The best walks and hikes around Lakes

There are over 600 hiking routes to explore in the Lake District on komoot. They range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain expeditions, with plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The trails are very highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the fell tops and the variety of the landscape, from serene lakeshores to dramatic rocky ridges.

Yes, the Lake District has many trails suitable for families. The region offers numerous gentle paths around lakes like Grasmere and Derwentwater. With over 180 easy-rated hikes, you can find plenty of shorter, less strenuous options that still provide beautiful scenery.

Dogs are widely welcomed on trails in the Lake District. However, it's a major sheep-farming area, so you must keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (typically spring). Also be mindful of steep sections, scrambles, and stiles that might be difficult for some dogs.

For a demanding day out, consider the Angle Tarn, Scafell Pike & Bowfell loop from Great Langdale. This is a long and strenuous route that summits England's highest peak and involves significant elevation gain, rewarding you with some of the most epic views in the country.

Absolutely. A popular option is the Rydal Cave, Loughrigg Fell & Grasmere loop, which takes you to a large man-made cavern. The region is also famous for its waterfalls, known as 'forces'. Aira Force near Ullswater is one of the most well-known and has lovely surrounding walking trails.

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential as trails can be rocky and boggy. The weather changes rapidly, so always carry waterproof layers (jacket and trousers), even on a sunny day. A map, compass, and a fully charged phone are critical for navigation. For longer fell walks, pack extra layers, food, water, and a headtorch.

In the Lake District, 'fells' is the local name for the mountains and hills that characterize the region. A 'tarn' is a small mountain lake or pond, often found in a high valley or cirque carved by glaciers. Many hikes lead to these scenic and often remote tarns.

Yes, many popular hiking areas are accessible by bus. Services like the 555 and 599 connect key towns like Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick, which serve as gateways to numerous trails. During the summer, open-top buses offer scenic journeys into valleys like Great Langdale and Borrowdale.

Parking can be very challenging, especially during peak season and on weekends. Car parks in popular spots like the Langdale valleys, Wasdale Head (for Scafell Pike), and Grasmere fill up early in the morning. It's best to arrive early or consider using a park-and-ride service or public transport.

A 'horseshoe walk' is a classic type of fell walk in the Lake District that follows a circular ridge of mountains surrounding a valley, creating a horseshoe shape on a map. This allows you to summit multiple peaks in one continuous hike with sustained views. The Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the most famous examples.

Yes, there are many excellent circular routes. The Helm Crag loop from Grasmere is a fantastic option. It's under 5 miles (8 km) and offers a rewarding climb to a distinctive summit with great views over the valley, making it a perfect walk that won't take up your entire day.