Brant Fell Walk
1.9 miles (3 km)Enjoy a climb to Brant Fell on this walk in Bowness on Windermere. It's a fairly easy 2 mile walk, readily accessible from the village centre and with splendid views from the fell top.
Walk Report October 12th 2026 By Mark Ellis:
We started in Bowness-on-Windermere on Brantfell Road, near St Martin’s Church, and soon left the village behind as we followed the Dales Way uphill.... It’s a short walk, but the climb gives you a good change of scenery without needing to spend the whole day on the fells. The weather was a little breezy, which seemed fitting for the exposed ground ahead.
After turning onto the footpath towards Post Knott, we found ourselves on rougher ground, with rocks and patches of vegetation along the way. The entrance to the path can be easy to miss, so keeping an eye on the directions is worthwhile. We passed a few other walkers, including people with children, and it felt like a manageable outing as long as you took care on the uneven sections. Sheep were grazing nearby, and there were cattle in the surrounding fields too, so dogs need to be kept under control.
The views opened up as we reached Brant Fell, with Lake Windermere spread out below us. From the higher ground we could pick out Bowness, Windermere and the wooded islands on the lake, with hills stretching away beyond them. There are broad rocky outcrops where you can stop for a breather and take in the panorama. We lingered for a while, watching boats move across the water and enjoying a quieter perspective on an area that can be busy down by the waterfront.
Rather than retracing our steps, we followed the route east towards Lindeth Lane before turning north to join the Dales Way again. This gave the walk a satisfying circular shape, with a different view of the countryside on the return. The paths can be rocky and slippery after rain, so walking shoes with a decent grip are a sensible choice, particularly near the exposed sections.
Back in Bowness, the contrast with the open hillside was immediate. The lakeside is a good place to extend the day, whether you fancy a stroll by the marina, watching the Windermere steamers or stopping for a drink. The Belsfield Hotel, above the lake, is another option if you want to sit down somewhere with a view.
Brant Fell is a rewarding short walk from the village, with enough uphill effort to feel like an escape into the countryside and an excellent viewpoint at the top. Allow time to enjoy the panorama, take care on the rocky ground and follow the route carefully where the footpath leaves the road.
To extend your walking in the area try our Bowness Walk which takes you along Lake Windermere to the marina where you can catch the ferry to the other side of the water. From here you can walk to Hill Top, the former home of children's author Beatrix Potter, and then climb to Claife Heights and Moss Eccles Tarn. You could also head up the hill to the town of Windermere where you can enjoy a similar climb to the Orrest Head viewpoint.
Pubs and More Info
The Belsfield Hotel is located in a wonderful spot above Lake Windermere in the town. You could enjoy afternoon tea and enjoy a wonderful view over the lake. They are located at LA23 3EL for your sat navs.
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