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Lake District hikes, England

Lake District Walks

Lake District walks are an incredible pastime that will transport you to a magical world filled with breathtaking scenery, so it is easy to see why they are some of the most popular activities for outdoor enthusiasts in the UK. If you are after an unforgettable adventure in some of the wildest landscapes England has to offer, be sure to add a number of Lake District walks to your upcoming itinerary.

England’s Lake District offers one of the finest natural spectacles in the country, covering over 2300 square kilometers of truly gorgeous scenery. With its rugged fells, pristine lakes, green rolling countryside and jaw-dropping views, this north-west corner of the United Kingdom is one of the country’s most popular destinations. A walking holiday in the Lake District is a bucket list activity, and one that every keen hiker should experience at least once.

The Lake District is well known for its literary associations, and writers and artists from Beatrix Potter to William Wordsworth have taken inspiration from its bucolic landscapes. Lake District walks will see you follow in the footsteps of Samuel Coleridge and John Ruskin, or hunt for ancient Roman roads that pass along the mountain ridges. This natural paradise has a long, rich and fascinating history, and a walking trip is the perfect opportunity to learn about the local culture.

The main draw, however, is the landscape itself. There’s something magical about the way the light plays on the surface of lakes such as Windermere or Buttermere, and the scent of the mountain air as you summit the pikes, crags, and ridges of the Western Fells. For centuries, Lake District walks have helped visitors fall in love with this remarkable region, and we’re confident that you will too.

To give you a little inspiration for your next trip, we’ve put together a list of our favorite walks in the Lake District. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg – there’s so much to discover in this quintessential English national park.

Visiting Lake District in 2024

England’s Lake District is introducing several exciting activities and exhibitions in 2024. For those interested in outdoor challenges, the Lake District Ultra Challenge on June 8th offers various distances, from a scenic 10 km loop around Ambleside to a demanding 100 km route starting in Kendal. This event is ideal for both seasoned runners and those new to endurance events​.

Additionally, In 2024, the Lake District is focusing on several significant infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing both the area's sustainability and accessibility. A key development is the Windermere Gateway project, which includes upgrading transport infrastructure with a focus on sustainable transport options like improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

The 10 Best Walks In The Lake District National Park

The Lake District may be compact, but there’s a tremendous amount of variety in the terrain that covers this small area in the north west of England. As a result, there’s a little something for everyone here, from easy valley walks to grueling scrambles over rocky, windswept peaks.

If you’re looking for easy, family-friendly walks in the Lake District, you’re in luck. This region is packed with beautiful trails that won’t take too much of a toll on your legs and lungs, allowing you to experience some truly stunning views without breaking a sweat. These Lake District walks are ideal for families with young children, and offer a good way to introduce kids to fell walking from a young age.

The Lake District also contains many moderate hikes that make a useful training ground for walkers who want to improve their fitness. You’ll find long day hikes over wild fells, or steep scrambles up to craggy peaks. Whatever your fitness level or ability, you’re sure to find a walk that will suit you.

  • Rannerdale Knotts Walk: Buttermere is one of the finest lakes in the region, with calm, peaceful waters reflecting the peaks of Haystacks and Red Pike. This fairly easy walk takes you from the village of Buttermere along a ridge that leads all the way to Rannerdale Knotts. You’ll enjoy wonderful views, and can look forward to a tasty lunch in the village at the end of the walk.
  • Langstrath Valley Walk: This low-level walk to the hidden Langstrath Valley is a family favorite that kids are sure to love! The valley itself is simply stunning, and the route takes you along a meandering path, close to a pleasant gurgling stream. This easy walk is suitable for families with children of all ages, and is an excellent way to introduce kids to the delights of walking in the Lake District.
  • Old Man of Coniston Circuit: The Old Man of Coniston is one of the most iconic peaks in the Lake District, and this circular route is rightly one of the most popular walks in the park. Make sure that you leave a full day to really enjoy the route, which passes by peaceful tarns and offers fabulous views over the hills and fells. Instead of descending the way you came after summiting the Old Man, we’d recommend this circular route, which will allow you to tick a few more peaks off your Lake District hiking bucket list!
  • Newlands Horseshoe Walk: The Newlands Horseshoe is one of the more challenging walks in the Lake District, but this route remains a firm favorite among hikers. There’s a steep climb, and you may need to do a little scrambling, but the ridge walk is simply spectacular. This route also takes in Catbells, which offers a remarkable view over the mountains and lakes that this region is so famous for.
  • Helvellyn Walk: Arguably the best walk in the Lake District, the ascent of Helvellyn via Striding Edge is a real bucket list hike. This dramatic ridge towers over the beautiful Red Tarn, offering fabulous views over Glenridding and Ullswater. Striding Edge is not for the faint of heart, and you might need to use your hands as you scramble to the top, but we think it’s one of the most rewarding hikes in the Lake District.
  • Fairfield Horseshoe Walk: The Fairfield Horseshoe is ideally located right next to the village of Ambleside, making it one of the more accessible, challenging hikes in the Lake District. This is a fairly long, strenuous hike, but once you’ve made it on to the ridge, the views make all the effort worthwhile. This Lake District walk is a real classic.
  • Haystacks Walk: Alfred Wainwright, the Lake District’s most famous rambler, is said to have favored Haystacks above all the region’s peaks. This route takes you up via Scarth Gap, covered in bluebells in springtime, all the way up to the stunning Innominate Tarn, where Wainwright’s ashes were scattered at his request. It’s a fitting resting-place for a man who loved these hills so much. Haystacks may not be the tallest mountain in the Lake District, but it’s certainly one of our favorite walks in the region.
  • Scafell Pike Walk: At 978 meters above sea level, Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, and should be on everyone’s hiking bucket list! This route goes via Ill Crag, making for a more enjoyable and interesting walk than the direct route straight to the top. You’ll pass by some classic Lake District scenery, with glassy tarns, craggy mountain passes, and dramatic, sweeping views.
  • Roman High Street Circular Walk: As far back as antiquity, people have been using the Lake District peaks as highways, and its most famous Roman road passes along the crest of a hill now known as High Street. This circular route will take you into a pristine, untouched valley, passing by Angle Tarn and Thornthwaite Crag. You’ll enjoy spectacular views over Windermere and the surrounding peaks, and it’s easy to imagine that you’re stepping back in time to a period when this would have been one of the most important highways in the north of England.
  • Mosedale Horseshoe Walk: The Mosedale Horseshoe is a challenging walk through some of the most beautiful scenery that England has to offer. It’s located in a fairly remote corner of the Lake District, meaning that you’re less likely to be bothered by the crowds, and the drive to the starting point of the walk is a pleasure in itself! The summit of Black Crag makes all the effort worthwhile, and you can enjoy a refreshing pint at the Wasdale Head Inn at the end of your walk.

When Is The Best Time To Walk In The Lake District?

It’s possible to go walking in the Lake District at any time of year, and there are plenty of low-level, accessible trails that you can walk along, whatever the weather! In the winter months the higher peaks can be cold, covered in ice, and foggy, so take care not to attempt challenging peaks in bad weather. Nevertheless, a bracing winter walk in the Lakes can be a very rewarding experience, and there’s nothing better than curling up next to the fire in a country pub after a day out on the wild, blustery fells.

The fell-walking season runs from April to October, and the region can get very busy and crowded in the summer months. Although the weather is spectacular, the roads and towns are packed with tourists, and you may find yourself jostling for space on some of the more popular trails. As a result, we’d recommend visiting in spring or autumn, just before the season kicks in, or after most of the visitors have gone home. You’ll enjoy beautiful flowers in springtime, and rich autumn colors in the fall, and the trails will be much less crowded. Whatever time of year you choose, the weather in the Lake District can be unpredictable, so come prepared, and always check the latest forecasts before you head out on to the trail. Even still, you should always be able to find a few Lake District walks to meet your needs, no matter the time of year!

