What are the best walks in the Lake District for 2026?
The best walks in the Lake District for 2026 range from easy lakeside paths near Windermere and Bowness to the iconic Catbells fell walk. For visitors seeking circular routes, the Aira Force waterfall trail near Ullswater is a top choice, while those staying in Cartmel can enjoy a mix of historic village strolls and scenic fell-side hikes.Once you’ve read through our suggested routes, head to the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information and terrain cautions surrounding the area before heading out on any adventures!
• Research your route • Check the weather forecast for the location you are exploring • Prepare appropriately – stay hydrated! • Inform others of where you are heading • Do not rely on electronics for navigation • Refrain from straying from the signposted routes • Visit the National Trust Website
Lake District Walks: Ambleside
The Champion Tree trail
APPROX 0.8 MILES
This circular route takes you through the Skelghyll Woods, and through some of the tallest trees in Cumbria and England, the walk-in total is just under a mile and will take around 45-minutes to complete. To start the trailhead to the car park for Stagshaw Gardens and look uphill from there you will see a metal sign saying ‘Skelghyll Woods’. At this sign take the right-hand footpath into the woods. The Champion Tree Trail is an easy route with easy-to-spot posts with tree symbols to assist in navigation.
The Common Wood Walk
APPROX 1.4 MILES
This is a tranquil route that overlooks the bustling town of Windemere and is a great walk for those looking to enjoy a stroll through the old oak trees. The view over the lake certainly makes the walk worth it!
APPROX 0.8 MILES
This circular route takes you through the Skelghyll Woods, and through some of the tallest trees in Cumbria and England, the walk-in total is just under a mile and will take around 45-minutes to complete. To start the trailhead to the car park for Stagshaw Gardens and look uphill from there you will see a metal sign saying ‘Skelghyll Woods’. At this sign take the right-hand footpath into the woods. The Champion Tree Trail is an easy route with easy-to-spot posts with tree symbols to assist in navigation.
The Common Wood Walk
APPROX 1.4 MILES
This is a tranquil route that overlooks the bustling town of Windemere and is a great walk for those looking to enjoy a stroll through the old oak trees. The view over the lake certainly makes the walk worth it!
Top Circular Walks Near Windermere & Bowness in the Lake District (2026 Guide)
Orrest Head
APPROX 3.5 MILES
There are a number of ways up Orrest Head, almost all of which are straightforward, easy walks with clear signage. It’s an ideal introductory scenic walk for beginners and families. We recommend starting your walk by heading along Lake Road to the Northeast of Bowness towards Windermere, with Lake Windermere helping set the scene, and heading through the junction at Church Street. Head to the signposted track that can be found opposite the NatWest and keep to the left. From there keep an eye out for the signposts along the route and follow these all the way to the top of the hill for incredible views.
Cockshott point and ferry nab Circular
APPROX 1.2 MILES
This is one of our favourite short routes in Bowness and is a great easy stroll at any time of day! The circular route is a short, flat trail that is also part of the Miles Without Stiles routes, making it a good choice for a short walk to enjoy a view of the lake without having to tackle the rocky shore.
Bowness Circular
APPROX 4 MILES
To explore the area immediately surrounding Bowness, this circular walk is just perfect. There’s an extended section along a busy road (with pavement) but otherwise, this is a lovely route that experiences both the bustling town hub and the quieter countryside.
Iconic Must-Do Routes for 2026
If you’re narrowing down the best walks to add to your Lake District list, Catbells deserves a place near the top. It’s a well-known fell that’s popular for hiking and offers spectacular views over Derwentwater.
APPROX 3.5 MILES
There are a number of ways up Orrest Head, almost all of which are straightforward, easy walks with clear signage. It’s an ideal introductory scenic walk for beginners and families. We recommend starting your walk by heading along Lake Road to the Northeast of Bowness towards Windermere, with Lake Windermere helping set the scene, and heading through the junction at Church Street. Head to the signposted track that can be found opposite the NatWest and keep to the left. From there keep an eye out for the signposts along the route and follow these all the way to the top of the hill for incredible views.
Cockshott point and ferry nab Circular
APPROX 1.2 MILES
This is one of our favourite short routes in Bowness and is a great easy stroll at any time of day! The circular route is a short, flat trail that is also part of the Miles Without Stiles routes, making it a good choice for a short walk to enjoy a view of the lake without having to tackle the rocky shore.
