Lake District Circular Walks
This selection of fine Lake District circuits expose you to some of the finest scenery in the National Park.
Please use the links below to view full route information including descriptions, elevation profiles, interactive maps and GPS downloads.
You can also view an overview map of all the routes in the using the Lake District Circular Walks Walk Map
| Route Name | Distance | Description |
| Borrowdale | 4 miles (6.5 km) | This circular walk explores the beautiful Borrowdale area of the Derwent Valley in the Lake District National Park. It's a popular area for walkers with lovely scenery, riverside paths along the River Derwent and views over Derwent Water to enjoy. Start your walk from the National Trust car park at Seatoller near Seatoller Bridge. From here you can directly pick up a section of the Allerdale Ramble long distance trail. Follow the path north and it will take you past High Scawdel to Castle Crag, the smallest hill in Alfred Wainwright's Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. This area is very pretty with nice woodland trails and great views over the surrounding fells and lakes. The route continues around the woodland of the crag before turning south towards Rosthwaite. You enjoy a nice riverside section along the Derwent before a short woodland section returns you to Seatoller. View Full Details>> |
| Circular Walk around Coniston | 16 miles (25.7 km) | A 16 mile circuit around the beautiful Coniston Lake in the Lake Disctrict National Park. The walk makes use of the Cumbria Way long distance trail on the western side of the lake before returning to the village through Grizedale Forest on the eastern side. The walk starts in the village of Coniston, next to the main car park in the village centre. From here you can directly pick up the Cumbria Way to take you to the lakeside. The path runs south through Bowmanstead, Coniston Hall Park and Torver Common Wood. At Torver Back Common the route climbs away from the lake to Beacon Fell where you will find the lovely Beacon Tarn. It's a delightful spot with the tranquil waters of the tarn and great views to the Coniston Fells, Coniston Water and Morecambe Bay. From Beacon Fell you descend to Greenholme Farm, following the pretty Greenholme Beck to Water Yeat at the southern end of the water. Here you turn north, passing High Nibthwaite before climbing to Grass Holme, Selside and Parkamoor where there are splendid views down to the lake. The route then descends from Parkamoor to Grizedale Forest where you follow a series of woodland trails past Brantwood to High Water Head at the northern end of the lake. The final section takes you to Waterhead Pier where there's a lovely lakeside cafe for refreshments. You then follow Lake Road back into the village centre and the car park. View Full Details>> |
| Claife Heights | 6 miles (10 km) | Claife Heights lies between Lake Windermere and Esthwaite Water in the Lake District. It's a splendid area for a walk with peaceful woodland, a number of tranquil tarns and wonderful views over the surrounding lakes. It's a special place as it has a distinctive feel to the rest of the lake district. It was also a place visited regularly by Beatrix Potter who lived at the nearby Hill Top. This circular walk starts at the ferry landing on the western shore of Windermere. You can catch the ferry from Bowness on Windermere. The route then heads to Far Sawrey before climbing through woodland to High Blind How, the high point on Claife Heights at 270 m (890 ft). The walk then passes a series of delightful tarns including Wise Een Tarn and Moss Eccles tarn. Beatrix Potter owned Moss Eccles and donated it to the National Trust after her death. The tarn is stocked with water lilies and fish, and surrounded by pretty rhododendrons. It's a particularly tranquil spot and one you'll want to stop at for a while. From the tarn the walk then descends on a good path to Far Sawrey and then on to the ferry. An alternative route takes you to the National Trust view point of Claife Station along the western shore of Windermere. See the video below for details of this. If you'd like to continue your walking in this area then you could visit the nearby Wray Castle or climb to Latterbarrow Hill. View Full Details>> |
| Crinkle Crags | 6 miles (10 km) | Crinkle Crags stands at a height of 859 m (2,818 ft) surrounding the valleys of Great Langdale and Upper Eskdale. View Full Details>> |
| Dow Crag and Seathwaite Tarn | 8 miles (13 km) | A challenging circular walk in the Western Lakes which visits the pretty Seathwaite Tarn and the fine viewpoint at Dow Crag. The walk starts from the little village of Seathwaite in the Duddon Valley area of the South Lakeland District. Park at the car park in the village and start by heading north east up to the Walna Scar Road. The path then climbs to Walna Scar, Brown Pike, Blind Tarn and Buck Pike before coming to Dow Crag. The summit stands at a height of 778 m (2,552 ft) with great views of the Scafells, Skiddaw and the Helvellyn range. You are also just above the lovely Goat's Tarn and Blind Tarn which are very photogenic. After taking in the views you then descend to Seathwaite Tarn where there's a nice path along the western side of the water. The path then continues the descent to pretty Tarn Beck, which you follow back into Seathwaite. View Full Details>> |
| Ennerdale Water | 7 miles (11 km) | Follow the lovely lakeside path around Ennerdale water on this circular walk in the Lake District National Park. Ennerdale is ideal for a tranquil walk because of its remote location. It is also the only lake not to have a road running alongside it so is the perfect escape. The well defined path runs close to the shoreline for most of the route with some woodland sections along the way. The views of Ennerdale valley are fabulous with some of the highest and best-known fells in Cumbria forming a spectacular backdrop - Great Gable, Green Gable, Brandreth, High Crag, Steeple and Pillar are all visible as you make your way around the lake. The walk begins in the car park at the western end of the lake near Ennerdale Bridge where you can get refreshments in the Shepherd's Arms pub. There's also a car park at Bowness Knot on the northern end of the lake. View Full Details>> |
| Fleetwith Pike | 4 miles (6 km) | This walk takes you to the 648 metres (2,126 feet) summit of this imposing fell in the Lake District. This circular walk starts at Gatesgarth in the Buttermere valley and climbs steeply to the summit via Fleetwith Edge. From here there are wonderful views of the nearby Pillar and Great Gable fells and the lakes of Crummock Water, Loweswater and Buttermere. From the summit the route then descends to Bell Crags, passing Honistor Crag on the way. You continue to Wanscale Bottom, passing waterfalls and the pretty Wanscale Beck. It's a steep and challenging climb to the summit but with an easier, more gradual descent. View Full Details>> |
| Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel Circular | 14 miles (23 km) | This circular walk makes use of the Cumbria Coastal Way and Cistercian Way to take you on a tour of the area surrounding this lovely coastal town. View Full Details>> |
| Grasmere | 5 miles (8 km) | This circular walk from the popular village of Grasmere visits several Lake District highlights. You'll visit Grasmere Lake, Rydal Water, Rydal Hall and Wordsworth's Dove Cottage on this walk which runs for just over 5 miles. The walk starts in the centre of Grasmere where you can visit the grave of poet William Wordsworth who is buried in the churchyard of St. Oswald's Church. Right next to the church is the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop where you can expect a long queue in the holiday months! From the church you can follow Red Bank Country Lane past the Garden Centre to the lake. The lane bends round the western side of the lake, passing the lakeside Faeryland tea rooms where you can also hire little boats to take out on the lake. Eventually you will come to a footpath heading down to the lake on your left. You can then follow a lovely lakeside path or climb up to Loughrigg Terrace for great views down to the lake. There's also the option here to head south and climb to Loughrigg Fell for wide ranging views of the nearby lakes and fells. At the eastern end of the lake there is a nice little beach where you will often see people relaxing on a summer's day. The route continues east towards Rydal Water where you can drop down to the lakeside path. At the eastern end of the water you pass through woodland before crossing the River Rothay to take you up to Rydal Hall. The Grade II listed house is well worth exploring. There's lovely formal gardens with a fountain, a nice cafe next to Rydal Beck and a waterfall with a viewing platform. It's a good spot to stop for refreshments with outdoor seating next to the beck. From Rydal Hall you pick up a section of the Coffin Route. The old path runs from Ambleside to Grasmere and is so called because it was used to convey coffins on their final journey to St Oswalds Church in Grasmere. You follow it west past Nab Scar to Town End where you will find Dove Cottage, the home of poet William Wordsworth from 1799 to 1808. During this period, William wrote much of the poetry for which he is remembered today, including 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud'. You can explore the fascinating old house and then browse the adjacent museum where you will find exhibits, manuscripts, landscapes and portraits. The final section of the walk takes you back to the village, passing a series of pretty shops and galleries on the way. View Full Details>> |
| Grasmoor | 7 miles (10.5 km) | This challenging circular walk climbs Grasmoor from the Buttermere Valley in the Lake District. The walk begins at the parking area at Lanthwaite at the northern end of Crummock Water. You then climb to Whiteside fell, passing Whin Ben on the way. From the peak of Whiteside there are extensive views of West Cumberland, the Solway Firth and the hills of Scotland. The next section takes you from Whiteside to Hopegill Head along a spectacular ridge with wonderful views of Gasgale Gill. The peak of Hopegill Head is a special place with views of the Isle of Man, the Scottish Border hills and the Helvellyn range. The walk continues to Sand Hill and the 852 m (2,795 ft) Grasmoor summit. From here there are splendid views over the surrounding fells and lakes. The walk then descends to the shores of Crummock Water, passing Lad Hows and Cinderdale Beck and common. View Full Details>> |
| Grisedale Pike | 7 miles (11.5 km) | Climb to this striking fell on this challenging walk near Keswick. The circular walk climbs to the summit of Grisedale Pike before visiting Hopegill Head and Sand Hill. It's a challenging walk but the path is mostly well defined. Start your walk from the car park on Whinlatter Pass just to the west of the village of Braithwaite. From here you can directly pick up the Grisedale Pike Path heading south west. The popular path climbs to the summit which stands at 791 m (2593 feet). From here there are wonderful views to the Cumbrian coast, the Vale of Keswick, the Pennines and the head of Derwentwater. On a very clear day you can even see the Belfast Hills and the Southern Uplands of Scotland. The route then continues south west to Hopegill Head which stands at a height of 770 m (2,530 ft). The head includes the 130 metre (417ft) high cliff of Hobcarton Crag, which drops precipitously to Hobcarton Gill on the fell's north east side. From the summit the The Isle of Man is seen on clear days, as are the Scottish Border hills. To the east you can clearly see the Helvellyn range. From Hopegill Head the walk descends to Sand Hill and Coledale Hause, before turning east towards the Force Crag Mines. The National Trust now own the area which was an important part of the Cumbrian mining industry. For over 200 years men worked the isolated spot digging for lead in the early years and then later barites and zinc. The final section follows the Coledale Beck back to Braithwaite. The village is located near to several other walking atttractions so there is great scope for extending your walk. Just to the north is the splendid Whinlatter Forest Park where there are miles of great walking paths and mountain bike trails. Just to the east you can pick up the Cumbria Way long distance trail and enjoy a walk along Derwent Water and a climb to Catbells. View Full Details>> |
| Haweswater | 10 miles (16.5 km) | Follow the lakeside trail around the beautiful Haweswater Reservoir on this circular walk in the Lake District. The area is one of the quieter parts of the national park so you can expect a delightfully peaceful walk on good paths. The path runs around the lake for just over 10 miles with some woodland sections along the way. You can start the walk from the car park at the southern end of the lake. Then head along the western side on a good footpath with great views across the water to the surrounding fells. Along the way you will pass pockets of woodland, Measand Beck and The Forces waterfalls. Here you can take a detour and climb along the beck to Bampton Common. The route continues along the lakeside to the Haweswater Dam and Burnbanks where you will pass the RSPB Haweswater Nature Reserve. Look out for birds including Buzzard, Peregrine and Redstart in this area. At Naddle Bridge you cross the Haweswater Beck and start the return leg on the eastern side of the water. You'll pass Naddle Forest, Guerness Wood and Mardale Banks before returning to the car park. The northern tip of the Kentmere Horseshoe circular walk passes close to the lake at Harter Fell. If you climb up to Harter Fell from the parking area you can pick up the trail which takes you on a tour of the range of fells in the upper Kentmere valley. Just to the west you can visit Blea Water, Brothers Water and Hayeswater. Wainwright's Coast to Coast long distance route also passes the reservoir so you can pick this up to extend your walk. The climb to High Street also starts from the Mardale Head car park. View Full Details>> |
| High Street from Haweswater | 6 miles (9 km) | Climb to the highest point in the far eastern section of the Lake District on this challenging circular walk. You can park at the Haweswater car park at Mardale Head at the southern end of the water to start your walk. You then pick up the footpath heading south west towards Small Water climbing along Mardale Beck. The path passes around Small Water to Nan Bield Pass before climbing to Mardale Ill Bell. At Nan Bield Pass you have the option of taking a detour and visiting Harter Fell. From Mardale Ill Bell you climb around Blea Water to the 828 metres (2,718 ft) summit of High Street. The views are magnificent with the Pennines, the Helvellyn range and the Southern Fells all coming into view. The route then descends to Long Stile and Rough Crag with wonderful views back down to Haweswater as you go. As an alternative you can head to Bowderthwaite Bridge where you can pick up a section of Wainwright's Coast to Coast long distance footpath. View Full Details>> |
