LAKE DISTRICT · WALKS · MAPS & GPX
Scenic Lake District walks for different abilities
Some of the best Lake District scenery is found on low-level lakeside paths; other viewpoints demand a full day in steep mountain terrain. This guide helps you choose a route that suits your ability and links to our dedicated walking pages, where you can find route descriptions, maps and GPX downloads.
Reviewed 11 November 2026. Walking grades are broad editorial guidance, not a substitute for checking the exact route, terrain and current conditions. Even relatively short walks may have slopes or rough ground.
Scenic lakeside and shorter walks
Choose these for rewarding views without spending the entire day on an exposed mountain. Their relative ease does not guarantee wheelchair or pushchair access.
1. Tarn Hows Circular
Broad difficulty: A gentle first choice
A mostly firm circular path around a scenic tarn. Expect some slopes and changeable surfaces; check the National Trust’s access advice.
View route, map & GPX Explore the area
2. Orrest Head from Windermere
Broad difficulty: Short fell walk
A rewarding viewpoint above Windermere without committing to a long day on high fells. The uphill approach still requires suitable footwear.
View route, map & GPX Explore the area
3. Buttermere Lake Circular
Broad difficulty: Low-level with rough patches
A favourite circuit for mountain reflections, shoreline woodland and views towards Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks. Paths may be wet and uneven; avoid assuming complete pushchair access.
Scenic hill walks with a climb
These routes reward the extra ascent with expansive views, but both involve sections that can be slippery or steep. Check the full route before deciding whether it suits your group.
4. Catbells Circular from Hawes End
Broad difficulty: Moderate hill walk
An iconic small fell with steep and rocky sections. It is not a level family stroll, and some sections can feel exposed in bad weather.
View route, map & GPX Explore the area
5. Loughrigg Fell Circular from Ambleside
Broad difficulty: Moderate with varied paths
A varied round through the Ambleside and Rydal landscape. Route choice affects length and steepness, so follow the dedicated map rather than a generic description.
High mountain walks for experienced hikers
These are serious mountain days where navigation, forecast, daylight and appropriate kit matter. Heights alone do not tell you how exposed or difficult a particular route will be.
6. Old Man of Coniston via Low Water
Broad difficulty: Strenuous mountain day
A demanding ascent from Coniston through former mining country to higher, rocky terrain. Requires navigation, layers and confidence on steep ground.
View route, map & GPX Explore the area
7. Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head
Broad difficulty: Very strenuous mountain day
The Wasdale route ascends through Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones. Steep rough terrain, poor visibility and sudden weather changes make it unsuitable for unprepared walkers.
View route, map & GPX Explore the area
8. Helvellyn via Striding Edge
Broad difficulty: Advanced / exposed
An exhilarating but hazardous route with exposed scrambling on Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. Only consider it with the appropriate experience and safe conditions; other approaches to Helvellyn are less exposed.
How to choose a Lake District walking route
| What matters | What to check |
|---|---|
| Ability and experience | Steepness, rough ground, scrambling, exposure and navigation |
| Weather and daylight | Mountain forecast, wind, rain, visibility and early darkness |
| Transport | Trailhead access, parking, buses and whether your walk is circular |
| Access and closures | Land-manager notices, path works and safe crossing points |
| GPX and maps | Use our GPX as a planning aid, not the only navigation method |
Check Lake District travel and weather alerts and the Met Office mountain forecast. Carry a reliable map and compass and know how to use them; a phone or GPX track is not a safe standalone navigation plan.
For more choices, browse our complete Routes & Trails directory, the eight stunning walks collection or the 50 highest Lake District fells.
Footwear and equipment
Choose footwear suited to the terrain and forecast. Mountain routes call for adequate layers, waterproofs, food, water, headtorch, navigation kit and an emergency plan. Our walking boot guide covers different options, but no product replaces route judgement or training.
Frequently asked questions
What is a scenic, easier Lake District walk?
Tarn Hows and the Buttermere lakeshore circuit offer attractive scenery at lower altitude; inspect surface and access information for your needs. Orrest Head is short but includes an uphill climb.
Is Catbells a beginner’s walk?
It is popular but has steep, rocky terrain, so it may be unsuitable for some beginners, younger children or anyone uneasy with heights.
Are Striding Edge and Swirral Edge normal walking paths?
No. They are exposed mountain ridges with scrambling and fall hazards. Do not use the Helvellyn ridge route without appropriate experience and conditions.
Can I download GPX files?
Yes. Our linked route pages provide maps and GPX information. Confirm any updates before travelling and carry independent navigation.
What if the weather turns?
Choose a shorter or low-level route, or postpone. Do not push onto exposed ridges in strong winds, poor visibility, ice or storms.
Start exploring: All routes and trails · Getting around without a car · Where to stay.
Jon is a regular contributor to several outdoor living and lifestyle news publications, concentrating on The Lake District. Now living in Glenridding, Jon studied journalism at Edinburgh University.