Best Regions For Walking In The Lake District

Most visitors to the Lake District flock to the region around Windermere and Ambleside, where there are plenty of activities on offer and facilities for tourists. This part of the Lake District offers some fantastic walking trails, but can be very crowded in the peak season. For a quieter experience, we’d recommend heading to the Western Lakes, and the area around Eskdale and Wasdale Head. You’ll find stunning lakes, green rolling hills, and wild fells, and plenty of fantastic walking opportunities. The northern part of the region, close to Keswick, also offers some wonderful hiking trails, including the picturesque peaks around Buttermere.

Other Outdoor Activities in The Lake District

The Lake District is a paradise for adventure travelers, with plenty of exciting outdoor activities on offer in addition to walking. Cycling and mountain biking is a popular sport in the Lakes, with many designated trails suitable for bikes. The abundant lakes and tarns across the region provide many opportunities for watersports, including kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and paddle-boarding. If you’re even more adventurous, why not try your hand at ghyll scrambling, rock climbing, or abseiling?

How To Plan A Trip To The Lake District

A walking holiday in the Lake District is a bucket list experience for most enthusiastic hikers, and there’s plenty to discover in this beautiful part of the United Kingdom. To make sure your trip runs perfectly, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to planning a trip to the Lake District, complete with tips on where to stay, advice on packing the right gear, and recommendations for the best hikes in the park. Grab your walking boots and follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright as you scale some of the most beautiful peaks in the country on any number of amazing Lake District walks!

Lake District Adventure Holidays

Some of the best experiences in the Lake District are better with a guide or when they're planned by professionals. For that, you can check out the best adventure tours in the Northern England.

Frequently-Asked-Questions About The Lake District

Where should I stay in the Lake District for hiking?

The Lake District is one of the most popular destinations in the United Kingdom, especially for outdoor activities, and you’ll find plenty of accommodation options throughout the region. If you’re travelling by public transport, aim to stay in one of the popular hubs such as Ambleside, where you’ll find trails that start in the town itself, and good bus connections to other trailheads. However, if you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet head for the Western Lakes, away from the main tourist trail, with good access to the fantastic walking routes around Eskdale. You’ll find upmarket country hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, self-catering rentals, hostels and campsites all over the national park, so you’re sure to find something suitable, wherever you plan to hike.

Can you walk all around Lake Windermere?

Windermere is England’s largest natural lake, more than 11 miles long, nestled in some of the prettiest scenery in the Lake District. The 45-mile Windermere Way is a hiking trail that loops all the way around the lake, taking in the summits of Wansfell, Loughrigg Fell and Gummer’s How, in addition to the popular towns of Ambleside and Windermere.

Do you need hiking boots for the Lake District?

Although the walking routes in the Lake District are well maintained, you will still need a sturdy pair of hiking shoes to protect your feet and ankles out on the trail. Waterproof footwear is a must as the trails can often be wet and muddy (don’t forget to bring a spare pair of socks!).

Is the Lake District free?

There is no charge to enter the Lake District, and all of the walking trails are free to access at all times.

Can you camp anywhere in the Lake District?

In order to camp in the Lake District, you must have permission from the landowner. However, there is a long tradition of wild camping in the Lake District, and if you ensure that you make camp above the highest fell wall, away from villages and settlements, and apply the principles of Leave No Trace, it’s possible to camp in the Lake District.

Do you need a car in the Lake District?

The Lake District is well served by a network of local buses, so it’s perfectly possible to enjoy a walking holiday without a car. Some of the most popular trails leave right from the centre of Ambleside, and you can find bus connections to many other hiking routes in the region.

How many days do you need in the Lake District?

It’s possible to spend a year in the Lake District without uncovering all the wonderful places and walking routes in this gorgeous national park! However, if you only have a few days to spare, it’s still possible to enjoy many of the region’s highlights in just a few days, and it’s a popular spot for a short break. We’d recommend staying for at least three days so you can pack in at least two decent walks, and enjoy the marvellous views and scenery that this region is famous for.

Or check out all the best walking regions in the UK.