| Kentmere Horseshoe | 12 miles (19 km) | This challenging circular route explores the range of fells in the upper Kentmere valley area of the Lake District. The route visits some of the quieter areas of the national park while visiting a series of lesser known fells. There's wonderful views of several lakes, the surrounding fells, the Pennine Hills and the Lancashire coast. The path is generally pretty good for nearly all of the route. The walk starts from the village of Kentmere located a few miles east of Ambleside. You then climb towards Garburn Nook along Crabtree Brow and Garburn Pass. The route then turns north to Yoke Fell which stands at a height of 706 m (2,316 ft). From here there are great views of Lake Windermere, Morecambe Bay, Coniston and Langdale. From Yoke Fell you continue to Ill Bell where you will find a number of columnar cairns and splendid views towards the Scafells. The path continues to Thornthwaite Fell via Froswick Fell with great views of Kentmere Common and Kentmere Reservoir below. At Thornthwaite Fell you turn east towards Mardale Ill Bell and Harter Fell. Here you can enjoy nice views down towards Haweswater before turning south toward Kentmere Pike. View Full Details>> |
| Keswick Circular Walk | 5 miles (8 km) | This circular walk from the popular town of Keswick takes you to some of the highlights of this beautiful area of the North Lakes. There's easy lakeside paths, woodland trails and climbs to the hills above Derwentwater. It's quite a challenging 5 mile walk but with great views over the lake from the high points. The walk starts from the car park next to the tourist information centre and the theatre near the lake. From here you can pick up a footpath heading south along the lake to Friar's Crag. It's a gentle climb to a lovely viewpoint overlooking the lake. You'll also find a memorial to John Ruskin, the leading English art critic of the Victorian era. Continue south along the lake to Calfclose Bay where you turn left and climb to Walla Crag. There's some nice woodland trails through Great Wood and splendid views towards Skiddaw from the 379 m (1,243 ft) high point of the fell. The route then descends to Castlerigg with lovely views of the Brockle Beck in this area. Around here you also have the option of taking a short detour to the Castlerigg Stone Circle. It's a fascinating site which dates from 3,300 to 900 BC, during the Late Neolithic and Early Bronze Ages. The final section of the walk takes you through Castlehead Wood where there is another nice viewpoint. You then pass Cockshot Wood and return to the finish point back at the car park. Here you can enjoy refreshments at the lakeside cafe which has outdoor seating and views towards the lake. View Full Details>> |
| Latrigg | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Climb this popular fell near Keswick on this lovely circular walk in the Lake District National Park. The walk starts in the town of Keswick and ascends Latrigg using the Cumbria Way and other footpaths. You continue towards Brundholme before returning through Brundholme Wood with a section along the Keswick Railway Path leading back into Keswick. This final section includes waterside walking along the River Greta. The summit stands at 368 m (1,207 ft) and the views of Derwent Water, Keswick and down the valley of Borrowdale are stunning. This is a popular walk because of its proximity to Keswick. It is also a relatively straightforward climb on well defined paths. Another popular fell is the nearby Catbells which gives faboulous views across Derwent Water. Also nearby is the fascinating Castlerigg Stone Circle. The ancient stone circle is located about a mile from Kewswick and is well worth a visit. View Full Details>> |
| Latterbarrow | 4 miles (5.7 km) | This is a fairly easy climb to Latterbarrow Hill in the Lake District. The hill reaches a height of 803 feet (245 m) with splendid views over Esthwaite Water and Lake Windermere. This circular walk starts in Hawkshead, following country lanes and footpaths to the hill summit where you will find a stone monument. There's also splendid views of a number of fells including the Fairfield Horseshoe and Red Screes. The walk then descends through the woodland on Claife Heights, passing a number of tarns on the way. If you'd like to continue your walking in the area then you could head to the nearby Wray Castle or explore the tarns and woodland of Claife Heights. View Full Details>> |
| Loughrigg Tarn | 2 miles (3 km) | This circular walk takes you to the lovely Loughrigg Tarn from Skelwith Bridge. The walk starts from the Skelwith Bridge Hotel and follows country lanes and footpaths around the pretty tarn. It's a fairly easy climb to the high point above the tarn with splendid views of the surrounding fells. It's a secluded peaceful spot which was a favourite of William Wordsworth. It's possible to continue your walk north and climb to the top of Loughrigg Fell. The Colwith Force waterfall walk also starts from Skelwith Bridge. It follows the Cumbria Way to the 40ft falls through some lovely countryside and woodland. If you would like to visit the tarn from Ambleside then try our Ambleside to Skelwith Bridge Walk which visits the tarn. View Full Details>> |
| Monk Coniston | 3 miles (5 km) | This circular walk takes you through the pretty grounds of Monk Coniston hall to Tarn Hows in the Lake District. The walk starts from the Monk Coniston National Trust car park at the northern end of Coniston Water. It takes you through the Monk Coniston Hall estate with its walled garden, stone Gazebo and attractive woodland. Look out for a variety of flora and fauna including large redwoods and pretty woodland wildflowers. Wildlife includes roe deer, hares, common lizards and adders. At the northern end of the route you will come to the beautiful Tarn Hows where you can enjoy a waterside walk around the tarn with great views of the surrounding Lakeland mountains. From the northern tarn you can enjoy a climb to Black Crag for wonderful views of the area. To extend your walking in the area you could enjoy a walk or cycle along Coniston Water. The Cumbria Coastal Way also runs past the estate so you could pick up this long distance trail to further explore the area. View Full Details>> |
| Newby Bridge Circular Walk | 4 miles (7 km) | This circular walk from the hamlet of Newby Bridge, climbs through woodland to Finsthwaite Heights and High Dam tarn. The little hamlet is in a lovely spot on the River Leven. It's at the southern tip of Lake Windermere and one of the lesser visited spots in the Lake District. You can reach the village by catching a boat to Lakeside from Bowness. The old steam train on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite heritage railway will take you from Lakeside to Newby Bridge. The walk starts from Newby Bridge railway station on the heritage railway. You could also start the walk from Lakeside at Lake Windermere. From here you can pick up footpaths climbing through the woods to Finsthwaite Heights. It's a moderate walk, climbing to a height of over 600ft at the high point at High Dam. The walk then descends through more woodland back to the train station. Around Finsthwaite you can take a small detour and visit Bobbin Mill. The extensive working mill produced millions of wooden bobbins vital to the Lancashire spinning and weaving industries. It is the only working bobbin mill left in the Lake District today. You can learn about the history of the mill through tours and an exhibition. To extend your walking in the area you could visit Fell Foot Country Park on the other side of the lake. From here you can enjoy a climb to Gummers How for great views over the lake. View Full Details>> |
| Orrest Head | 2 miles (3.4 km) | Orrest Head was the first fell climbed by Alfred Wainwright. It inspired him to a 'to a life made happy by fellwandering' so you can expect some wonderful views over lakeland on this fairly easy climb. It's a great walk to do if you're coming in by train as the start of the climb is located right next to Windermere railway station. View Full Details>> |
| Pillar from Wasdale Head | 7 miles (11.5 km) | Climb to this prominent Lakeland Fell on this popular circular route. The mountain stands at 892 metres (2,927 feet) making it the eighth highest in the Lake District. On the walk you'll enjoy splendid views of the valleys of Ennerdale and Wasdale. The fell is typically climbed from Wasdale Head where there is a popular car park. From here you head north to the rushing water of Ritson's Force Waterfalls. You continue to Gatherstone Head, crossing Gatherstone Beck on the way. The ascent continues along the Black Sail Pass before turning west to the Pillar summit via Looking Stead. The summit is wide and grassy with splendid views of most of the major Lakeland fells. You can also see Loweswater and Ennerdale Water. Nearby is Pillar Rock, considered one of the wonders of the Lake District. The striking rock is popular with rock climbers and located just to the north of the Pillar summit. After taking in the fine views you descend to Scoat Fell. From here the full horseshoe of the Western Fells can be seen. The descent continues to Red Pike fell, passing Scoat Tarn before coming to Dore Head. The final section takes you around Dorehead Screes and along Mosedale Beck before returning to the Wasdale Head car park. To continue your walking in the area you could climb to Scafell Pike. Scafell is the highest point in England and is often climbed from Wasdale Head. Just to the north of Pillar is Ennerdale Forest where there are footpaths leading to the lovely Ennerdale Water. View Full Details>> |
| Rannerdale Knotts | 2 miles (4 km) | Visit Rannerdale Knotts and Whiteless Pike on this circular walk in the beautiful Rannerdale valley. It's a small fell but its proximity to Buttermere and Crummock Water make it an attractive option for walkers. There's also good footpaths, fine views and a section through the lovely bluebell valley. You can start the walk from the small car park off the B5289, next to Crummock Water. Then head north through the bluebell valley. The area is managed by the National Trust and is a stunning sight in the spring months, when carpets of bluebells cover the hills. You then head east through High Rannerdale, passing along Squat Beck. Near Whiteless Breast you turn west and ascend to the 355 m (1,165 ft) summit of Rannerdale Knotts. It's a wonderful spot with views back down to Crummock Water and Buttermere Lake. To extend your walking in the area you could try the Crummock Water and Buttermere walks. Both lakes have lovely waterside paths to try. For a more challenging climb you could try the Grasmoor walk which starts from the nearby Rannerdale Bridge. View Full Details>> |
