Best walks in the Lake District
The Lake District is a utopia for walkers and nature enthusiasts. If you're planning a stay at our Lakeland Leisure Park and love walking, then you’ve made the right choice.
Within driving distance of the holiday park are an array of breathtaking walks that cater to all levels of hiker, from gentle lakeside ambles to challenging mountain ascents. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best walks in the Lake District, highlighting the distance and difficulty level of each, to help you make the most of your holiday in this stunning region.
Scafell Pike
Distance: 5 miles via the Corridor Route
Difficulty: challenging
The Scafell Pike hike is the ultimate challenge for serious walkers. The Corridor Route, while less technically demanding, is still a strenuous adventure that requires proper preparation and fitness—taking 3-4 hours. Reaching the summit of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, rewards you with unparalleled vistas and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Helm Crag - The Lion and the Lamb
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: moderate to challenging
The walk to Helm Crag provides a delightful blend of natural beauty and intriguing rock formations. The most popular route to the summit starts from the village of Grasmere. It’s four miles long and has an elevation gain of around 350m, so we're rating it “moderate to challenging”. Starting from Grasmere, this route takes you up Helm Crag, where you'll find the distinctive "Lion and the Lamb" rock formation. The views of Grasmere and the surrounding fells are well worth the effort.
Ullswater Way
Distance: 20 miles for the full circuit
Difficulty: moderate
The Ullswater Way is an extensive circular trail that encompasses an entire lake, offering varied terrain, charming villages, and awe-inspiring lake views. While the full circuit is a substantial undertaking, you can and should choose shorter sections based on your preferences and fitness level. It's a delightful way to explore the diverse landscapes of Ullswater and its surroundings.
Coniston Old Man
Distance: approximately 7 miles
Difficulty: challenging
For a more demanding hike that takes you to one of the Lake District's iconic peaks, consider Coniston Old Man. The route from Coniston village to the summit involves steep ascents and rocky terrain, making it suitable for experienced hikers. Once at the top, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Lake District's highest peaks and Coniston Water below.
Orrest Head
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: moderate
The hike up Orrest Head is both rewarding and relatively easy. This short climb offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the Langdale Pikes, and surrounding fells. It's a fantastic spot for a picnic or to simply soak in the natural beauty of the Lake District.
The Buttermere Circuit
Distance: approximately 4 miles
Difficulty: easy to moderate
The Buttermere Circular Walk offers a gentle stroll around one of the Lake District's most picturesque lakes. Starting and ending in the village of Buttermere, this easy to moderate walk provides stunning views of the lake, lush valleys, and surrounding peaks. It's a great option for families and those seeking a more relaxed walk as the path is very flat.
Tarn Hows Circular Walk
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: easy
The Tarn Hows Circular Walk near Coniston is a tranquil and family-friendly stroll. This short, flat circuit takes you around the idyllic Tarn Hows, a man-made lake surrounded by lush woodlands and picturesque countryside. It's an excellent choice for a peaceful afternoon walk or a picnic by the water.
Aira Force Waterfall Walk
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: easy
The Aira Force Waterfall Walk near Ullswater is a family-friendly stroll through enchanting woodlands. This easy walk takes you past a series of cascading waterfalls, culminating in the impressive Aira Force waterfall. The trail is mostly level, making it accessible to visitors of all ages.
Wansfell Pike
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: moderate
Wansfell Pike offers a fantastic hike with panoramic views of Lake Windermere, Ambleside, and the surrounding fells. Beginning in Ambleside, the moderately challenging trail takes you up Wansfell Pike, which stands at 1,581 feet. It's a great option for those seeking a rewarding hike with relatively manageable terrain.
Borrowdale Circular
Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty: moderate
The Borrowdale Circular is a delightful longer walk that takes you through the charming Borrowdale Valley. Starting in Rosthwaite, this moderate-level hike offers a mix of woodlands, riverside paths, and open countryside. You'll can also explore the quaint village of Grange and take in the beauty of Derwentwater.
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