Bowness Circular
APPROX 4 MILES
To explore the area immediately surrounding Bowness, this circular walk is just perfect. There’s an extended section along a busy road (with pavement) but otherwise, this is a lovely route that experiences both the bustling town hub and the quieter countryside.
Iconic Must-Do Routes for 2026
If you’re narrowing down the best walks to add to your Lake District list, Catbells deserves a place near the top. It’s a well-known fell that’s popular for hiking and offers spectacular views over Derwentwater.
Easy Walks Near Cartmel: Village Strolls and Hidden Fells
Cartmel Peninsula Circular Walk
APPROX 6.5 MILES
Enjoy a scenic circular walk around the Cartmel Peninsula, taking in breathtaking views of Morecambe Bay and the surrounding countryside.
Holker Hall and Gardens
APPROX 2 MILES
Explore the beautiful grounds of Holker Hall, a historic country house, and take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens.
Hampsfell Hospice Walk
Climb Hampsfell to reach the iconic Hampsfell Hospice, offering panoramic views of the Lake District, Morecambe Bay, and the Yorkshire Dales.
Cartmel Fell Circular Walk
APPROX 5 MILES
Discover the peaceful and scenic Cartmel Fell area on this circular walk, passing through charming villages and enjoying stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Finsthwaite Heights
Explore the scenic woodlands and rolling hills of Finsthwaite Heights, enjoying the tranquility and wildlife of this picturesque area.
Grange-over-Sands Promenade
APPROX 3 MILES
Take a gentle stroll along the promenade at nearby Grange-over-Sands, enjoying the views across Morecambe Bay and the charming Edwardian architecture.
Cistercian Way
Follow a section of the Cistercian Way, a long-distance walking trail that passes through the Lake District, including parts near Cartmel, offering a variety of landscapes and historic sites.
Eggerslack Woods
APPROX 2 MILES
Wander through the enchanting Eggerslack Woods, known for their vibrant bluebells in spring and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk.
APPROX 6.5 MILES
Enjoy a scenic circular walk around the Cartmel Peninsula, taking in breathtaking views of Morecambe Bay and the surrounding countryside.
Holker Hall and Gardens
APPROX 2 MILES
Explore the beautiful grounds of Holker Hall, a historic country house, and take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque gardens.
Hampsfell Hospice Walk
Climb Hampsfell to reach the iconic Hampsfell Hospice, offering panoramic views of the Lake District, Morecambe Bay, and the Yorkshire Dales.
Cartmel Fell Circular Walk
APPROX 5 MILES
Discover the peaceful and scenic Cartmel Fell area on this circular walk, passing through charming villages and enjoying stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Finsthwaite Heights
Explore the scenic woodlands and rolling hills of Finsthwaite Heights, enjoying the tranquility and wildlife of this picturesque area.
Grange-over-Sands Promenade
APPROX 3 MILES
Take a gentle stroll along the promenade at nearby Grange-over-Sands, enjoying the views across Morecambe Bay and the charming Edwardian architecture.
Cistercian Way
Follow a section of the Cistercian Way, a long-distance walking trail that passes through the Lake District, including parts near Cartmel, offering a variety of landscapes and historic sites.
Eggerslack Woods
APPROX 2 MILES
Wander through the enchanting Eggerslack Woods, known for their vibrant bluebells in spring and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Walks in Grasmere and Easedale Tarn
Dora’s Field
Dora’s Field, also known as The Rash Field, is a great spot to visit for the less experienced walker or a rambler looking for a gentle break from the hills of the Lake District! A wander around the well-loved field, found next to the churchyard of St Mary’s Church at Rydal, at your own pace is an excellent way to spend an hour or so taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Grasmere.
Helm Crag
APPROX 3.5 MILES
Helm Crag, also well known as the ‘Lion and the Lamb’, while not one of the biggest of the Lakeland fells is one of the best known Lakelands fells.
Helm Crag takes you on a short but steep walk requiring moderate effort, the walk is a great introduction to hiking in the Lakes, and the awesome views over Grasmere and Far Easdale at the summit are certainly worth the effort!
