There are countless options for outdoor exploration among the Lake District’s towering peaks, gentle slopes, and picturesque bodies of water.
The Lakes are a delight to explore because of the availability of precise maps, well-marked routes, and several adventure centres, not to mention the fact that they are home to England’s highest peak and breath-taking scenery for as far as the eye can see.
There is an almost dizzying number of hiking paths, fells, and summits to explore, regardless of your level of hiking experience. With this list of the top Lake District hikes, we’ve done our best to provide you with a suitable place to begin your explorations of this beautiful region.
Keep reading to find the best Lake District hiking trails…
Derwentwater
Keswick
Lake District
Cumbria
England
Derwentwater is the feather in Keswick’s cap. Situated just 15 minutes walk from the market square in Keswick town centre, this three-mile-long lake is fed by the River Derwent catchment area in the high fells at the head of Borrowdale. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became the inspiration for romantic poets.
view more information
Derwentwater Marina
Portinscale
Keswick
Lake District
England
CA12 5RF
01768772912
If you’re visiting Derwentwater and are hoping to get out onto the lake, you’ll need to head to Derwentwater Marina. From here you can choose from a selection of crafts including paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, rowing or pedalos.
view more information
Dodd Wood
Little Crosthwaite
Keswick
Lake District
England
CA12 4QD
Dodd Wood is situated just a few miles north of Keswick and is home to a network of waymarked trails, many of which are ideal for younger children. There is also the steeper Dodd Summit trail, for those looking for more of a challenge.
view more information
Coniston
Lake District National Park
Cumbria
England
United Kingdom
LA20 6EG
The peak of Dow Crag stands at 2,552 feet tall in the Lake District National Park. It is situated near Coniston and is perfect for a hike with the family.
view more information
Easedale Tarn
Red Bank Road Car Park
Grasmere
Lake District
LA22 9PU
Easedale Tarn is situated around two miles west of the village of Grasmere, in a hollow between Tarn Crag and Blea Rigg. Take this six-mile walk to the tarn over stone bridges, past plunging waterfalls and along the edges of fells.
view more information
Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
Elterwater
Ambleside
Lake District
Cumbria
England
LA22 9HU
Take this walk along the Cumbrian Way in the Langdale Valley from Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge. The walk is 2.5 miles and takes around 2-3 hours to complete and is suitable for children.
view more information
Ennerdale Water and Smithy Beck Falls
Bowness Knott Car Park
Cleator
Lake District
England
CA23 3AX
Take this two-mile walk from one of the Lake District’s hidden gems. Ennerdale Water is one of the least visited lakes in the Lake District and sits nestled within a remote part of West Cumbria. The walk takes around one to two hours and is ideal for little ones.
view more information
Giggle Alley
Smithybrow Lane
Holmrook
Lake District
England
CA19 1UF
Giggle Alley is nestled on the western edge of the Lake District National Park, close to the village of Eskdale Green. With diverse woodland and a Japanese Garden, it’s a popular spot with visitors. Hop off the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway at Irton Road and find this gem just a short walk away.
view more information
Glenridding to Lanty's Tarn
Glenridding
Lake District
England
CA11 0PA
Take this short, tranquil walk around Ullswater and up to Lanty’s Tarn. While this tarn may not offer views as dramatic as nearby tarns, it is a peaceful hidden gem that allows walkers to get away from the crowds. The walk is suitable for dogs and children.
view more information Grasmere to Alcock Tarn
Town End
Grasmere
Ambleside
Lake District
LA22 9SH
Walk this four-mile circular route that will take you past William Wordsworth’s old home and the fells beyond. Alcock Tarn itself makes for a wonderful picnic spot and there are plenty of cafés awaiting you on your return to Grasmere – the perfect reward for your efforts!
view more information