The best mountain hikes around Windermere

There are currently 7 mountaineering routes detailed around Windermere on komoot, offering a variety of experiences from moderate ascents to more challenging climbs. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

Yes, for those seeking a more demanding experience, the St Sunday Crag – Patterdale Village loop from Caudale Moor is classified as difficult. This 11.5-mile (18.5 km) trail involves significant elevation gain, leading through high fells and valleys, and typically takes around 7 hours to complete.

Mountaineering routes around Windermere feature a diverse landscape shaped by glacial activity. You'll encounter prominent fells, deep valleys, and numerous tarns. The terrain varies from lower slopes with wooded sections to exposed summits, offering significant elevation changes and a mix of paths.

Many of the routes around Windermere are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Wansfell Pike – Stock Ghyll Woods loop from Ambleside is a 7-mile (11.3 km) circular trail offering superb views over Windermere and Ambleside.

While there are no routes classified as 'easy' in this selection, several moderate routes can be suitable for those with some experience or active families. The View of Little Langdale Tarn – Slater's Bridge loop from Elterwater is a moderate 6.8-mile (11.0 km) path that explores the scenic Little Langdale valley, passing historic sites and tranquil tarns, making it a rewarding option.

The Windermere area is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. While on your mountaineering adventure, you might encounter highlights such as the Windermere Ferry Crossing, the scenic Bowness Bay, or the tranquil Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail. These routes often provide stunning views of the lake and surrounding fells.

Yes, many starting points for routes in the Lake District, including those near Windermere, are accessible by public transport. Local bus services connect towns like Ambleside and Elterwater, which are common starting points for mountaineering trails. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance.

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as trailheads, such as Ambleside, Elterwater, and Patterdale. These often include pay-and-display car parks. However, spaces can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. Some smaller starting points might have limited roadside parking.

The routes in Windermere are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, combining woodland sections with open mountain paths, and the rewarding views from the fells. The variety of terrain and the well-maintained paths are also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. For instance, the Grisedale Tarn – Dollywaggon Pike loop from Seat Sandal will take you past the beautiful Grisedale Tarn and up to Dollywaggon Pike, offering expansive views of the surrounding fells. Another route, Wetherlam – Summit of Swirl How loop from Holme Fell, provides stunning vistas from the summits of Wetherlam and Swirl How.

The best time for mountaineering around Windermere is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is generally milder and the days are longer. However, the Lake District weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions, even in summer. Winter mountaineering is possible but requires specialist equipment and experience due to snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours.