Decorated in miles of majestic mountains, lush valleys, serene lakes and sprawling countryside, it’s little wonder that these Lake District walks are so popular.
An immerseive experience that appeals to both nature lovers and adventurers alike, a trip to the Lakes promises a therapeutic escape from the hustle of daily life.
We’ve compiled a handy list of our favourite Lake District walks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or weekend rambler, there’s something for everyone. Continue reading to find out more…
Why go walking in the Lake District?
Walking in the Lake District is one of the many reasons this region has become one of the UK’s most sought-after holiday destinations.
Renowned for its spectacular landscapes, you’re spoilt for choice, with each step unveiling breathtaking views, rugged peaks, ancient woodlands and quintessental English villages.
Discover the natural beauty that has inspired literary icons such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter for centuries with these Lake District walks.
1. Catbells
If you’re looking for a relatively easy Lake District hike, the Catbells walk is the perfect choice.
A short, steep path begins its ascent from the Hawes End Landing Stage, before zigzagging up Skelgill Bank. There’s a brief scrambling section over the bank before the path continues to climb to the top.
With an elevation of 1,480 feet, hikers are rewarded with views across Keswick, Derwentwater and Borrowdale from it’s summit.
For an in-depth look into this popular trail, give our guide to the Catbells walk a read.
Distance: 5.6km
Time: 3 hours
Starting Point: Keswick Rugby Club Car Park
Route Details: Keswick Launch to Catbells Route
2. Scafell Pike
If you prefer hiking in the Lake District, Scafell Pike is an unparralleled adventure.
The highest peak in England, sitting at 978 metres tall, climbing Scafell Pike is not for the faint of heart.
The Wasdale Route is the most popular, typically the route chosen for those completeing the National Three Peak Challenge.
An almost vertical climb, the route begins at the Wasdale National Trust Car Park, following a steep footpath alongside Lingmell Gill, Hollow Stones and Lingmell Col.
A challenging ascent, climbers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding fells, lakes and valleys from the summit. Not only that, there’s plenty of incredible sights to see along the way.
What are you waiting for? Lace up your walking boots and get take on the challenge of this popular Lake District hike!
Distance: 12.8km
Time: 6-7 hours
Starting Point: Wasdale Head Car Park
Route Details: Scafell Pike Corridor Route
3. The Old Man of Coniston
Next up on our list of the best walks in the Lake District is one of the region’s most popular places to visit.
There are several routes leading to the summit of The Old Man of Coniston, typically taking between 2-6 hours to complete.
The most direct route begins in the village of Coniston, climbing uphill into The Coppermines Conservation Area. From here, continue on until you pass the old slate quarry and eventually arrive at the awe-inspiring tarn of Low Water.
The trail zigzags up the face of the fell until reaching the summit, with far-reaching views across Coniston Water visable from the top.
Distance: 9.1km
Time: 3 hours
Starting Point: Ruskin Avenue Car Park
Route Details: Coniston Village Route
4. Fell Foot Circular Heritage Trail
Nestled along on the shores of Lake Windermere, Fell Foot Park is a magical choice for an accessible Lake District walk.
The circular trail at Fell Foot Park provides a peaceful escape for walkers in the heart of the Lakes.
A level path meanders through vibrant meadows and lush woodland, unveiling heritage features along the way including Fell Foot House.
Afterwards, refuel at The Boathouse Cafe, or bring your own picnic and enjoy a spot of alfresco dining with a view.
Distance: 2.6km
Time: 1 hour
Starting Point: Fell Foot Car Park
Route Details: Fell Foot Circular Heritage Trail Route
5. Latrigg Fell
Rising gracefully to an elevation of 368 metres, Latrigg Fell is an incredible walking experience for nature enthusiasts.
An accessible Lake District walk, the trail to the summit is well-maintained, ensuring easy navigation for those with varying levels of fitness.
There are several routes to the top of Latrigg Fell, with the most popular trail beginning in the heart of Keswick. Cross the footbridge from Fitz Park to join the trail along Spooney Green Lane and Brundholme Road.
Proceed to Gale Road Car Park, conveniently located at the base of Latrigg, where a well-marked path ascends the fell.
A vibrant trail of flora and fauna lead the way, and there are far-reaching views across Keswick, Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains visibile from the summit.
A moderately easy hike, we’d recommend Latrigg Fell to beginners, little ones and four-legged friends.
Distance: 5km
Time: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Fitz Park, Keswick
Route Details: Latrigg from Keswick Route
6. Skiddaw
With various routes leading to its summit, Skiddaw is an excellent choice for first-time mountain climbers.
The Jenkin Hill path is considered the mountains easiest route, with a wide, well-trodden path leading to the summit ridge.
Referred to as the “tourist trail”, the route is a gradual ascent, making it accessible to hikers with a range of different abilities.
Experienced fell walkers may prefer the route via Ullock Pike. A quieter approach, this route conquers two of the Lake Districts famous Wainwrights along the way. While the route isn’t too challenging, the path can be rocky and uneven in places.
Whichever route you choose, the summit of Skiddaw offers panoramic views of the surrounding Lake District landscape.
Distance: 16.8km
Time: 6-7 hours
Starting Point: Keswick Town Centre
Route Details: Jenkin Hill Route
7. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge Walk
A popular Miles Without Stiles route, the Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge walk is a wonderful way to enjoy the scenic landscape of the charming Lake District countryside.
