Easy hikes and walks around Windermere

There are over 35 easy hiking trails around Windermere, offering a variety of experiences from lakeside strolls to gentle ascents with panoramic views. In total, the region features 79 hiking routes across all difficulty levels.

Many easy routes around Windermere are circular. For example, the High Wray Bay Boathouses – Wray Castle loop from The Lakes School is a popular 3.4-mile trail offering lake views. Another option is the Post Knott – Brant Fell loop from Bowness-on-Windermere, which provides elevated perspectives over the town and fells.

Yes, Windermere offers several family-friendly options. Orrest Head is renowned for its accessible path and panoramic views, suitable even for pushchairs. Loughrigg Fell and Gummer's How also feature easy-to-follow paths and gentle slopes, making them ideal for families.

The best seasons for hiking in Windermere are typically spring (April-June) when wildflowers are in bloom, and autumn (September-November) for its vibrant foliage. The weather is generally milder during these periods, making for more comfortable walks.

Absolutely. The region is rich with natural features. Near Ambleside, you can find Stockghyll Force, a dramatic 70-foot waterfall accessible via woodland routes. For a beautiful tarn, High Dam offers splendid woodland walks and is a popular spot for locals, even for swimming.

Many easy trails provide stunning views of Lake Windermere. Orrest Head and Gummer's How are excellent choices for panoramic vistas. The Picnic Spot by Lake Windermere – Bark Barn and Ferry Pier loop from Bowness-on-Windermere also offers lovely lakeside perspectives.

Along easy trails, you can encounter various attractions. The High Wray Bay Boathouses – Wray Castle loop passes by historic Wray Castle. You might also see the Windermere Ferry Crossing, Bowness Bay, or the Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail, which offers great viewpoints.

Easy hikes around Windermere vary in length and duration. Many popular routes, such as the High Wray Bay Boathouses – Wray Castle loop (3.4 miles), can be completed in about 1 hour 26 minutes. Longer easy trails, like the Picnic Spot by Lake Windermere loop (3.8 miles), take around 1 hour 37 minutes.

While specific routes aren't listed with pubs, charming villages like Ambleside serve as excellent starting points for hikes and offer numerous amenities, including tea rooms and pubs. Many trails diverge from these villages, allowing you to combine your walk with a refreshment stop.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 4,400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from extensive lake shores to rolling fells and dense woodlands, and the accessibility of routes suitable for various ability levels.

Many easy trails around Windermere are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and along the lakeside. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with livestock or near wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.

While popular spots like Orrest Head are well-known, exploring areas like Claife Heights offers a picturesque escape into beautiful woodland with stunning lake views, including the historic Claife Viewing Station. High Dam, an artificial tarn, is also a local favorite for its tranquil woodland route and swimming opportunities.