Our 7 favourite walks in the Lake District

With diverse landscapes from mountains and lakes to forests, woodland and river valleys, the Lake District is exceptional walking territory. By choosing suitable routes for age, ability and walking experience, everyone can enjoy exploring this National Park on foot.

These seven walks in the Lake District cater to a range of requirements, from experienced hikers to families with young kids, with a variety of fantastic sights to be seen along each route.

The Gondola and Parkamoor Trail

The Lake District is all about water and wonderful landscapes, so it’s fitting to combine a walking route with an opportunity to see the area from the water. This isn't just any boat, mind you, but a steam yacht gondola.

The Gondola and Parkamoor Trail begins with a gondola trip before proceeding into woodland and hills where beautiful scenery and old buildings beckon walkers. This 4.6 mile moderately difficult walk ends as it began, with a gondola trip back to Coniston Pier.

Old Man of Coniston

One of the most popular walks for visitors to the Lake District is the ascent up the Old Man of Coniston. There are various routes to choose from to make the walk easier or harder so it can be tailored to serious walkers as well as families with younger children.

The views over Coniston Water and the village of Coniston are excellent and to fully enjoy them walkers should try to plan their ascent during clear weather.

Seathwaite to Sty Head and Grains Gill walk

Starting from Seathwaite farmyard car park, this strenuous walk from Seathwaite to Sty Head and Grains Gill follows an old pack horse route. It offers fantastic views and gives superb exposure to the rugged beauty of the Lakes.

There are some interesting sights to be seen on the way, such as the 15th century Grade 1 listed Stockley Bridge, as well as Sty Head Tarn and Sprinkling Tarn which are very pretty places to enjoy a packed lunch.

Ambleside to Troutbeck and back via Wansfell

The route from Ambleside to Troutbeck and back via Wansfell is fairly easy but a decent length of about 6 miles. A number of lanes and tracks running through woodland and fields provide laidback ambling from Ambleside to Troutbeck.

Visitors can pay a visit to the delightful Townend farmhouse whilst in Troutbeck. The return journey is more difficult, involving a trek over Wansfell Pike, but the effort is well worth it for the glorious views from Wansfell Pike.

A slight detour can be made before completing the walk to take in the sight of Stock Ghyll Force, a stunning waterfall.

Buttermere to Rannerdale

Visitors who are looking for a short yet challenging walk should consider the route from Buttermere to Rannerdale. This 3 mile walk is excellent for taking in the amazing Buttermere ridge landscape, starting from the bottom of Buttermere Valley and heading all the way to the top of Rannerdale Knotts.

Scafell Pike

The fact that Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain has certainly contributed to the popularity of this location with walkers - after all, it’s a great sense of achievement to know you’ve climbed one of the UK's highest peaks.

However, the striking views that walkers are greeted with during their ascent and descent make Scafell Pike a great choice regardless of its height. There are several routes that lead to the summit, with options for experienced climbers and walkers, as well as families and beginners.

Summer star gazing walk at Friar's Crag

Walks in the Lake District don’t just have to be daytime activities. The summer star gazing walk at Friar's Crag is a wonderful way to experience the Lake District at night in a magical stargazing setting.

It's an easy walk that can be enjoyed by all the family, and highlights to look out for include the North Star, the Milky Way and the Summer Triangle.

Walking the Cumbria Way

If you have loftier aspirations, following the 70+ mile Cumbria Way from Ulverston to Carlisle is a fantastic way to see the Lakes. The relatively low-level route passes through Coniston and Keswick, and takes in Langdale, Borrowdale, Derwentwater and Skiddaw Forest along the way.

Although not ideal for those with dogs or bovinophobia during summer (the southern and northern sections pass through cow pastures), it's one of the UK's most popular long distance walking trails and a good one to have on your bucket list.

Preparation is key to a safe and fun walking experience

Walkers should wear comfortable walking boots with good grip, as the terrain can be steep and slippery. The weather in this region can change very quickly and waterproof outer layers are important. Don't forget sunscreen for sunny days.

Plan your walking route before starting out, either the old fashioned way on paper or with an online walking route planner. Whatever you choose, take a compass and map with you. Tell someone where you are planning to go and take a mobile phone, whistle and torch with you, as well as food and drink to stay hydrated and keep your energy levels up.

There are plenty of camping options in the area, so you should have a blast!

Here are some of the top choices.