Top Ten Scenic Walks in the Lake District National Park
Updated: Jun 12, 2020
The Lake District has walks and Climbs for every ability from hardcore hikes to comfortable strolls there is so much to explore. My advice - pack a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, toilet roll (in case you get caught out) and plenty of antibacterial wipes and tissues. Oh and decent footwear - essential! In my opinion, these are some of the best walks in the Lake District, in no particular order...
1. Old Man Coniston
One of the most popular walks in the Lake District, the walk follows a circular route from a parking area on Walna Scar road, near Coniston in the Lake District. From the summit there are excellent panoramic views of all surrounding hills and fells. The walk takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete and is just over 6 miles. On parts the paths are narrow and the climb is steep but this is fine for amateur walkers and a perfect way to see the lake District in all it's glory.
2. Hike Scafell Pike
Scafell Pike, at 978 metres, is England's highest mountain and forms one of the 'Three Peaks' of the UK's highest mountains which includes Ben Nevis in Scotland and Snowdonia in Wales. Do not under estimate this mountain. It is along and strenuous hike over rough terrain. There are three main walks up to the summit, the easiest route to Scafell Pike is the direct line via Brown Tongue from Wasdale. which is perfect for anyone wanting to just bag the summit, but if you are not in a rush, I prefer the ‘Corridor Route’. This natural path puts you in a stunning position below Scafell’s mighty summit dome at Lingmell Col where it meets with the Brown Tongue path. This walk is about 8 mile and takes about 6.5 hours.
3. Friar's Crag, Keswick
I absolutely love this walk, and in my opinion is one of the more romantic in the Lakes. It is just shy of 1 mile long and you can stroll around the lake looking at some of the most beautiful scenery in the lake district. The open space and lack of light pollution makes this a perfect spot for stargazing.
4. Orrest Head
This is a beautiful introductory walk to the Lake District, starting in Windermere it is a circular loop, mostly uphill. The walk starts on the A591 by the large 'Orrest Head' sign and follows a lane most of the way on its 20 minute journey to the summit. The walk in its entirety is only 3 miles long and takes approximately 1.5 hours and you get to see some spectacular scenery along the way.
5. Ash Landing and Claife Heights, Windermere
This elevated walk alongside Lake Windermere' features a dramatic viewing point at Low Blind How, where a gap in the wall leads to a crag that boasts stunning views of the lake, islands and the fells. This is a 7.5 mile walk which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Bring a picnic for the journey!
6. Stroll around Lake Buttermere
This is a perfect walk for a lazy afternoon stroll if you are not looking for anything too strenuous. It is a circular route around the lake, about 4.5 miles long and takes approximate 1.5 hours to complete the loop.
7. Hike up Helvellyn from Thirlmere
Helvellyn is the 3rd highest mountain in the Lake District and in England at 950m tall. There are numerous routes to reach the summit but with the route via Thirlmere being the most straightforward hikes to the top of Helvellyn. The route is approx 2.5 mile and takes 2.5 - 3 hours to complete.
8. Helvellyn from Glenridding via Striding Edge
Not for the fainthearted, this alternative route to the summit of Helvellyn, Striding Edge is steep and is more of a scramble. Begin your trek at Glenridding village near Ullswater. Only attempt if you have a good head for heights! This is approx 4 mile hike which takes around three hours all things depending!
9. Blencathra (Saddleback Mountain)
Blencathra is really several mountains in one. It has something for everyone and you can tailor the type of walking experience you have. The easiest route up is from the free car park just above Blencathra Field Studies Centre which allows you to drive up the first 300 metres, leaving just 568 metres of ascent. From the car park, follow the finger signpost pointing uphill and follow the well worn track; it’s just under 2.5 miles from there to the summit. If it is an adrenaline rush you are seeking, take the alternative Sharp Edge route to the summit.
10. Tarn Hows Circular Walk
This is a Lake District Classic walking route and quite possibly a good introductory walk to the Lake District showcasing Lakeland Fells. It is a 2 mile round trip which takes approximately one hour.
All walks are recommended on a dry clear day when there is good visibility and is safe for walking. Pack wisely.
For more Things to do and see during your stay in the Lake District check out my other posts:
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