| Red Screes | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular route takes you up Red Screes fell in the Lake District National Park. The walk begins in the popular town of Ambleside and ascends to Scandale Fell and Scandale Pass along the Scandale Beck. From Scandale Pass you turn east to the summit of Red Screes. Here you will find cairns, a circular stone shelter and the pretty Red Screes tarn. There are magnificent views of the coast, Helvellyn, Dove Crag, Fairfield and over Deepdale Hause. To the west you can see the Coniston, Bowfell and Scafell fells. You descend passing Raven Crag to Snarker Moss where the ground can be quite boggy. You continue to Snarker Pike before reaching the Kirkstone Road which will take you back into Ambleside. View Full Details>> |
| Rydal Water | 3 miles (5 km) | Enjoy a wonderful circular walk around the beautiful Rydal Water in the Lake District. The route makes use of the waterside trails on the southern side of the lake before picking up a section of the popular Coffin Route on the northern side. There's much to see on the route with views of the River Rothay, rushing becks, pretty waterfalls, woodland trails and a visit to Rydal Hall with its cafe and pretty gardens. It's about a 3 mile walk with some moderate climbs so a reasonable level of fitness is required. You can start your walk from the good sized White Moss car park at the north eastern end of the lake. The bus also stops here if you are coming by public transport. From White Moss you can follow a footpath south through woodland and along the River Rothay to the eastern tip of Grasmere. The path then climbs east towards Loughrigg Terrace before descending to the lakeside path. Eventually the path takes you through woodland and across the Rothay before climbing towards Rydal Hall. The 19th century mansion has nice formal gardens and the pretty Rydal Falls where you can enter 'The Grot' - an 18th century summerhouse designed for viewing the waterfalls. There's also a very good tea shop with outdoor seating so it's a great place to stop for refreshments at what is the half way point of the route. Just up the hill you will find Rydal Mount, the home of the poet William Wordsworth from 1813 to his death in 1850. After leaving Rydal Hall you pick up the Coffin Route so called because it was used to convey coffins on their final journey to St Oswalds Church in Grasmere. It heads west below Nab Scar with nice views over the lake from the elevated position of the path. After about a mile you come to a beck where you turn left to return to the car park. To continue your walking in the area you could climb to Loughrigg Fell on the southern side of the lake. From the 335 m (1,099 ft) summit there's fabulous views back down to Rydal Water and Grasmere Lake. If you continue west along the coffin route it will take you into Grasmere where there are numerous good walking trails to try. The White Moss Walks start from the same car park and will take you across White Moss Common where there's woodland and meadow to enjoy. View Full Details>> |
| Scale Force | 5 miles (8.5 km) | This walk visits Scale Force, the highest waterfall in the Lake District. The waterfall, though narrow, drops from a height of 170 feet in a deep wooden gorge. It's an impressive sight and well worth the short climb from Buttermere. This circular walk starts in the village of Buttermere, taking you along the beautiful Crummock Water and the pretty Scale Beck to the waterfall. From here you can simply descend back to Buttermere or follow the rest of the route to the nearby Red Pike. This is a challenging climb, passing Blea Crag and Lingcomb Edge before reaching the 2,476 ft (755 m) Red Pike Summit. It's worth the climb as there are wonderful views over a number of lakes including Derwentwater, Buttermere, Crummock Water, Ennerdale Water and Loweswater. The walk then descends to Buttermere passing the pretty Bleaberry Tarn and Buttermere lake on the way. If you'd like to continue your walking in this area you can enjoy lakeside walks around Crummock Water, Buttermere and Loweswater. View Full Details>> |
| Seat Sandal | 4 miles (6.5 km) | This circular walk climbs to Seat Sandal fell near Grasmere in the Lake District National Park. You can start the walk from the layby parking just off the A591 at Mill Bridge. Head north from layby, crossing Tongue Gill before picking up the footpaths heading north east. The first section follows Wainwright's Coast to Coast along Tongue Gill to the Farfield Iron Mine. The route continues al the C2C to Grisedale Hause where you turn south west towards the Seat Sandal summit. From the 736 m (2,415 ft) summit you can see the Helvellyn and Fairfield ranges, the Solway Firth, the Scottish mountains and Morecambe Bay to the south. After taking in the views you descend back to the start point on the western side of Great Tongue. You could also descend on a section of the C2C via Little Tongue Gill.