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Displaying 20 of 195 routes

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9.9 overall rating
Lake District

Helvellyn Walk

The Helvellyn walk is one of the classics in the beautiful Lake District. To complete this challenging walk, you will have to use your hands and to be comfortable with heights, but this route offers some of the best rewards in the Lakes. The ascent to Helvellyn will take you scrambling up the Striding Edge and to go down, you will descend the Swirral Edge. Helvellyn was named Britain's best walk in 2018!
Hard
13.6 km
842 m
4.5-6.5h
9.8 overall rating
Lake District

Fairfield Horseshoe

You can start this wonderful Fairfield Horseshoe walk right from Ambleside. Any day you can wake up and walk directly from your lodging to the trail is a great one! This wonderful route explores the peaks that surround the beautiful town of Ambleside and is a Lake District’s classic!
Hard
18.4 km
928 m
6-8h
9.7 overall rating
Lake District

Haystacks Walk

The Haystacks Walk is a true gem of the Lake District and has a unique feel compared to most of the other walks in the area. While out on this beautifully scenic route, you will be exposed to views across the rugged terrain of surrounding mountains, Buttermere, and the nearby Honister Pass, which makes for a memorable afternoon on the trails. It is noted as one of the favourite places for Lakes pioneer Alfred Wainwright.
Moderate
8.1 km
505 m
3-4h
9.9 overall rating
Lake District

Scafell Pike Walk

The wonderful Scafell Pike walk takes you to the highest peak in England and is much prettier and more interesting than the quicker route from Wasdale Head. This walk allows you to conquer England's highest mountain while enjoying breathtaking views of the Lake District.
Hard
15.2 km
896 m
5-7h
9.9 overall rating
Lake District

Newlands Horseshoe

This is a wonderful walk close to Keswick. With spectacular views all along the route, especially the end walking down from Catbells, we love this hike!
Very Hard
17.3 km
992 m
6-8h
No Ratings
Lake District

Easedale Tarn Walk

The Easedale Tarn Round is a 4.7mi walking route in Cumbria that will take you through the rolling terrain of the Lake District to reach Easedale Tarn. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the picturesque countryside by crossing open fields and charming bridges, experience cascading waterfalls, and receive views across the calm waters of the tarn. This route features easy-to-navigate terrain and breathtaking views, making it suitable for walkers of all ages and skill levels.
Moderate
7.6 km
436 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Lowther Castle Circular Walk

The Lowther Castle Circular Walk is a perfect family-friendly adventure in the Lake District that will allow you to explore the grounds surrounding this historic country house. The trail sets out from the castle and passes through the picturesque countryside to arrive at the relaxing edge of the River Lowther. Made up of easy to navigate walkways through fairly flat terrain, this trail is perfectly suited for walkers of every skill level, particularly those with historical interests.
Easy
5.1 km
132 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Lake District

Honister Pass Circular Walk

The Honister Pass Circular Walk is a rugged adventure in the Lake District that will take you on a long climb through the pass before circling around Fleetwith Pike and Black Star. The route features some dramatic scenery, including the imposing sight of Fleetwith Pike that dominates the landscape surrounding the pass and nearby Buttermere. There is a bit of rugged terrain along this walk, but the spectacular views across the undulating terrain are well worth the effort.
Moderate
13.4 km
794 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Loughrigg Fell Circular Walk

The Loughrigg Fell Circular is a 7.6mi walking circuit in the Lake District that will take you uphill along a rugged ridge for some amazing views across the Cumbria countryside. The trail sets out from Ambleside and takes you across the hilly terrain to summit the hill before skirting around the edge of Grasmere and Rydal Water to experience some beautiful scenery. Although the trail features some uphill walking to the summit, there are a series of steps that make the climb manageable for walkers of most skill levels.
Moderate
12.2 km
595 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Skiddaw

The walk up Skiddaw is an amazing journey that will take you up the steep mountainside to reach the summit viewpoint atop England’s 6th highest peak. Although it may sound daunting, the path is well-maintained and defined, making it a fairly easy adventure as far as summit walks go. Be sure to arrive early, as parking can be limited.
Moderate
10.0 km
656 m
3.5-5h
9.8 overall rating
Lake District

