The best walks and hikes around Bampton

This guide focuses on Bampton in Cumbria, located on the eastern edge of the Lake District National Park near Penrith. It's a starting point for exploring the fells and reservoirs of the area, such as Haweswater. It is not the Bampton in Oxfordshire famous for its 'Downton Abbey' filming locations.

The hiking terrain around Bampton is classic Lake District. Expect a mix of lakeside paths along reservoirs like Haweswater, ascents up grassy fells, and rocky, uneven ground on the higher ridges and peaks. Many routes involve significant elevation gain, so sturdy footwear is essential.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For a moderately challenging loop with varied scenery, consider the Old Church – Knipescar Common loop from Bampton. It's a great way to experience the local landscape without committing to a full-day mountain expedition.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Bampton. However, this is sheep country, and you will be walking through areas with livestock. Always keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (typically spring). Also, be mindful of stiles that may be difficult for larger dogs to cross.

For hikes starting at the southern end of Haweswater Reservoir, the Mardale Head car park is a popular and highly-regarded starting point. It provides direct access to trails leading up to High Street and Harter Fell. Be aware that it can get very busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Yes, for a shorter and less strenuous outing that's suitable for families, the Haweswater Reservoir loop from Bampton is a great choice. At just over 4 miles (6.6 km), it offers beautiful reservoir views without the steep climbs of the higher fells.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the eastern fells offer demanding routes with significant elevation. The area is known for long, strenuous ridge walks that reward you with incredible views. A prime example is the Haweswater Reservoir, High Street & Selside Pike loop, a full-day mountain adventure covering over 16 miles.

The trails around Bampton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic scenery of the Haweswater valley, the sense of remoteness on the high fells, and the rewarding panoramic views from peaks like High Street.

You can discover over 20 hiking routes around Bampton on komoot. These range from easy lakeside strolls to difficult, full-day mountain epics, offering options for various fitness and experience levels.

Yes, the famous Coast to Coast Walk, one of Britain's most popular long-distance trails, passes through the region near Bampton. The section between Patterdale and Shap goes over the High Street ridge, offering some of the most spectacular and remote hiking of the entire route.

The summit of High Street, a Roman road that runs along the high fell tops, offers some of the best panoramic views in the eastern Lake District. On a clear day, you can see across Haweswater Reservoir and over to the Helvellyn range. The shoreline path of the Haweswater Reservoir – Mardale Head loop from Bampton also provides stunning, lower-level views of the fells reflecting in the water.