To extend your walk you can continue along the C2C to Grisedale Tarn which is just to the north of Seat Sandal. The path will eventually lead you to St Sunday Crag where there's great views over Ullswater. The fell is also very close to the route for the Fairfield Horseshoe which is another popular climb in the area. View Full Details>> |
| Silver How | 2 miles (3 km) | This is a fairly easy climb to Silver How fell in the Lake District. It's a short circular walk starting in Grasmere and a nice one to try if you're looking for an introduction to fell walking. The walk passes the National Trust owned Allan Bank, the former home of William Wordsworth. It's a lovely place to stop for a drink or go for a stroll in the pretty garden. From the Silver How summit there are super views of Grasmere village and lake. Many of the famous fells are also visible such as Helm Crag, Steel Fell, Heron Pike and Fairfield. The walk descends from the summit with a woodland section taking you back to Grasmere. If you enjoy this walk then there are some similar ones to try starting in Grasmere. For example you could climb the nearby Helm Crag or visit the pretty Easedale Tarn. Both walks are similar in length and are also fairly easy climbs. View Full Details>> |
| Skelwith Bridge | 3 miles (4.6 km) | With the long distance Cumbria Way passing through the village and a series of beatiful waterfalls to visit, the village of Skelwith Bridge is a great place for walkers. The walk to Loughrigg Tarn and the delightful riverside stroll to Elterwater are especially popular. This circular walk visits some of the highlights of the area including Colwith Force Waterfall, Skelwith Force waterfall, Elterwater, the River Brathay and Great Langdale Beck. The walk starts from the bridge at Skelwith Bridge. Head west along the river passing the lovely riverside tea rooms before coming to the impressive Skelwith Force waterfall. Though small the falls are very powerful and can be seen up close from the viewing area. At the falls you pick up a section of the Cumbria Way to first take you along the Brathay and then Great Langdale Beck to Elterwater. It's a lovely area with peaceful woodland opening out to open countryside along the beck. There's great views of the Langdale Fells as you approach the little village of Elterwater where you can enjoy refreshments at the nice pub which has outdoor seating. The route then climbs through Sawrey's Wood and Fletcher's Wood to Colwith Force Waterfall. The falls drop 40 feet over several stages and are a spectacular sight when in full spate. At the falls you pick up the Cumbria Way again and descend back to Skelwith Bridge. There's lovely views here back down to the river and lake. To extend the walk keep heading west along the Cumbria Way and you can enjoy a splendid climb up Dungeon Ghyll falls to Stickle Tarn. View Full Details>> |
| St Sunday Crag | 8 miles (13 km) | This challenging circular walk from Patterdale climbs to this prominent fell on the north-eastern ridge of Fairfield. The circular walk climbs to Birks Fell and then onto the 841 m (2,759 ft) of St Sunday Crag. There's fabulous views of the Helvellyn range, High Street and the lake below. The walk takes place on generally good footpaths on a splendid elevated ridge. You can start your walk from the pretty village of Patterdale at the southern end of Ullswater Lake. Then follow the trail south west out of the village to Birks Fell before climbing across St Sunday Crag. You then descend to the pretty Grisedale Tarn before turning round and returning to Patterdale via Grisedale Forest and Patterdale Common. To extend your walking in the area you could visit the lovely Aira Force Waterfall. The long distance Ullswater Way will take you on a tour of the area surrounding the lake. Wainwright's Coast to Coast runs through the area so you could continue along the path past Grisedale Tarn towards Seat Sandal where there are more splendid views. View Full Details>> |
| Styhead Tarn and Sprinkling Tarn | 5 miles (8 km) | This circular walk visits these two pretty tarns in the beautiful Borrowdale area of the Lake District. There's great views of Great Gable and Great End as you make your way to the tarns. The route also passes the impressive Taylor Gill Force waterfall which is one of the highest falls in the national park. You'll probably see lots of other walkers as they climb to Scafell Pike via Styhead Tarn. The route starts at the Seathwaite car park and follows the Styhead Gill to the Taylor Force Waterfall and Styhead Tarn. You then turn left and head towards Sprinkling Tarn where you reach a height of over 2000ft. The route then descends to Sprinkling Crags before following the pretty Grains Gill back to Seathwaite. To extend your walk you can climb to Scafell Pike on the famous Corridor Route. You could also pick up the long distance Allerdale Ramble and enjoy a climb to Castle Crag where there are great views over Derwent Water. View Full Details>> |
