Five Lake District Hikes for Beginners!

The Lake District in England is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and picturesque lakes, making it a paradise for hikers of all levels and I am fortunate enough to call this part of the world my home! For beginners looking to explore this breath-taking region, here are five beginner-friendly hikes that offer a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lake District:

1. Tarn Hows Circular Walk:

Tarn Hows is one of the most iconic and accessible beauty spots in the Lake District. This easy circular walk around the picturesque Tarn Hows offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and tranquil waters. The path is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it suitable for hikers of all abilities, including families with children and those with limited mobility. Along the way, you'll pass through woodlands, meadows, and open countryside, providing plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The entire loop is approximately 1.5 miles long and can be completed in about an hour, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing tarn side picnic!

2. Catbells Summit:

Catbells is often referred to as the perfect introduction to fell walking in the Lake District, thanks to its manageable ascent and rewarding views. Located near the town of Keswick, this popular hike offers stunning panoramic views of Derwentwater, Borrowdale, and the surrounding fells. While the ascent can be steep in places, the well-defined path and regular resting points make it achievable for beginners with a moderate level of fitness.

The round-trip hike to the summit and back is approximately 3 miles long and can typically be completed in 2-3 hours. Be sure to bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water, especially on warm days, and enjoy the exhilarating sense of achievement when you reach the summit!

3. Orrest Head:

Orrest Head is a low hill located near the town of Windermere and offers one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Lake District. This short and easy hike is perfect for beginners and offers breathtaking views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. The well-marked trail starts from the village of Windermere and ascends gently through woodlands and open meadows to the summit of Orrest Head. The round-trip hike is approximately 2 miles long and can be completed in about an hour, making it an ideal choice for a morning or afternoon excursion. Once at the summit, take some time to soak in the panoramic views and capture some memorable photos before descending back to Windermere.

Orrest head was also famously the first fell that the renowned author and hill walker Alfred Wainwright first walked, he wrote "our first ascent in Lakeland, our first sight of mountains in tumultuous array across glittering waters, our awakening to beauty".

4. Loughrigg Fell Circuit:

Loughrigg Fell is a modest-sized fell located near the village of Ambleside and offers a fantastic introduction to fell walking for beginners. This circular route around Loughrigg Fell provides stunning views of Grasmere, Rydal Water, and the surrounding mountains, with relatively gentle gradients throughout. The well-defined paths and signposts make navigation straightforward, while the varied terrain keeps the hike interesting and enjoyable. The full circuit is approximately 5 miles long and can typically be completed in 2-3 hours, depending on pace and stopping time.

Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful woodlands, rocky outcrops, and peaceful tarns, providing plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Lake District.

5. Aira Force and Gowbarrow Fell:

This circular walk combines a visit to the stunning Aira Force waterfall with a gentle ascent of Gowbarrow Fell, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and scenic views. The trail starts from the National Trust car park at Aira Force and follows well-maintained paths through ancient woodlands alongside the cascading waters of Aira Beck. After admiring the waterfall, the route continues uphill towards Gowbarrow Fell, with gradual gradients that are suitable for beginners. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells, providing a memorable conclusion to the hike. The full circuit is approximately 4 miles long and can typically be completed in 2-3 hours, making it an ideal choice for a half-day adventure in the Lake District.

These five beginner-friendly hikes offer a wonderful introduction to the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of the Lake District, providing unforgettable experiences for hikers of all ages and abilities. Whether you're seeking panoramic views, tranquil lakes, or cascading waterfalls, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting corner of England.

So lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and prepare to explore the wonders of the Lake District on foot!