The Lake District is a stunning region in the UK, known for its breathtaking scenery and excellent walking routes. With its picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and quaint villages, it’s no wonder that the Lake District is such a popular destination for family holidays and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we’ll take a look at just eight of the best walks in the Lake District, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. We’ll also highlight some of the best places to stay in the area, including hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodation, so you can plan the perfect getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the Lake District has something for everyone.
Top Walks in the Lake District
The Lake District is home to some of the most beautiful walks in the world. From gentle strolls to challenging hikes, there is something for everyone. Here are the top 8 walks in the Lake District.
1. Ash Landing and Claife Heights Walk, Windermere
This 5-mile circular walk takes you through the beautiful countryside around Windermere. Starting at Ash Landing, the walk takes you through the woodlands of Claife Heights, where you can enjoy stunning views of Windermere and the surrounding fells. The walk is easy to moderate and is suitable for families with children. There are plenty of places to stop for a picnic along the way.
Place to Stay: The Samling
2. Buttermere to Rannerdale Walk
This 5-mile walk takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District. Starting at Buttermere, the walk takes you through the beautiful Rannerdale Valley, where you can enjoy stunning views of the fells and the surrounding countryside. The walk is moderate to challenging and is suitable for experienced walkers.
Place to Stay: The Buttermere Court Hotel
3. Aira Force and Gowbarrow Fell Walk
This 4-mile circular walk takes you through the beautiful countryside around Ullswater. Starting at Aira Force, the walk takes you through the woodlands of Gowbarrow Fell, where you can enjoy stunning views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells. The walk is easy to moderate and is suitable for families with children.
Place to Stay: Inn On The Lake
4. Thirlmere to Helvellyn Walk
This 8-mile walk takes you to the summit of Helvellyn, one of the most popular fells in the Lake District. Starting at Thirlmere, the walk takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District, including the beautiful Grisedale Tarn. The walk is challenging and is suitable for experienced walkers.
Place to Stay: Borrowdale Hotel
5. Derwent Water and Catbells Walk
This 4.5-mile circular walk takes you around the beautiful Derwent Water. Starting at Keswick, the walk takes you up Catbells, where you can enjoy stunning views of Derwent Water and the surrounding fells. The walk is moderate and is suitable for families with children.
Place to Stay: Skiddaw Hotel
6. Coniston to Old Man of Coniston Walk
This 7-mile circular walk takes you to the summit of the Old Man of Coniston, one of the most popular fells in the Lake District. Starting at Coniston, the walk takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District, including the beautiful Tarn Hows. The walk is challenging and is suitable for experienced walkers.
Place to Stay: Inn at Coniston
7. Scafell Pike Corridor Route Walk
This 8-mile circular walk takes you to the summit of Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England. Starting at Wasdale Head, the walk takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District, including the beautiful Lingmell Beck. The walk is challenging and is suitable for experienced walkers.
Place to Stay: New Dungeon
8. Ravenglass and Muncaster Castle Walk
This 6-mile circular walk takes you through the beautiful countryside around Ravenglass and Muncaster Castle. Starting at Ravenglass, the walk takes you through the woodlands of Muncaster Fell, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The walk is easy to moderate and is suitable for families with children.
Place to Stay: The Pennington Hotel
When planning a walking trip to the Lake District, it is important to consider accommodation options. There are plenty of options available, from campsites and hostels to luxury hotels and self-catering cottages. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
The Lake District is known for its stunning landscape, and these walks are the perfect way to experience it. Whether you are a seasoned walker or a beginner, there is a walk for everyone in the Lake District.
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.
