The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Grasmere
4.6
(11886)
100,863
hikers
705
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Grasmere are characterized by a diverse landscape of tranquil lakes, distinctive fells, and serene woodlands. The region, nestled in the Lake District, features prominent bodies of water like Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water, alongside fells such as Silver How and Helm Crag. Numerous tarns, including Easedale Tarn and Alcock Tarn, and cascading waterfalls like Sourmilk Gill, add to the varied terrain. The area offers a network of paths ranging from gentle lakeside strolls to moderate ascents through ancient woodlands.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Grasmere
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is View of Grasmere Lake – Silver How loop from Lakes, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This route offers panoramic views of Grasmere Lake and the surrounding fells.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Grasmere Lakeshore – Alcock Tarn loop from Grasmere, a moderate 3.4 miles (5.5 km) path. This trail features a gentle ascent through woodland to Alcock Tarn, providing views of Windermere and Helm Crag.
- Local hikers also love the Silver How – Easedale Tarn loop from Lakes, a 7.5 miles (12.1 km) trail leading through fells and valleys, often completed in about 4 hours 2 minutes.
- Hiking around Grasmere is defined by tranquil lakes, distinctive fells, and serene woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside walks to moderate climbs.
- The routes in Grasmere are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 11,000 reviews. More than 95,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Grasmere's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.5
(66)
1,016
hikers
7.08km
02:02
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(47)
743
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(18)
150
hikers
20.8km
07:02
920m
920m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.4
(9)
127
hikers
17.7km
06:01
750m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(43)
272
hikers
11.9km
03:59
480m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Pike of Stickle is a great rocky outcrop of rock with a decent scramble to get to the top. There are rock steps going up the lower slope on the first part, and then there are two ways to scramble up to the top. You can go around to the right, which is supposed to be the easiest way, but I found going up direct to be fine. It requires you to use both your hands and feet, but there are plenty of holds. There are super views across to Loft Crag, Harrison Stickle, and the peaks surrounding the entire Mickleden Valley.
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Tarn Crag is a 549-metre (1,801 ft) Wainwright that overlooks stunning Easedale and Codale Tarns near Grasmere. If you come across from Blea Rigg, it is a marvellous walk down to Codale Tarn and then up to Tarn Crag. The walk back down to Grasmere village from here is also super nice.
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Blea Rigg is a pretty rugged 541-metre-high Wainwright renowned for its rocky, rugged top. It has great views across to the Langdale Pikes and Coniston Fells from here and is normally accessed via hikes from Grasmere or Langdale.
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Silver How is a 395-metre (1,296 ft) Wainwright is easily accessed from Grasmere village. The hike up from there is particularly nice, and it's quite a steady ascent. There are great views of Grasmere and Rydal Water from its cairned summit. You can either do an up-and-back hike or continue round to do a loop up around Blea Rigg.
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Gibson Knott is a 422-metre (1,385-foot) Wainwright fell, featuring a rocky, undulating ridge walk often combined with Calf Crag and Helm Crag as a panoramic ridge walk overlooking Easedale and Greenburn Valleys. The summit is marked by a small, unassuming cairn on a rocky knoll that has super nice views of the surrounding fells.
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Calf Crag is a 537-metre (1,762 ft) Wainwright in the Central Fells. It is a great spot that is popular for its panoramic views over Grasmere. A great hike is to walk up Easedale Valley to hike Calf Crag along with Steel Fell, Gibson Knott, and Helm Crag in one ridge walk. The summit is marked by a cairn and offers expansive views of the surrounding fells.
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Easily climbed from its eastern face with some light scrambling. More challenging scramble to the summit on its northern face
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Right at the centre of the Lake District High Raise offers a panoramic view of the Lake District on a bright clear day. Can be climbed from many aspects including Langdale, Grasmere, Thirlmere or Borrowdale for a variety of different challenges
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Grasmere?
Grasmere offers a wide variety of hiking options suitable for families. You'll find over 200 easy routes and more than 300 moderate trails, providing plenty of choices for all ages and abilities.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Grasmere is excellent for circular walks. A popular choice is the Grasmere Lakeshore – Alcock Tarn loop. This moderate 5.5 km trail offers a gentle ascent through woodland, beautiful views, and a perfect spot for a picnic and paddling at Alcock Tarn. Another option is the 2.7-mile circular trail around Grasmere Lake itself, which is very gentle.
Which trails offer the best views for families?
For magnificent panoramic views, consider the View of Grasmere Lake – Silver How loop. This moderate 5 km trail ascends Silver How, rewarding you with stunning vistas of Grasmere Lake and the surrounding fells. Loughrigg Fell also offers a full 360-degree view from its summit, including Windermere and the Langdales.
Are there any trails with waterfalls that are suitable for families?
Absolutely! The path leading to Easedale Tarn passes by the beautiful cascading waterfalls of Sourmilk Gill. While the full Silver How – Easedale Tarn loop is longer and more challenging, sections of the route to Sourmilk Gill can be enjoyed by families looking for a waterfall experience.
What are some interesting natural landmarks or attractions to see along the trails?
Beyond the stunning lakes and fells, you can explore several natural highlights. The Path along the River Rothay offers a serene walk, and the Deerbolts Wood Descent provides lovely views. You might also enjoy the unique rock formations of Helm Crag, known as 'The Lion and the Lamb'.
Are there any pushchair-friendly walks in Grasmere?
While many trails involve uneven terrain, the path directly around Grasmere Lake offers relatively flat sections suitable for sturdy pushchairs. The low-level 'Coffin Route' between Grasmere and Rydal is also a gentle linear walk that might be suitable in parts, depending on the specific pushchair and ground conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Grasmere?
The Grasmere area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 11,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the diverse range of trails for all abilities, and the peaceful atmosphere of the lakes and fells.
Are there places to picnic or paddle along the family trails?
Yes, Grasmere is ideal for family picnics and paddling. The southern shore of Grasmere Lake is a popular spot for picnics. Alcock Tarn, reached via the Grasmere Lakeshore – Alcock Tarn loop, is also perfect for a picnic and offers opportunities for paddling in its clear waters.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Grasmere?
Grasmere is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant colours and milder temperatures. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter hikes can be magical, but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
Are there any family-friendly activities or places to visit near the trails?
Beyond hiking, families can enjoy rowing boats on Grasmere Lake, available for hire at Faeryland Grasmere Tea Garden and Boat Hire. The area also has a rich literary history, being the home of William Wordsworth, and exploring the scenery that inspired him can add a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.
Where can we find parking for family-friendly hikes in Grasmere?
Grasmere village has several public car parks, which serve as convenient starting points for many local trails. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. Some trailheads outside the village may have limited roadside parking.
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