Silver How
APPROX 2.8 MILES
Looming over Grasmere as part of the Blea Rigg ridge, the backbone that bisects Grasmere from Langdale, Silver How is the perfect spot to enjoy the sprawling views of the area along with other curious sites such Wray Gill or Allen Bank, a Georgina villa perched on the hillside which was once home to poet William Wordsworth.
Rydal Water
APPROX 5.5 MILES
While Rydal Water is on the smaller side when compared with the many other bodies of water in the Lake District, it is no less beautiful. The hike is around 4.7 km with roughly 162 m of elevation gain. Sitting at the foot of Loughrigg Fell, we’d suggest that the best way to observe Rydal Water is by combining this route with part of the circular walk from Grasmere, along the lake.
Loughrigg
APPROX 5 MILES
Loughrigg, despite its size, is an absolute must for anyone visiting the Lake District! It is famously known as one of Wainwright’s ‘midget mountains’ being more of a sprawling ‘bump’ rather than a mountain as you would expect from one of Wainwright’s iconic rambles. It offers classic mountain views across lakes, valleys, and peaks, while remaining moderately accessible.
Loughrigg Tarn Circuit
APPROX 1.7 MILES
There are several routes around Loughrigg Fell, but the Loughrigg Tarn Circuit is a great circular walk for walkers and cyclists of all levels of skill leading from Skelwith Bridge.
The circuit route starts from Skelwith Bridge Hotel and follows a level country pathway, that is maintained by the National Trust, bracketed by wildflowers and (during summer months) waterlilies when circling the tiny tarn. The route is a fairly easy climb to the higher points which are well worth the exploration and is well known as being a favourite of William Wordsworth.
Lakeside Walk – Grasmere Lakeshore
APPROX 4 MILES
Sitting just to the South of Grasmere village this lake, like many of the other walks we have listed, was a particular favourite of William Wordsworth who took great inspiration from the abundance of natural beauty surrounding his Cumbria home. This charm holds true to the time and the lakeside walk is a particular favourite for visitors and locals alike.
Iconic Must-Do Routes for 2026
To capture the full Lake District experience, add these trending routes to your itinerary:
Catbells (The Family Favorite): Consistently the most searched fell walk in the UK (Interest Score: 98). It offers a “proper” mountain feeling with relatively low effort.
Aira Force (The Waterfall Walk): Located near Ullswater, this is the most dramatic waterfall walk in the region. It is highly recommended for dog-friendly hiking due to its well-maintained circular paths.
Tarn Hows: A scenic walk and popular route for family days out, with a relaxed 3 km circular that is wheelchair friendly and suitable for pushchairs.
Buttermere Circular: A quieter walk through Buttermere Valley, known for beautiful landscapes and easy shoreline walking.
2026 Hiking Trends: Mindful & Sustainable Travel
Search interest is shifting toward “slower,” more intentional travel. The weather in the Lake District fells can change quickly, so it is always worth checking the weather forecast before setting out. Consider these 2026 trends for your next hike.
“Mindful Walking”: Many of our trails near Troutbeck and Staveley are perfect for quiet, meditative strolls away from the main tourist hubs.
Eco-Friendly Exploration: The Lake District is seeing a rise in “car-free” hiking. Many of the walks listed above are easily accessible via the local bus and boat networks from Windermere, and public transport can be a practical way to reach some trailheads without a car. For more adventurous days out, routes like Helvellyn via Striding Edge are among the most exhilarating walks here, but they are best left to experienced walkers in good weather with careful planning.
The Ridgestone Experience: Rest & Recovery
one, we know that a great walk is only half the adventure. Our luxury properties are specifically designed for walkers, featuring:
Dedicated Boot Rooms: Plenty of space to dry off your gear and store your hiking boots.
Private Hot Tubs & Saunas: The perfect way to soothe tired muscles—our “Hot Tub” property pages are among our most engaged!
Prime Locations: Stay right in the heart of the fells in Ambleside, Bowness, or Kendal.
Ready to explore? Check our availability for your next hiking retreat.
Dora’s Field, also known as The Rash Field, is a great spot to visit for the less experienced walker or a rambler looking for a gentle break from the hills of the Lake District! A wander around the well-loved field, found next to the churchyard of St Mary’s Church at Rydal, at your own pace is an excellent way to spend an hour or so taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Grasmere.
Helm Crag
APPROX 3.5 MILES
Helm Crag, also well known as the ‘Lion and the Lamb’, while not one of the biggest of the Lakeland fells is one of the best known Lakelands fells.