The Old Man of Coniston Walk

The Old Man of Coniston walk is a Lake District classic, offering fabulous views and a satisfying day out on the fells. There are many ways to conquer the Old Man, but whichever route you choose, you’ll enjoy splendid mountain tarns, sweeping valleys and quintessential Lake District scenery.
Hard
13.9 km
835 m
4.5-6.5h
9.8 overall rating
Lake District

Mosedale Horseshoe Walk

The Mosedale Horseshoe Walk is a stunning adventure in an isolated corner of the Lake District that is filled with rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and charming valleys. Thanks to the dramatic terrain here, the drive into the trailhead alone is worth the trip, nevermind the routeitself; however, the stunning scenery and the fine summits of Black Crag and Pillar make this hike a true joy.
Hard
16.6 km
923 m
5.5-7.5h
9.7 overall rating
Lake District

Langstrath Valley

The walk to the hidden Langstrath Valley is a favourite low-level walk in the Lake District. Get stunning views without the strenuous uphill the Lake District is famous for.
Easy
14.4 km
284 m
3.5-4.5h
9.8 overall rating
Lake District

Rannerdale Knotts

Rannerdale Knotts is a great day trip. The drive to Buttermere is exciting and once walking you get wonderful views throughout the walk.
Easy
6.3 km
259 m
2-2.5h
9.8 overall rating
Lake District

High Street Roman Road Walk

The High Street Roman Road Walk is a fine trail that takestrail you through an untouched valley then up to the summit of Thornthwaite Crag. From there, explore the wonderful views on a great walk along an ancient Roman Road to the stunning Angle Tarn.
Hard
16.4 km
754 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Lake District

Fleetwith Pike Circular Walk

The Fleetwith Pike Circular is a challenging but ultra-scenic walking route in the Lake District that will see you climb up a steep mountainside trail to reach the summit of Fleetwith Pike. While out on this trail, you will have a sweeping view across the mountainous landscape, including the deep blue waters of Buttermere to the northwest. This route is perfect for those walkers that are looking for a bit of a challenge and don’t mind a bit of basic route finding.
Moderate
9.7 km
821 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Tarn Hows Circular Walk

The Tarn Hows Circular is a scenic walking route in the Lake District that will take you through beautiful stretches of woodland terrain surrounding a picturesque tarn. While out on the trail, you will feel a sense of relaxation as you walk through the serene forests before climbing uphill to a viewpoint with spectacular views over the area. This walk is perfectly suited for a quiet waterside walk with scenery that the entire family will enjoy.
Moderate
5.6 km
241 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Helm Crag Circular Walk

The Helm Crag Circular Walk is a fun and at times rugged adventure in the Lake District that will take you to the summit nicknamed “The Lion and the Lamb” due to its unique rock formations. While out on the trail, you will walk through the village of Grasmere and traverse forest and farmland terrain before arriving at the summit for amazing views overlooking the Cumbria landscape. This is a great walk that features a good variety of terrain, making it suitable for a variety of walkers.
Moderate
7.7 km
441 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

Orrest Head Circular Walk

The Orrest Head Circular Walk is a fairly quick adventure in the Lake District that will take you uphill through the forest to the lookout point atop Orrest Head. While out on the trail, you will experience a relaxing woodland atmosphere before arriving at the summit for breathtaking views overlooking Windermere and the surrounding forests. This walk is made up of well-maintained and easy to navigate paths that are suitable for walkers or all ages.
Moderate
4.5 km
160 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Lake District

The Great Gable Round

The Great Gable Round is a spectacular Lake District walk that will take you on a steep uphill climb for some amazing views over the rugged landscape. The trail sets out from Seathwaite, following closely along several winding streams and passing by a waterfall before beginning the tough slog to the summit. You’ll likely get a bit of a leg burn on this challenging walk, but the gorgeous views are certainly worth the effort.
Hard
10.3 km
839 m
4-6h

1-20 of 195 routes

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