Idyllically positioned close to the shores of the largest lake in England, there’s countless Windermere walks to follow.
Offering something to suit all abilities and showcasing unrivalled views along the way, there’s no better way to experience this iconic Lake District landmark.
We’ve handpicked our favourite Windermere walks and compiled them into a handy list. Continue reading to find out more…
1. Queen Adelaide’s Hill
Overlooking the glistening waters of Lake Windermere, Queen Adelaide’s Hill is a relatively short walk near Windermere. Formerly Rayrigg Bank, the hill was renamed Queen Adelaide’s Hill after her visit in 1840.
Conveniently located at the foot of the hill, the Rayrigg Meadow Car Park makes an easy starting position for this Windermere walk. Spaces are limited and charges apply.
A steep rocky footpath leads directly from the car park, climbing steeply up the side of the hill. From the top, climbers are rewarded with spectacular views across the lake towards the fells beyond.
For a more leisurely ascent, exit the car park and walk alongside the A592, keeping the road on your righthand side. You’ll eventually reach a National Trust signpost leading to a well-trodden path.
Access the pathway through a wooden gate and enjoy a scenic stroll to the top. If you’re looking for a Lake District walk for beginners, we’d highly recommend this route to the top of Queen Adelaide’s Hill.
2. Fell Foot National Trust Park
Maintained by the National Trust, this picturesque park sits on the shores of Lake Windermere, across the water from Lakeside Pier.
Owing to its lakeside location, this family-friendly park is magical spot to enjoy a walk around Windermere. There’s plenty of space for little ones and four legged friends to roam free, along with a range of footpaths leading through the park.
The circular heritage trail is amongst the most popular walking routes. Stretching nearly two miles, this scenic trail takes in the colourful meadows and Pinetum before looping back to The Boathouse Café.
Please be mindful that there may be loose terrain underfoot that may not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Away from dry land, you can even try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking or a spot of open water swimming. There are even on-site facilities to help freshen up at the end of an action-packed day.
3. Windermere to Bowness Walk
Within easy touring distance, the walk to Bowness from Windermere is a must whilst you’re in the area! The route is about a mile and a half in length, following Lake Road from end to end.
This walk from Windermere runs downhill, gently descending until reaching Bowness. Once in Bowness, the descent is relatively steep towards the shores of Lake Windermere.
A vibrant selection of pubs, cafes and boutiques decorate both highstreets, making for interesting pit stops along the way.
We’d recommend fueling your walk with a visit to Homeground Coffee + Kitchen for breakfast, whilst a visit to The Lake View in Bowness is idyllic for an afternoon tipple.
Make the most of your lakeside location and set sail on a motorboat, or extend your journey from the safety of dry land by following the picturesque lakeside trail to Cockshott Point.
The return to Windermere through Bowness is steep, and you might need to take a few breathers along the way! Once you reach the top of the town, enjoy a leisurely stroll back to Windermere.
4. Orrest Head
Part of the Lake District National Parks ‘miles without stiles’ routes, the Orrest Head trail is suitable for those of all abilities.
A popular walk near Windemere, this 3.5km walk begins close to the Windermere Hotel, where the footpath is signposted. The route passes through Elleray Wood along the way, with some particular steep sections in places.
Blue signs direct climbers to the accessible route, where all-terrain-scooters can reach the summit. For the avid climbers, red waymarked footpaths deviate from the main path, offering a more challenging pursuit.
Upon reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views across the rural greenery of the Lake District. Sitting at 238m tall, a handy collection of metalwork benches provides a lovely spot to enjoy a well-deserved break as you soak in the scenery.
On your descent, retrace your steps and conclude the walk back in Windermere. You can find full details of this much-loved Windermere walking route here.
5. Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall
A short but sweet walk near Windermere, the climb to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall is a rewarding one. The walk begins in the heart of Ambleside, leading off Rydal Road before gradually climbing Stock Ghyll Lane.
Signposts direct walkers to the waterfalls, eventually reaching the first of a series of falls. Idyllically positioned amongst the woodland, you’re in the perfect spot to catch a photo for Instagram.
Continue uphill through the wood, soaking in the peaceful scenery along the way. A viewpoint juts out further along, with lovelocks decorating the fencing.
Wooden steps wind their way up to the top of the falls, where a small bridge crosses the white waters. Will you be brave enough to look down?
The sound of water makes for a truly enchanting backdrop to pause for a moment and take in the natural beauty of this 70ft waterfall. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, retrace your steps and venture into the heart of Ambleside.
6. School Knott Fell Walk
This Windermere walk begins in the centre of the town, a stone’s throw from the railway station. Roughly two miles in length, this one is ideal if you’re looking for a quick exploration.
A circular walk, the route travels from Droomer Lane, following a well-trodden path trailing alongside a stone wall. Cross Mill Beck Close and re-join the trail, following the peaceful woodland toward the incline of the fell.
Sitting at 760 feet, be mindful that there are some steep climbs to reach the summit, however the views are especially rewarding. Overlooking Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, there’s no better place to take in the spectacular scenery of Windermere.
Famed fell walker, Alfred Wainwright, describes this walk in Windermere in his book ‘The Outlying Fells of Lakeland’. He recommends extending the adventure, heading east until you reach School Knott Tarn.
If you’re up for the challenge, summit Grandsire, standing at 818ft, before returning to Windermere.
Tempted to dig out your walking boots and start exploring along one of these Windermere walks? Browse this wonderful range of Windermere lodges and find yourself within easy reach of these facinating trails!
And for more inspriation on things to do whilst you’re here, give our helpful guide to the shops in Windermere a read!
If you’re looking for somewhere else to explore, read our handy guide on 11 of the best Lake District walks.
Images courtesy of: David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Diamond Geezer – (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0);