Helm Crag takes you on a short but steep walk requiring moderate effort, the walk is a great introduction to hiking in the Lakes, and the awesome views over Grasmere and Far Easdale at the summit are certainly worth the effort!
Silver How
APPROX 2.8 MILES
Looming over Grasmere as part of the Blea Rigg ridge, the backbone that bisects Grasmere from Langdale, Silver How is the perfect spot to enjoy the sprawling views of the area along with other curious sites such Wray Gill or Allen Bank, a Georgina villa perched on the hillside which was once home to poet William Wordsworth.
Rydal Water
APPROX 5.5 MILES
While Rydal Water is on the smaller side when compared with the many other bodies of water in the Lake District, it is no less beautiful. The hike is around 4.7 km with roughly 162 m of elevation gain. Sitting at the foot of Loughrigg Fell, we’d suggest that the best way to observe Rydal Water is by combining this route with part of the circular walk from Grasmere, along the lake.
Loughrigg
APPROX 5 MILES
Loughrigg, despite its size, is an absolute must for anyone visiting the Lake District! It is famously known as one of Wainwright’s ‘midget mountains’ being more of a sprawling ‘bump’ rather than a mountain as you would expect from one of Wainwright’s iconic rambles. It offers classic mountain views across lakes, valleys, and peaks, while remaining moderately accessible.
Loughrigg Tarn Circuit
APPROX 1.7 MILES
There are several routes around Loughrigg Fell, but the Loughrigg Tarn Circuit is a great circular walk for walkers and cyclists of all levels of skill leading from Skelwith Bridge.
The circuit route starts from Skelwith Bridge Hotel and follows a level country pathway, that is maintained by the National Trust, bracketed by wildflowers and (during summer months) waterlilies when circling the tiny tarn. The route is a fairly easy climb to the higher points which are well worth the exploration and is well known as being a favourite of William Wordsworth.
Lakeside Walk – Grasmere Lakeshore
APPROX 4 MILES
Sitting just to the South of Grasmere village this lake, like many of the other walks we have listed, was a particular favourite of William Wordsworth who took great inspiration from the abundance of natural beauty surrounding his Cumbria home. This charm holds true to the time and the lakeside walk is a particular favourite for visitors and locals alike.
Iconic Must-Do Routes for 2026
To capture the full Lake District experience, add these trending routes to your itinerary:
Catbells (The Family Favorite): Consistently the most searched fell walk in the UK (Interest Score: 98). It offers a “proper” mountain feeling with relatively low effort.
Aira Force (The Waterfall Walk): Located near Ullswater, this is the most dramatic waterfall walk in the region. It is highly recommended for dog-friendly hiking due to its well-maintained circular paths.
Tarn Hows: A scenic walk and popular route for family days out, with a relaxed 3 km circular that is wheelchair friendly and suitable for pushchairs.
Buttermere Circular: A quieter walk through Buttermere Valley, known for beautiful landscapes and easy shoreline walking.
2026 Hiking Trends: Mindful & Sustainable Travel
Search interest is shifting toward “slower,” more intentional travel. The weather in the Lake District fells can change quickly, so it is always worth checking the weather forecast before setting out. Consider these 2026 trends for your next hike.
“Mindful Walking”: Many of our trails near Troutbeck and Staveley are perfect for quiet, meditative strolls away from the main tourist hubs.
Eco-Friendly Exploration: The Lake District is seeing a rise in “car-free” hiking. Many of the walks listed above are easily accessible via the local bus and boat networks from Windermere, and public transport can be a practical way to reach some trailheads without a car. For more adventurous days out, routes like Helvellyn via Striding Edge are among the most exhilarating walks here, but they are best left to experienced walkers in good weather with careful planning.
The Ridgestone Experience: Rest & Recovery
one, we know that a great walk is only half the adventure. Our luxury properties are specifically designed for walkers, featuring:
Dedicated Boot Rooms: Plenty of space to dry off your gear and store your hiking boots.
Private Hot Tubs & Saunas: The perfect way to soothe tired muscles—our “Hot Tub” property pages are among our most engaged!
Prime Locations: Stay right in the heart of the fells in Ambleside, Bowness, or Kendal.
Ready to explore? Check our availability for your next hiking retreat.
Share This Post: