A Little Beauty… The Ultimate Guide to Walking in the Lake District, England

Last updated on August 2, 2025 by Shannon

Sparkling lakes glistened in the warm evening light as my train sped through England to the far northwest corner, where Lake District National Park sits like a jewel. I had just come from London and the chance to immerse in nature called to me.

I admired spectacular rolling hills in rich green hues and the dots of white speckling the creek as sheep wandered their pastures, oblivious to the glorious sunset unfolding over the English countryside.

Is the Lakes District Worth Visiting?

The eternal question that hovers in the mind of every discerning traveler: Is it worth it? The Lake District, with its lush landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, begs this question to be asked and answered.

The allure of the Lake District is undeniable, a siren’s call for anyone ready for tranquility and beauty. When I first arrived, I had wandered straight into a Jane Austen novel. It was an intoxicating shift from the metropolitan whirl of London—here, time seemed to move at a gentler cadence, dictated not by train timetables or meeting schedules, but by the whispering winds and the soft lap of lake water against the shore.

Each day stretched ahead of me like a blank canvas, waiting to be filled not with obligations, but with discoveries.

The landscape itself is the stuff of English literature, and rightly so. With its 16 lakes stitched into the quilt of England’s rolling hills and rugged mountains, the Lake District is precisely the idyllic setting I’d conjured while reading classics like “Pride and Prejudice” and “Jane Eyre.”

Imagine taking long, contemplative walks starting from the shimmering waters of Lake Windermere, or drifting by boat to charming hamlets like Ambleside. I constantly found myself a participant in a living tableau that has inspired poets, novelists, and dreamers for centuries.

Part of the Lake District’s unique charm is also the cultural imprints left behind by beloved figures like Beatrix Potter. Here, among the English gardens and quaint cottages, it’s easy to find yourself and your kids transported to the pages of her timeless tales.

The Lake District also proudly holds the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage site, a recognition that speaks to its unparalleled natural beauty and cultural significance. This status underscores the timeless allure of the area, marrying its rich literary history to landscapes that have remained remarkably unchanged over the centuries.

So, is the Lake District worth visiting?

If the idea of living out the scenes from your favorite Victorian novels while enveloped in a landscape so beautiful it could only be rivaled by a watercolor painting appeals to you, then yes, pack some waterproof hiking shoes and head to the Lake District. It’s an experience, a passage back in time, and a balm for the weary soul.

Best Things to Do in the Lake District of England

The Lake District, a collection of natural wonders and cultural landmarks, offers a breadth of experiences ideal for adventurers, solace-seekers, and literary enthusiasts alike. There’s enough things to do and walk to take that you could fill several weeks. So you’ll need to be selective with less time.

For those seeking the thrill of conquering peaks, there’s an ascent up Skiddaw or Helvellyn, where you’re rewarded with panoramas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

For those drawn to the tranquil beauty of water, a boat trip across Lake Windermere to the charming hamlet of Ambleside nourished my soul.

And no visit is complete without paying homage to the poetic and literary roots of the region, whether it’s wandering through Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or stepping into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world near Lake Windermere.

Yet, the Lake District’s true allure lies in its ability to offer more than just activities—it provides a deeply transformative experience. As you find yourself lost in thought along the quiet trails of the less-visited Ennerdale Valley, or catch the ethereal mist lifting over Derwentwater at dawn, you’ll come to realize that the best thing to do in the Lake District is to let it seep into your very being.

Each stone, each lake, each mountain and valley serves as a chapter in a larger narrative, inviting you not just to visit, but to become a part of the Lake District’s timeless story.

Cruise Lake Windermere from Bowness Bay

I stayed at a cozy hostel in Windermere that was well connected to town and offered me a heap of advice. Since I wasn’t booking much of my trip ahead of time, my hostel was essentially the only one left with just a week’s notice—the area books up quickly!

Since my priority was clearing my lungs and getting to know the Lake Windermere area, I bought a boat ticket from the red cruise on Windermere Lake Cruises, and then walked the 20 minutes downhill from Windermere town center to the lakeside town of Bowness.

Budget accommodation is all located in town, while pricier places are positioned right on the lake. Although I could have stayed in Ambleside, I liked having a lot of food options, as well as ample places to seek advice on tours and walks.

Lake Windermere heaves with tourists during the summer season, and although the town had a fair number, it’s a crush of people by the waterside.

A bit overwhelmed, I bought myself an ice cream cone from the homemade ice cream shops liberally dotting the shoreline, which gave me a focus besides the elbowing crowds as I headed to the docks for the 30 minute boat ride to Ambleside, a smaller and more consumable little town further up Lake Windermere.

The boat ride is stunning.

As the end of my round the world trip neared, I splurged more on the activities that make a trip memorable. Although the GBP was really strong against the USD, the Lake District is not the place to pinch pennies—small splurges like taking a boat to Ambleside rather than driving are worth the price. Sitting on the water, I was a pinprick of life amidst vast green surrounding mountains.

The scale is incredible and best viewed from the water, where you can see everything rise up around you. The open-top boats allow for fantastic views, and I cruised across the waters with the cold wind pinking my cheeks and the crew sharing a small history lesson about the region.

The boats are also great for people watching. On the way back from Ambleside, I caught sight of a train of children in small individual boats. They were all strung together in a line of four small boats with two eight-year-old-sized children in each boat. An adult headed this parade of children as he motored toward shore.

As I watched these small boats glide past me, life-jacketed and enthusiastic kids waved, nearly tipping themselves in the process. But the kids in the last boat weren’t waving. Both little kids were using small buckets to empty water from their sinking boat.

Unsure of what to do, a group from our boat hailed the captain to let him know what was happening! Thankfully, the parade of children was close to shore and all made it out. The kids in the last boat were dripping wet and yet, in the careless fashion of children, seemingly unfazed by the fact that they nearly had to swim 200 meters to shore!

Amble Through Charming Ambleside

The Lake District in England is the perfect place for, “just a bit of a wander,” as guesthouse owners and locals say.

This quaint phrase is just lovely. Framing a walk with the idea of “having a bit of a wander” sets a different mood than, say, “going for a walk”—even going “out for a stroll” just doesn’t have quite the same charming ring to it.

With a wandering mentality front and center after disembarking from my cruise to Ambleside, I hit the ground wandering. Ambleside, like Windermere, is not actually at the water’s edge.

Instead the town is a mile inland and a solid 25 minute walk. A small trolley-like car loaded up the families and elderly for a few pounds each, but I chose to hoof it up to the town so that I could explore the local parks along the way, as well as Roman ruins. It’s a perfectly lovely walk for a bit, then it’s rather fenced and decidedly not lovely for about 10 minutes, until you reach the town center.

You should probably just take the trolley when visiting.

And since getting lost seems to be the theme of my travels, as readers well know, let’s just say that I have really, really explored Ambleside.

The tourist lady in Windermere hooked me up with a map of Ambleside before I arrived and she marked a rough route through town that would take in the best parks, and then cap off my time with a 45 minute walking loop to the scenic Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall near Ambleside.

The path out of town and to the waterfall is not well marked! But asking the locals for directions, backtracking, walking down the wrong small and tiny winding lanes, and then finally locating the right street was half of the fun. :)

Walk the Loop to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfalls

Ambleside is a touristy town. All of the Lake District is touristy in August, as I mentioned, so it’s important to take walks out of town to truly experience the best of the nearby nature.

Sidewalks in these small towns overflow with sticky children paying more attention to their ice cream cones than the sidewalk, frazzled moms pushing strollers, and families chasing after the above mentioned sticky toddlers!

It’s a fun vibe, but not the immersive nature most people hope for when planning a trip to the Lake District.

