The best walks and hikes around Little Strickland

There are over 240 hiking routes around Little Strickland, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include options for easy strolls, moderate treks, and more challenging climbs, catering to different fitness levels.

The hiking trails around Little Strickland offer a range of difficulties. You'll find over 100 easy routes, more than 110 moderate trails, and about 20 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every hiker.

Yes, many of the routes around Little Strickland are circular. For example, the Low Gardens Bridge – Lowther Castle loop from Lowther Castle Park and Gardens is a popular circular trail exploring the Lowther River area. Another option is the Chippy Chippy – Fairy Crag loop from Shap, which offers views towards Fairy Crag.

The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can enjoy views of significant fells like Steel Knotts (Pikeawassa), Loadpot Hill, and Selside Pike, which offer expansive vistas towards Ullswater and Haweswater. Highlights include the Loadpot Hill Trig Point and the Pikeawassa (Steel Knotts summit). The trails also pass through valleys and near rivers, showcasing the varied Cumbrian landscape.

Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore historical sites like the The Cockpit Stone Circle. The nearby village of Pooley Bridge, visible from some fells, also offers amenities and is a pleasant spot to visit. Many routes, such as the Low Gardens Bridge – Lowther Castle loop, explore the grounds around Lowther Castle.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Little Strickland, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from open fells with expansive views to peaceful paths along rivers and through common land. The variety of easy, moderate, and difficult routes is also frequently appreciated.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular starting points for hikes, such as those near Lowther Castle Park and Gardens or the village of Shap, typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions for detailed parking information before you go.

Many trails in the Lake District area, including those around Little Strickland, are dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in areas with ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code and check specific route details for any restrictions.

Yes, there are numerous family-friendly hiking options. With over 100 easy routes, you can find gentle walks suitable for all ages. Trails exploring areas like the Lowther River, such as the Low Gardens Bridge – Lowther Castle loop from Helton, are often good choices for families.

Hiking around Little Strickland is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can offer dramatic, snow-dusted landscapes, though some higher fells may require more experience and appropriate gear due to potentially challenging conditions.

The region offers amenities for hikers. The nearby village of Pooley Bridge, for instance, provides pubs and shops where you can find refreshments or a meal. For accommodation, there are various options ranging from guesthouses to hotels in the surrounding Cumbrian villages, suitable for an overnight stay before or after your hike.