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Hello, wanderlust friends! If you’re holidaying in one of our charming Lake District properties and are as much in love with the great outdoors as we are, you’ll adore these circular walks we’ve handpicked for you. Suitable for all ages, these routes promise not only invigorating exercise but also breath-taking views and a good dose of fresh air. Lace up your boots, let’s get exploring!
1. Buttermere Circuit, Buttermere
Walk Duration: About 3 hours Parking: National Trust car park in Buttermere village (Google Maps link here)
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’ll 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 (Google Maps link here)
With its well-maintained path and relatively flat terrain, the 1.5-mile Tarn Hows loop is perfect for a leisurely family walk. Here, rolling hills gracefully enclose a picturesque tarn, dotted with small islands. The trail offers captivating 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 (Google Maps link here)
Starting at the stunning Aira Force waterfall, this 4.5-mile trail leads you to the summit of Gowbarrow Fell. You’ll 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 worth the effort. 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 (Google Maps link here)
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 (Google Maps link here)
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, setting the adventurous tone for your trek. The ascent is steep at points, but it’s the magnificent views of the surrounding Skiddaw and Blencathra ranges that’ll 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.
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?