Considering the number of people in Ambleside, surprisingly few walked to the waterfall route. Which is a shame! It’s a simple trail and you can pack snacks and eat lunch near the river and waterfalls since there are plenty of benches and quite areas to tuck yourself away and enjoy the nature. That’s what I did to enjoy my packed lunch.

To do this walk, start in Ambleside near the Salutation Hotel and Doi Inthanon Thai restaurant. Follow signs for the “Waterfall” that lead you onto a well-marked footpath into the forest. The trail goes uphill for a bit, but is quite easy. It’s about a mile long, one way—you’ll veer right to take the loop, red arrows point the way, which keeps things flowing well.

Along the route, watch for the many benches where you can rest, eat, and take in the scenery.

The highlight is Stock Ghyll Force, a multi-tiered waterfall with a dramatic 70-foot drop. The sight and sound of the waterfall are quite captivating, making the 45 minute walk well worth it.

The entire loop is about 2 miles and offers a great opportunity to experience both the forest and the waterfall. This post summarizes the walk nicely.

Walk Through Rothay Park

Besides the waterfall, a huge park on the outskirts of the town offer tons of green space for kicking a ball or setting up a picnic, too.

Rothay Park is situated along the Rothay River and provides a lovely space for both relaxation and recreation. The park is popular among locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of facilities like children’s play areas, sports fields, and picnic spots. It’s an excellent place to unwind after exploring the nearby fells or after a visit to Stock Ghyll Force.

The park also serves as a starting point for several scenic walks, including those that follow the river, making it an integral part of the outdoor experience that Ambleside offers.

After resting in the grass—my “rest” turned into an accidental and impromptu nap—I wandered back through town, past the many boutiques and souvenir shops, and to the docks, which would take me back to Windermere for the night.

Being on a backpacker budget in the United Kingdom, and without a car, I wasn’t fortunate enough to visit many of the small Lake District towns dotting the region, but a couple staying at the hostel came from the northern Lake District and were quick to share that every town they visited oozed charm and offered its own scenic walks.

Additionally, I was staying in Windermere both because I liked being in the city, but also because the region was fully booked. On a future trip, I would love the chance to move around some, staying in different towns and exploring Hadrian’s Wall, too, which is close to the Lake District and well worth the visit according to other backpackers.

Best Walks & Sights from Windermere Town

The green sheep pastures of the Lake District were so stunning that I erupted into spontaneous dances of joy. I mean, if you know that you’re completely and truly alone—with only sheep as witness—how could you not revel in the nature, the clean air, and the solitude?

I made a pact with myself at the beginning of my yearlong trip that I would learn how to cartwheel by the end of the year. It didn’t happen. While I still can’t cartwheel (drats!), I spent a good while frolicking in the pastures practicing, and it was lovely to simply be in this gorgeous area.

Visit the Home of Beatrix Potter

England’s Lake District inspired poets the likes of William Wordsworth. It inspired fits of fancy from Beatrix Potter, creator of the Peter Rabbit stories. Potter so loved the region that she donated all of her land in the Lake District to the National Trust.

Today, thanks to her generosity, the National Trust owns huge swaths of land that welcome tourists like me to wander the lightly marked paths, to zigzag the English countryside, and to witness the unparalleled beauty of the lakes.

Her home is now a museum, Hill Top Farm, and it’s pristinely preserved. Even if you don’t have kids, you can still imagine Peter Rabbit might emerge the beautiful gardens!

Take the Orrest Head Walk

The Orrest Head Walk offers some of the most stunning views in the Windermere region, and the start of the walk is just a short distance from the Windermere town center. Even though the formal route is short, it’s a nice and moderate hike up to a viewpoint, I packed a lunch and decided to make more of a day out of it.

I wasn’t game for a strenuous hike, so I took the recommendation of the helpful woman at the information center, who recommended a lightly signposted path that leaves the peak and heads back to town on a large lazy loop through the surrounding farms.

She issued the six words I love to hate: “Don’t worry, you can’t get lost.”

Well, I assured her that I could and would and that it doesn’t bother me in the least. With an apple, water, and boiled egg and cheese sandwich packed into my daypack, I set off to explore the rolling green hills and gently sloping mountains around Windermere.

The view is all they say it will be. Stunning. Seriously stunning.

I was content to eat my lunch from a small stone bench at the top, and then I had a grand time winding my way back through the green fields while baa-ing at the sheep in their pastures the whole way back to town. Although the Lake District area is crawling with tourists I didn’t see another soul once I hit the pastures.

Word of caution: Although the walk to Orrest Head Walk is short and close to town, carry directions from the your guesthouse or the information center because the trail is not well marked! Even with directions, I backtracked several times before I found the route. And on the other side of the walk, I now think there’s a chance that I wasn’t even on the right path for most of the time!

Hike Skiddaw Mountain

Embarking on a trek to Skiddaw Mountain from Windermere is more than just a walk; it’s a pilgrimage through the heart of the Lake District, the epitome of England’s rugged natural beauty. If you find yourself in Windermere, captivated by its gentle lakes and quaint surroundings, then you might be wondering why you should venture further north to Skiddaw.

The answer is simple: Skiddaw provides a contrasting, yet complementary, experience to Windermere’s pastoral charm. Rising to 3,054 feet, Skiddaw offers panoramic vistas that extend across the district, adding a dose of awe to your already tranquil getaway.

Getting to Skiddaw from Windermere is straightforward if you’ve rented a car. A one-hour drive along the A591 will carry you through landscapes that gradually shift from lush greenery to dramatic fells and valleys. If you prefer public transport, a train to Penrith followed by a bus to Keswick will land you near Skiddaw’s base, but this method does require more planning and time.

As for the walk itself, Skiddaw is a mountain that doesn’t demand technical climbing skills, but still rewards you with views that can only be described as spellbinding. The most commonly used route, starting near Keswick, is a well-trodden path that beckons to seasoned trekkers and casual walkers alike.

As you ascend, you’ll notice the scenery morphing below you. The lakes start to appear like intricate puddles, the fells like mere ripples on the earth’s surface, and you, standing above it all, feeling both humbled and empowered.

The descent marks the conclusion of not just a hike, but an adventure that has carried you through contrasting facets of the Lake District, from Windermere’s serene lakes to Skiddaw’s towering presence. And as you make your way back, either by car or by public transit, you’ll find that the landscapes you pass through now hold new meaning, stitched into your own narrative of discovery in this remarkable corner of England.

Go More Remote in Ennerdale Valley

Windermere’s serene ambiance often leads travelers to explore other parts of the Lake District. Ennerdale Valley is one such locale, a less-visited area approximately 45 miles west of Windermere. Offering a different kind of outdoor experience, Ennerdale is an appealing choice for those looking to escape crowds and have a more secluded walking adventure.

So, why venture out to Ennerdale Valley? Unlike some popular Lake District destinations, Ennerdale is quieter, partly because cars are restricted beyond certain points. This makes it a suitable place for those who prefer walking without the accompanying soundtrack of vehicular noise. If you appreciate a setting where nature is the dominant force, Ennerdale provides just that.

The most straightforward way to get there from Windermere is by car, taking the A66 and A5086, a journey that usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. If you’re relying on public transport, options are available but will extend your travel time considerably. Parking is available near Ennerdale Bridge, from which various walking paths into the valley originate.

Once you’re there, walking in Ennerdale Valley offers a chance to observe a landscape shaped by natural forces, thanks to the Wild Ennerdale project that emphasizes minimal human intervention. The flora and fauna are diverse, with a mix of native trees and grazing cattle. The paths range from well-maintained routes to faint tracks through the grass, giving you choices in how adventurous you want to be. The terrain is framed by the hills of Pillar and Steeple, among others, and bisected by the River Liza, adding visual interest to your trek.