| Ullswater Way | 20 miles (32 km) | Explore the area around Ullswater Lake on this waymarked circular walk in the Lake District National Park. The route includes a mixture of easy lakeside sections and some more challenging climbs above the lake into the surrounding hills. There's fabulous views of the Helvellyn range on the section from Howtown to Glenridding. This part of the route on the southern side of the lake is considered to be the finest lakeside walk in the Lake District. The first section takes you from Pooley Bridge to Howtown heading south west along the lake towards Hallin Fell and Barton Park. You continue with a woodland section through Hallinhag Wood before passing Scalehow Force Waterfall and Birk Fell. The route continues past Patterdale Common and Place Fell to the small village of Patterdale where you can stop for refreshments. This is about the halfway point on the walk. The second section takes you from Patterdale to Glenridding and then along the lake towards Glencoyne Wood and Glencoyne Park. Here you climb towards the wonderful Aira Force. View Full Details>> |
| Walla Crag | 2 miles (4 km) | This circular walk on Derwentwater climbs to Walla Crag and explores Great Wood in the Lake District. It's a short but rewarding climb with wonderful views over the lake below. The walk can be started from nearby Keswick but this route starts and finishes from the Great Wood car park off Borrowdale Road, near Calfclose Bay. From here you can directly pick up the Walla Crag Trail to take you up to the crag. The trail heads south from the car park to Cat Gill before turning north east passing Lady's Rake and then on to the Walla Crag summit. The high point stands at 379 m (1,243 ft) with wonderful views over Derwentwater and towards Skiddaw. You can just descend the same way but this route continues on to Castlerigg where you cross the pretty Brockle Beck. Here you have the option of visiting the fascinating Castlerigg Stone Circle which is just off the route at Castlerigg. However, this route descends on woodland trails through Great Wood, passing Watson's Park on the way. There's lots to enjoy on the walk with heather in the summer months, the rushing waters of Cat Gill and some spectacular Lakeland views. The walk can be extended by heading along the lake towards Ashness Bridge and Suprise View. Bleaberry fell is also nearby. Just to the north is the wonderful Friar's Crag viewpoint and the Castlehead viewpoint. These both proffer wonderful views of the lake and surrounding fells. The walk can also be started from Keswick as shown in the video below. View Full Details>> |
| Wansfell Pike | 6 miles (10 km) | This circular walk in the Lake District takes you up Wansfell Pike fell to Troutbeck, and then back through Skelghyll woods. It's popular with walkers as it begins and ends in the accessible town of Ambleside. The first section of the walk takes you from the centre of Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force, a spectacular 70 foot waterfall which can be viewed safely from a railed viewpoint. View Full Details>> |
| Wast Water | 7 miles (11 km) | Enjoy a circular walk around one of the most stunning lakes in the Lake District National Park. View Full Details>> |
| Windermere Way | 41 miles (66 km) | A circular walk around Lake Windermere in the beautiful Lake District. The route takes you along various footpaths and quiet lanes visiting several of the pretty settlements surrounding the lake. Starting in Bowness the route heads north along the lake before climbing up to the town of Windermere. Here you enjoy a climb to the viewpoint at Orrest Head and continue past Troutbeck Bridge to Wansfell Pike. The route then descends into the popular town of Ambleside before climbing along Loughrigg Fell to the lovely Loughrigg Tarn. The route descends to Skelwith Bridge, with its impressive waterfall and riverside tea rooms. You then pass along the western side of the lake visiting the National Trust's Wray Castle and exploring the woodland trails on Claife Heights. At the southern end of the lake you cross the River Leven at Newby Bridge and head along the eastern side of the lake. You'll pass the fine viewpoint at Gummers How before returning to Bowness. View Full Details>> |