A two and a half mile linear walk, the path leads along the shores of Elter Water, meandering through open fields and towering woodland before reaching the iconic Skelwith Bridge.
The soothing sound of Skelwith Force cascading into the River Brathay provides a magical soundtrack to your adventure.
Arguably one of the best walks in the Lake District, the trail is relatively flat and well-marked, and offers visitors a moment of peace and tranquility.
Distance: 4 km
Time: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Elterwater National Trust Car Park
Route Details: Miles Without Stiles 11
8. Helvellyn via Striding Edge
Sitting at a straggering 950 metres tall, Helvellyn is the third-highest peak in England. Offering a thrilling experience to hikers, the route via Striding Edge is an exhilarating way to reach the summit. Please keep in mind that this Lake District hike is not for the faint of heart.
The route begins in the nearby village of Glenridding, following a path alongside Mires Beck before reaching the base of the iconic Striding Edge ridge.
A Grade 1 scramble, Striding Edge is often described as knife-like due to the narrow and sharp apperance of the ridge, characterized by steep drops on either side.
Hiking along Striding Edge is a challenging ascent and requires careful navagation, however rewards thrill-seekeres with breathtaking views on either side.
Once at the top, the summit showcases jaw-dropping views across Red Tarn, Thirlmere and as far as The Solway Firth on exceptionally clear days.
The Helvellyn horseshoe descends the mountain along Swirral Edge. Considered easier than Striding Edge, you can still expect a scramble before retracing your steps back to Glenridding.
Distance: 13 km
Time: 5-6 hours
Starting Point: Glenridding Town Centre
Route Details: Helvellyn via Striding Edge
9. Loughrigg Fell
Next up on our list of the best Lake District walks is Loughrigg Fell. Idylically positioned on the outskirts of Ambleside, Loughrigg Fell offers a relatively easy ascent, right in the heart of the Lake District.
Rising gracefully to 335 metres, the Loughrigg Fell walk is ideal for those looking for a leisurely stroll. There is plenty to see along the way, including rocky outcrops, open meadows and towering woodland.
A network of trails lead to the summit, with the most popular starting in the centre of Ambleside. From here, follow a well-marked path over Skelwith Bridge, alongside Loughrigg Tarn and toward the summit of Loughrigg Fell.
An unrivalled viewpoint reveals itself at the top, with breathtaking views encompassing Grasmere, Windermere, and the surrounding fells.
The descent is just as magical, following the Loughrigg Terrace and onto a path leading to Rydal Cave. Why not give it an explore on your way down?
Distance: 10.4 km
Time: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Ambleside Town Centre
Route Details: Loughrigg Fell from Ambleside
10. Jenkin Crag
Sitting on the outskirts of Ambleside, Jenkin Crag stands at approx 150 meters tall. A relatively gentle ascent, this easy Lake District walk invites hikers of all abilities.
A picturesque walk, the trail begins near Hayes Garden Centre, Ambleside and heads up Skelghyll Lane towards Skelghyll wood.
Passing through woodland until you reach the signs pointing to Jenkin Crag. A short well-defined trail gradually ascends to the viewpoint, offering jaw-dropping views across the glistening waters of Lake Windermere. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual saunter, Jenkin Crag is a delightful spot to while away a few hours.
If you’re feeling energetic, continue on the path through Skelghyll wood and it will lead you around to Hundreds Road and up towards the summit of Wansfell Pike standing at 482 metres tall.
Distance: 8.4 km
Time: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Ambleside Town Centre
Route Details: Wansfell via Jenkins Crag
11. Brant Fell
The last Lake District walk to make our list, Brant Fell is easily one of our favourites.
Idyllically positioned on the outskirts of Bowness-on-Windermere, Brant Fell offers a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of this popular tourist hotspot.
The Brant Fell walk begins in the heart of Bowness, climbing Brantfell Road. The final stretch of the Dales Way, you’ll pass the official finishing pub, The Royal Oak, along the way.
Continue climbing until you reach a public footpath, where you’ll turn right at the crossroads and enter a wooded area. You’ll pass Post Knott viewpoint before reaching a rocky trail leading to the top of Brant Fell.
The remains of a Victorian viewing station marks the summit, rewarding climbers with panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells.
Distance: 3.2 km
Time: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Bowness-on-Windermere Town Centre
Route Details: Brant Fell from Bowness-on-Windermere
Fancy embarking on an adventure along one of these Lake District walks for yourself? Book one of these lodges in Cumbria and start planning your walking holiday today!
Looking for somewhere to head for refreshments at the end of each day? Read our handy guide on the best Lake District pubs.
For more exciting ways to spend your time, give our guide on things to do in the Lake District a read.
*** Important note: Please check the weather conditions before you set out as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, pick the best route for your capabilities, pack extra layers, map, compass, food and drink. Be safe!
Images courtesy of: Alex Berger – (CC BY-NC 2.0 DEED); Rick Harrison – (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED); Mark Horrell – (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED); Robert J Heath – (CC BY 2.0 DEED); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED); Alan O’Dowd – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED); G Laird – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED); Alan O’Dowd – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED); Peter S – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED); Karl and Ali – (CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED);
