The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Brothers Water
4.6
(10171)
90,114
hikers
360
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Brothers Water are situated in the Hartsop valley within the eastern Lake District. The area is characterized by a serene lake, surrounding woodlands, and diverse fells. Trails offer views of the water and lead to the charming Hartsop village, featuring 17th-century stone buildings. The region also provides access to Kirkstone Pass, a dramatic mountain pass offering panoramic views.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Brothers Water
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Brothers…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
4.6
(18)
184
hikers
4.13km
01:06
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(43)
341
hikers
14.4km
04:35
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(25)
301
hikers
11.8km
05:27
810m
810m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(30)
276
hikers
9.86km
03:58
710m
710m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(27)
220
hikers
11.2km
04:10
670m
670m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Brothers Water
Other adventures around Brothers Water
Tips from the Community
High Hartsop Dodd is not really a mountain summit. It is the tail end of a marvellous ring of Wainwrights if you have been doing the Dovedale Round. There are fine views from here across to Hartsop Dodd itself and over Brothers Water. It has a small cairn on its smooth broad summit.
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Middle Dodd is a great little Wainwright, and it is really just a minor summit on the north ridge of Red Screes. It has a fine pyramidal peak when seen from Brother's Water area, and if you are coming down from Red Screes, you won't have much of a problem getting to it. There are great views down towards Patterdale and Ullswater from here.
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Red Screes, at a rocky 776 meters (2,546 feet), is famous for its steep approach from Red Screes. It's a good, stiff walk and can be a bit hands-on here and there, but the trail is good and well marked. It has a trig point and a stone shelter at the summit. It is wise to be careful here in poor visibility, as the drops are severe. I would make a comment about the views, but I couldn't see much today.
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Stony Cove Pike, which is alternatively known as Caudale Moor, sits on a complex ridge system, and when you come over from Harstop Dodd, you follow a long, rather scenic wall. There are good views to be had here over towards the Fairfield tops, including Red Screes.
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Hartsop Dodd looms over the village like a sleeping giant over the village from where it gets its name. Its 618-metre-high lush green bulk simply dominates the valley. There is no easy way up from this scenic valley, and the ascent going up is nothing short of lung-busting. However, the views of Gray Crag and Fairfield from here are simply super nice.
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Hartsop Above How sits between Hart Crag and Gale Crag by boggy undulating ground that drops northeast towards Patterdale. There is no prominent summit marker here, just an outcrop of just a broad mound of earth. I would have liked to have said something about the views, but I didn't see anything today.
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Gray Crag is literally just down the road from the imposing beacon of Thornthwaite Crag. It is on a lumpy knoll on a quiet, grassy plateau of a summit that sits at 638 m (2,093 ft). It has super nice panoramic views over Kentmere and Haweswater. Gray Crag looks super beautiful when viewed from Hartsop or the Angletarn area from the north, as the north face of Gray Crag is super steep and imposing. It has a very good, decent trail, but it is steep.
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Thornthwaite Crag is just the coolest Wainwright. At 784 m / 2,572 ft, it is a prominent summit in its own right, but with its massive 14-foot (4.3-metre) high stone beacon, it serves as a navigation hub connecting several major valleys and ridges. It is unmistakable for miles around and makes a good aiming point for runners and hikers alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Brothers Water?
Brothers Water offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 350 routes in the area. Among these, you'll find more than 100 trails specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several lovely circular options. For a gentle and scenic stroll perfect for families, consider the Brothers Water loop from Cow Bridge. This easy route skirts the lake, offering beautiful views and a tranquil experience.
What kind of natural features and landmarks can we expect to see on a family hike?
The area around Brothers Water is rich in natural beauty and historical charm. You'll encounter the serene lake itself, often adorned with water lilies in July. The picturesque Hartsop village, with its 17th-century stone farm buildings, and the historic Hartsop Hall (owned by the National Trust) are also notable features. Higher routes offer panoramic views of the fells and valleys.
Are the trails around Brothers Water suitable for pushchairs or toddlers?
While many paths are natural and can be uneven, some sections, particularly around the lake shore, are more accessible. For very young children or pushchairs, stick to the flatter, well-trodden paths directly adjacent to Brothers Water. Always check the route details for terrain information before you go.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
Yes, Brothers Water is a fantastic place for dog-friendly walks. Most trails welcome dogs, but please keep them on a lead, especially around livestock and to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit Brothers Water for family hiking?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and the chance to see water lilies blooming in July. Autumn brings stunning foliage. While beautiful, winter can make some paths muddy or icy, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Where can we find parking near the family hiking trails?
Parking is available at various points around Brothers Water, including near Cow Bridge, which is a popular starting point for lakeside walks. Always check local signage for parking regulations and fees.
Are there any cafes or pubs nearby for refreshments after a hike?
Yes, the historic Kirkstone Inn is located at the summit of Kirkstone Pass, a short climb from Brothers Water, offering refreshments. The nearby villages also provide options for food and drink, perfect for a post-hike treat.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on a family hike around Brothers Water?
Brothers Water is nestled in the 'valley of the deer,' so you might be lucky enough to spot deer. The tranquil environment also supports various bird species and other small mammals. Keep an eye out for the distinctive water lilies on the lake in summer.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the stunning lake views, and the sense of being in a 'hidden gem' away from the busier parts of the Lake District. The variety of terrain, from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging fells, is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for older children?
For families with older children looking for a bit more challenge, the Brothers Water – Angle Tarn loop from Caudale Moor offers a moderate, longer route with rewarding views. Another good option is the Hartsop Above How – Brothers Water loop from Caudale Moor, which provides a more elevated perspective of the valley.
Most popular routes around Brothers Water
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