Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Peaks to Bag

Sure, ticking off the big-name summits like Snowdon, Scafell Pike, and Ben Nevis is an amazing achievement.

But sometimes, the real magic?

It happens on the quieter summits — where it’s just you, your boots, a lonely cairn, and endless horizons.

The UK is packed with hidden peaks that offer all the drama, views, and adventure of the famous spots — without the crowds.

Here’s your ultimate guide to lesser-known peaks that deserve a spot on your bucket list.

‍

🏔️ 1. Rhinog Fawr

Location: Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Height: 720 metres (2,362 feet)
Walk Time: 4–5 hours round trip
Terrain: Rugged, rocky paths; rough underfoot with occasional bogs
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The Rhinogydd range is Snowdonia’s wild west — raw, remote, and rarely busy. Rhinog Fawr delivers proper wilderness vibes with towering crags and sweeping views across the Irish Sea.
Top Tip: Take a detailed map and compass — paths are vague in places, and GPS signal isn’t guaranteed!

🏔️ 2. Binsey

Location: Northern Fells, Lake District
Height: 447 metres (1,467 feet)
Walk Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Gentle grassy slopes and wide tracks
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Tiny in height but mighty in scenery, Binsey offers full-on panoramas over Bassenthwaite Lake and the Solway Firth. A brilliant quick win if you’re short on time but craving a summit buzz.
Top Tip: Go for sunset — it’s one of the best spots in the Lakes for a fiery evening sky.

🏔️ 3. Ben Vrackie

Location: Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands
Height: 841 metres (2,759 feet)
Walk Time: 3.5–4 hours
Terrain: Good paths, stone steps, gentle climb turning steeper toward the summit
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Ben Vrackie offers the “big mountain” feeling without needing a hardcore expedition. Plus, it’s super accessible — you can walk straight from the town centre of Pitlochry!
Top Tip: Look out for red deer and mountain hares along the way.

🏔️ 4. Arenig Fawr

Location: Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Height: 854 metres (2,802 feet)
Walk Time: 4–5 hours
Terrain: Open moorland, faint paths, occasional bogs
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Arenig Fawr feels completely cut off from civilisation. The summit rewards you with jaw-dropping views stretching across Snowdonia and out toward the sea — with barely another soul in sight.
Top Tip: Wet underfoot year-round — waterproof boots and gaiters are non-negotiable.

🏔️ 5. Harter Fell (Eskdale)

Location: Lake District, England
Height: 653 metres (2,142 feet)
Walk Time: 3–4 hours
Terrain: Steady trails through forests, opening onto rocky slopes
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Nestled between the Eskdale and Duddon valleys, Harter Fell offers stunning, rugged views over some of the Lakes’ quieter valleys. It’s a “real mountain” feel without the chaos of the more famous fells.
Top Tip: Eskdale is also home to the beautiful Stanley Ghyll Waterfall — perfect bonus detour after your climb.

🏔️ 6. Creag Dhubh

Location: Newtonmore, Cairngorms National Park
Height: 756 metres (2,480 feet)
Walk Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Terrain: Forest paths leading onto open heather and grassy slopes
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Creag Dhubh is often overshadowed by the massive Cairngorm summits — but it’s a brilliant day hike with fantastic views across the Spey Valley and Monadhliath Mountains.
Top Tip: Visit in autumn for incredible gold and orange colours across the landscape.

🏔️ 7. The Cheviot

Location: Northumberland National Park, England
Height: 815 metres (2,674 feet)
Walk Time: 3.5–4.5 hours
Terrain: Flagstone paths over peaty moorland
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The highest point in Northumberland — yet almost eerily quiet. It’s a broad, gentle summit reached via long moorland walks, perfect for those who love wild open spaces.
Top Tip: Pack layers — it can be very windy at the top, even on calm days.

Quick Recap: What to Pack for Hidden Gem Hiking

Remember: quiet = often remote. You’ll need to be extra prepared when hiking lesser-known peaks:

OS map and compass (and know how to use them)
Fully charged phone + offline map backup
Plenty of food and at least 2L water
Sturdy waterproof boots
Waterproof jacket and spare warm layers
First aid kit, whistle, and emergency bivvy or foil blanket

Trail Tip: Tell someone where you’re going — mobile signal can be patchy on these quieter peaks.

‍

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to stand in a queue on Snowdon to have a summit adventure.

Hidden gems like Rhinog Fawr, Arenig Fawr, and Creag Dhubh show that some of the UK’s best hiking experiences happen far from the Instagram hotspots.

Pick a new peak from this list for your next trip — and discover a whole different side of the hills.

‍

Photo credit: Eilis Garvey