In summary, a walk in Ennerdale Valley serves as a good contrast to the more populated areas of the Lake District like Windermere. It allows you to engage with the English countryside in a quieter, less altered setting. The experience is less about overwhelming awe and more about subtle appreciation, adding a different layer to your Lake District visit.

Four Other Great Walks in Windermere

1. Wansfell Pike: This moderately challenging walk takes you to the summit of Wansfell Pike, which offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The route starts at Troutbeck village and takes about 3 hours to complete.
2. Tarn Hows: This is a gentle walk near Windermere that takes you around Tarn Hows, a picturesque lake nestled in the fells. Although marked as moderate, the great trail conditions make this route is suitable for all abilities and takes about 2.5 hours to complete.
3. Old Man of Coniston and Brim Fell Circular: This moderate to strenuous walk near Windermere is very popular and takes you to the summit of Old Man of Coniston, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding fells and lakes. The route starts at the village of Coniston and takes about 4 hours to complete. Choose to walk clockwise if you have dry weather, otherwise counter-clockwise is likely the better choice.
4. Grizedale Forest and Knot Coppice Circular: This is a network of trails that takes you through Grizedale Forest, a beautiful forested area with stunning views of the lake and surrounding fells. There are trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels to suit all abilities, but generally plan on a moderate hike that will take just over two hours.

Before setting out on any walk, make sure to check the weather forecast and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

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Backpacking the Lake District is perfect for solo travelers like me, who can enjoy a good party, but are more content to explore the nature, culture, and history of a place. Being an active area of the country, the other backpackers were similarly minded—everyone was visiting for the walking, hiking, and boating.

I loved that each night in the common room we all gathered and ended a hard day of walking with hot cups of tea and a fierce games of Cluedo.

Hikers are, by and large, a friendly group. The physical nature of the activity creates a selection process of others keen to take in fresh air and exercise. Everyone on the trails were friendly—they said “hi,” stopped for a chat when I was at a lookout, and generally made me feel less alone even though I walked and hiked solo each day. 

Hiking is one of the ways that I survived living in Los Angeles LA for two years—it got me out of the city and showed me that there were actually others who needed a break from the sheer LA-ness of the big city.

The Lake District, despite being insanely touristy, is fantastic because you can escape from the bustle of day-trippers and sink into nature. You can explore the bigger towns, and the tiny ones, too.

Also, I cannot stress enough the helpfulness of the tourist information offices in Lake District. Because of the huge volume of tourists coming through every summer, they can sort you on most anything you want to do in the region, from biking to walking, hiking, and even some more daring adventure activities.

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How to Plan a Trip to Lake District National Park

Getting Around

You’ll be enjoying a national park and as such a delicate habitat. England, in general, has amazing public transportation, and the Lake District specifically has extensive options of buses, explorer buses, trains, ferries, and boats that make it very easy to explore without a rental car (and they deeply encourage travelers to opt for this route). 

The National Park’s website has links to timetables for public transport in every city and region and is a great starting point.

When to Go

Summer is the best time as you have a chance at sunshine, a bit less rain (lowest rainfalls occur between April and August), and the countryside is stunningly green. It can be blustery cold on the walks in winter, and some passes and roads close during heavy rains.

Where to Stay

It’s a big area, so depending on your budget and your goals, you may choose to stay in Keswick, Windermere, or the smaller towns.

In Keswick, which is the most highly-rated town for tourist-to-nature ratio, the YHA Keswick is both budget and in a beautiful location, while Howe Keld is just an exceptional B&B ideal for mid-range travelers.

The YHAs in Windermere and Ambleside are both great budget options, or for midrange opt for Puddle Duck Lodge in Bowness-on-Windermere or The Fisherbeck in Ambleside.

You should also look for an apartment on VRBO if you’re traveling in a group—this is a fantastic way to have access to a kitchen, and also accommodate a lot of people on a budget.

