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Hello Lake District Lover!
If you are holidaying in one of our charming properties and are as much in love with the great outdoors as we are, you will really enjoy these Lake District circular walks we have handpicked for you.
These routes are suitable for all ages and promise invigorating exercise, breathtaking views, and a good dose of fresh air.
So, lace up your boots, and let’s explore the Lake District National Park!
5 Lake District Circular Walks
- Buttermere Circuit, Buttermere
- Tarn Hows Loop, Coniston
- Aira Force to Gowbarrow Fell Walk, Ullswater
- Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water Walk, Grasmere
- Cat Bells Circular Walk, Keswick
1. Buttermere Circuit, Buttermere
Walk Duration: About 3 hours
Parking: National Trust car park in Buttermere village.
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/walking/mileswithoutstiles/mws25
Starting in the delightful village of Buttermere, this relatively easy 4.5-mile route takes you around the serene Buttermere Lake.
The flat path hugs the water’s edge, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks, including Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike.
Halfway through, you will find Gatesgarth Farm – an ideal picnic spot.
This peaceful and beautiful walk is a hit with families, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
2. Tarn Hows Loop, Coniston
Walk Duration: 1-2 hours
Parking: Tarn Hows car park.
https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/walking/mileswithoutstiles/mws13
The 1.5-mile Tarn Hows loop is perfect for a leisurely family walk with its well-maintained path and relatively flat terrain.
Here, rolling hills gracefully enclose a picturesque tarn, dotted with small islands.
The trail offers stunning views of the Langdale Pikes and Helvellyn range.
It’s accessible to wheelchairs and pushchairs, making it a favourite for families and elderly visitors.
3. Aira Force to Gowbarrow Fell Walk, Ullswater
Walk Duration: About 3-4 hours
Parking: Aira Force car park.
Starting at the stunning Aira Force waterfall, this 4.5-mile trail leads you to the summit of Gowbarrow Fell.
You will find yourself amidst woodland and fell-top, soaking in stunning views of Ullswater Lake and Blencathra mountain.
While it’s a slightly strenuous walk, the diverse landscapes and rewarding vistas make it worthwhile.
Don’t forget to pause at the waterfall’s stone bridge for a perfect photo opportunity!
4. Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water Walk, Grasmere
Walk Duration: About 3-4 hours
Parking: Broadgate Meadow car park, Grasmere.
https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_76.html
This 5.5-mile circular walk around Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water is an absolute joy.
Rich in literary heritage, this walk trails in the steps of famous poet William Wordsworth.
It offers a gentle terrain, peppered with charming white cottages, tranquil lake views, woodland, and vibrant wildflowers.
On your way, make sure to visit Wordsworth’s former homes: Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount.
5. Cat Bells Circular Walk, Keswick
Walk Duration: About 3-4 hours
Parking: Hawes End car park.
https://www.keswick.org/what-to-do/walking-routes/catbellswalkingroute
Cat Bells, overlooking the eastern shores of Derwentwater, offers a 3.5-mile circular walk that is as pleasing to beginners as it is to seasoned hikers.
Its appeal lies in its accessibility, stunning panoramic views, and rewarding sense of achievement.
The walk starts with a ferry ride from Keswick to Hawes End, which sets the adventurous tone for the trek.
The ascent is steep at points, but the magnificent views of the surrounding Skiddaw and Blencathra ranges will take your breath away!
The descent is gentler, winding through woodland and passing charming farmsteads.
This walk provides an excellent introduction to the fells of the Lake District, it’s truly an unforgettable trek for people of all ages.
Circular Walk in the Lake District – Some Final Notes
So there you have it, our hand-picked selection of the top five circular walks in the Lake District that cater to all ages.
With these fantastic options, we believe you’ll find a walk that suits your preferences and pace.
But remember, there’s so much more to the Lake District than just these walks.
Why not make your trip extra special by staying in one of our stylish, comfortable holiday properties?
Perfectly located and equipped with all the conveniences you need, our properties make the ideal home-away-from-home for your Lake District adventure.
Don’t wait to start planning your trip!
Check out our portfolio of properties now, and make your Lake District walking holiday a reality.
If you have any queries or need more information, please feel free to get in touch.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the stunning Lake District!
Adventure is calling, are you ready to answer?
