There is a particular quiet in the fells before nine. The paths are empty, the lakes are flat and the light arrives sideways, picking out every wall and wet leaf. We would trade a lie-in for it more often than we admit.
These are the five walks we send guests on when they ask for something that rewards an early start. All are within an easy drive of the house, and none needs more than a good pair of boots and a flask.
1. Catbells, above Derwentwater
A short, steady climb with a view out of all proportion to the effort. Go at first light and you may have the summit to yourself, with the lake spread below you like poured pewter.
2. Orrest Head, above Windermere
Barely an hour up and down, and one of the best first walks in the Lakes. Take a flask and sit for a while at the top.
The paths are empty, the lakes are flat and the light arrives sideways.
3. Loughrigg Terrace, near Grasmere
A gentle shelf of a path with a wide view over Grasmere. Walk it in the early light, then walk down for breakfast in the village.
4. Tarn Hows, around the tarn
Level, easy and beautiful in the low light. The woods hold the mist longer than the open fell, and the tarn often lies perfectly still.
5. Latrigg, above Keswick
A broad, forgiving path to a summit with a huge view of Skiddaw and the lake. It is a good one for tired legs.
As ever, check the forecast, carry a map and tell someone where you are going. The fells will still be there tomorrow. Breakfast, in our dining room, finishes at ten.