Festivals of Note

In late summer, most towns in the Lake District have a bevy of festivals. Look out for:

• Keswick Beer Festival
• Lake District Summer Music Festival
• Borrowdale Fell Race

The National Parks site keeps a full event calendar.

Things to Do

There’s a lot to see depending on where you stay. A road trip might allow you to see more, and there are some gorgeous drives, but you can also see a lot using public transport options.

• Windermere: Windermere Lake Cruises has a range of options for Lake Windermere. Two great walks from Windermere Town include: Post Knott and Brantfell and Orrest Head Walk. Discover all things Beatrix Potter at her Hill Top Farm and the Beatrix Potter Gallery.
• Keswick: If you’re staying in Keswick, opt for an evening cruise around Derwentwater. If you have a car or time for a day trip, the Castlerigg Stone Circle outside Keswick is pretty iconic ring of Neolithic stones that you won’t want to miss. Two great walks near Keswick include: Catbells High Ridge Hike and Buttermere Walk. For a moderately more challenging hike and a chance to see a different area, the Lanty’s Tarn and Keldas Hill hike takes in Ullswater.

What to Read

The Rough Guide to the Lake District is the best guidebook if you want the nitty-gritty details and a good bit of history, too.

If you’re looking for a more mid-range overview of what to see and do, you the Top 10 Eyewitness Guide for the era is just great.

And if you are a true Potter fan, then Walking with Beatrix Potter is fabulous—great walks and details you’ll love, too. 

For fiction, freshen up on I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, a famous poem by William Wordsworth that was inspired by the region. There are all sorts of modern mysteries and thrillers set in the region if you prefer the light and fanciful reads. The Shepherd’s Life: Modern Dispatches from an Ancient Landscape—is hands-down the best non-fiction book and it’s a beautiful, highly rated must-read.

Lake District General Travel Tips

The Lake District is a beautiful region of England with a variety of outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery—use these tips to ensure you’re prepared for your time in Windermere, or other cities and towns.

Choose Versatile Clothing

The Lake District experiences unpredictable weather, making it crucial to pack items that can handle various conditions. Opt for layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, quality walking shoes, and essentials like a hat and gloves to stay warm and dry.

Plan Your Itinerary Wisely

The region offers a multitude of experiences, from hiking and boating to exploring quaint villages. It’s advisable to pre-plan your activities and sights to maximize your trip. Make accommodation and transport bookings that align with your planned activities as accommodation does book up during high season.

Preserve the Environment

The Lake District is a designated protected area, making it essential to minimize your impact on its natural beauty. Stick to marked trails, properly dispose of your waste, and avoid disturbing local wildlife.

Explore Off the Beaten Path

While the Lake District has popular attractions, it also boasts less-traveled spots worth exploring. Take the time to venture beyond the usual tourist paths to immerse yourself in local culture.

Prioritize Safety in Outdoor Activities

Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or boating, following established safety guidelines is paramount. Take necessary precautions to ensure that your Lake District adventure concludes without a hitch.

Links You Need to Plan Your Trip

You definitely want a reliable weather app, this England after all. Met Office is a reliable source for weather forecasts in the UK, including the Lake District.

Trail Maps and Routes

• Ordnance Survey Maps: This is the gold standard for British cartography. Their Lake District maps provide highly detailed information that will be invaluable for your walks.
• WalkLakes: Provides a good variety of walks around Windermere and the Lake District with details like difficulty level, distance, and elevation gain.
• AllTrails: Offers crowd-sourced trail maps, photos, and reviews. You can filter walks by length, rating, and difficulty level.

Other Useful Tools

• Visit Cumbria: The official tourism website for the region, offering a wide range of information including attractions, accommodation, and even guided walks.
• National Trust Lake District: Provides information on walking routes, places of interest, and how to be a responsible visitor in the Lake District, which is a National Trust protected area.
• Go Lakes: This resource offers a comprehensive look at what the Lake District has to offer, from walks to local attractions.