Discover five of the best hikes and walks in the Lake District, from the Cumbria Way to the Langdale Pikes. The Lake District is England's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. With sweeping landscapes of lush greenery and high peaks like the Langdale Pikes offering panoramic views, the Lake District is the perfect place to get your walking boots on.
There are plenty of wonderful Lake District walks to enjoy for all fitness levels, from easy walks for beginners or dog walking to more advanced hikes suitable for running, hiking or cycling. So, whichever type of walk you’re looking for, the Lake District has a trail for you. If you’re feeling adventurous you could attempt to hike the highest mountain peak in the Lake District and all of England, Scafell Pike.
At almost 600,000 acres, you will need more than a day to explore everything the Lake District has to offer. Luckily, we’ve compiled our favourite Lake District walks and hikes so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the outdoors.
1. Cumbria Way Walk
Suitable for: Beginners
Nearest station: Ulverston
The Cumbria Way walk is a beautiful Lake District trail that winds its way through some of the location’s most stunning scenery. Starting in the town of Ulverston, the trail guides you through striking mountainous landscapes, lakes, woodlands, glacial valleys, and rivers.
The Cumbria Way is perfect to experience the best of England's natural beauty. You can take your time and enjoy the views or challenge yourself to complete the 73-mile trail in one go. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or looking for Lake District walks for beginners, Cumbria Way is sure to give you an unforgettable experience and provide some amazing photographs!
2. Walking Helvellyn Mountain
Suitable for: Experienced hikers
Nearest station: Penrith
Helvellyn is one of the best mountain walks in the Lake District, and it's easy to see why. Walking Helvellyn will reward you with breathtaking views, and there are several routes to the top, each suitable for differing fitness levels.
The most popular hiking route is via Striding Edge, a narrow ridge with dramatic drop-offs on either side. This is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the sense of achievement at the top is well worth the effort. For those looking for an easier option, there is a path that winds its way around the mountain, offering stunning views without too much exertion. Whichever route you choose, walking Helvellyn is sure to leave you with lasting memories and fantastic selfies!
From Penrith station, it’s a scenic 45-minute bus ride to Glenridding, where the walk begins.
3. Orrest Head Walk
Suitable for: Beginners
Nearest station: Windermere
A picturesque 20-minute walk guides you to the peak of Orrest Head, a 784-foot hill with panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District. This is a nice, easy walk that's suitable for beginners and has an accessible route for wheelchairs, pushchairs and scooters, so everyone can enjoy the beauty of the Lake District.
With such incredible views, Orrest Head is a great place to watch the sunset or have a nice picnic on an afternoon walk with the family. Hop on a Northern train to Windermere and spend an afternoon getting closer to nature, while the kids burn off some energy.
Taking your dog along for the adventure?
The Lake District is great for exploring with your four-legged friend. Find out more about taking your dog on a Northern train.
Take your dog with you4. Langdale Pikes Walk
Suitable for: Beginners
Nearest station: Windermere
If you're looking for a breathtaking mountain walk in the Lake District, look no further than the Langdale Pikes walk. This area is home to six peaks, including Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, and Pike of Stickle. There are several routes to choose from, but we recommend starting from the Great Langdale campsite. From there, you'll have stunning views of the valley below as you make your way up to the summit. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the Langdale Pikes has something for everyone.
Catch the 516 bus from Windermere train station to the start of the walk at Langdale Valley. It takes less than an hour and winds around the picturesque Lake Windermere, where you can see the Pikes in the distance in all their beauty.
5. Tom Gill Coniston Waterfalls Trail
Suitable for: Intermediate hikers
Nearest station: Windermere
The Tom Gill Coniston Waterfall trail is a great Lake District walk for anyone looking to venture out into the location’s beautiful landscapes. It is a slightly challenging trail which leads to the stunning Tarn Hows Lake. The trail takes you through the beautiful fell and onto Brimstone Bridge and the stunning Tom Gill Coniston Waterfall.
Getting the ferry across Lake Windermere is an adventure in itself. Linking Windermere with Coniston, the ferry has been used for years to transport walkers, cars, horses, sheep and other livestock. It leaves from Ferry Nab in Bowness, and docks at Far Sawrey, taking just 10 minutes to cross the water.
There you have it, our list of the top five best mountain hikes and walks in the Lake District! What’s more, all of our favourite walks are accessible via Northern trains, so you can save time, money, and stress while enjoying a day out in the Lake District. Remember, you can book your tickets in advance to save up to 65%. Happy hiking!
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.