Cumbria

Walking in Cumbria, particularly within the Lake District National Park, is an experience like no other. This region is famed for its stunning lakes, rugged mountain scenery, and charming countryside, making it a paradise for walkers of all levels. Cumbria offers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain hikes, providing both breathtaking views and tranquil walks in lush valleys.

Popular Walks in Cumbria

1. Helvellyn via Striding Edge

• Length: Approximately 7.5 miles round trip
• Start/End: Glenridding
• Highlights: This is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in the Lake District, involving a scramble across the narrow ridge of Striding Edge to reach the summit of Helvellyn, the third highest peak in the region. It offers spectacular views but requires good weather conditions and a head for heights.

2. Scafell Pike

• Length: Various routes, typically around 6-9 miles depending on the start point
• Start/End: Wasdale Head, Seathwaite, or Langdale
• Highlights: The highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike is a popular challenge for many hikers. The ascent is tough but rewarding, with panoramic views from the summit over the surrounding peaks and valleys.

3. Buttermere Walk

• Length: About 4.5 miles (circular)
• Start/End: Buttermere village
• Highlights: This is a relatively flat and easy walk around the beautiful Buttermere lake, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding fells in its waters, ideal for photographers and families.

4. Catbells

• Length: About 3.7 miles (return)
• Start/End: Hawse End (accessible by car or the Keswick Launch ferry)
• Highlights: Catbells is a popular fell with relatively easy access that provides rewarding views over Derwentwater and Keswick. It’s an ideal choice for beginners and families.

5. The Old Man of Coniston

• Length: Around 6 miles (circular)
• Start/End: Coniston village
• Highlights: This route takes you up to the summit of the Old Man, offering extensive views across the Lake District and out to the sea. The path passes old copper mines and beautiful tarns.

6. The Cumbria Way

• Length: 70 miles (total length)
• Start/End: Ulverston to Carlisle
• Highlights: Stretching through the heart of the Lake District, this long-distance path offers a varied landscape from the picturesque countryside in the south to the rugged mountains of the north, passing through key areas like Langdale and Keswick.

Tips for Walking in Cumbria

• Prepare for the Weather: Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly; be prepared for rain, wind, and even snow on higher ground, regardless of the season. Waterproof gear and good quality hiking boots are essential.
• Navigation Skills: Always carry a map and compass, particularly when tackling the fells, as fog and bad weather can quickly reduce visibility.
• Respect the Environment: Stick to the trails, particularly around sensitive habitats. Keep dogs under control and take all litter back with you.
• Safety: Inform someone of your route and expected return time, especially when venturing onto the higher fells.
• Local Facilities: Plan your route to include local facilities for refreshments and emergencies. Many popular walking routes are well-supported by local pubs and cafes where you can refuel.

Cumbria, with its rich natural beauty and welcoming villages, offers some of the best walking experiences in the UK. Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll or a serious hiking challenge, the landscapes of Cumbria provide both inspiration and rejuvenation.

Recommended Towns & Villages for the best walks

• Walks from Ambleside
• Walks from Arnside
• Walks from Coniston
• Walks from Elterwater
• Walks from Grasmere
• Walks from Keswick
• Walks from Kirkby Lonsdale
• Walks from Longlands
• Walks from Longtown
• Walks from Loweswater
• Walks from Lowick
• Walks from Lowther
• Walks from Martindale
• Walks from Morton
• Walks from Nenthead
• Walks from Newlands
• Walks from Parkgate
• Walks from Patterdale
• Walks from Penrith
• Walks from Plantation Bridge
• Walks from Raise
• Walks from Rydal
• Walks from Seaton
• Walks from Skelton
• Walks from Skelwith Bridge
• Walks from Staveley
• Walks from Thornthwaite
• Walks from Troutbeck
• Walks from Ulverston
• Walks from Upton
• Walks from Walton
• Walks from Wellington
• Walks from Westfield
• Walks from Windermere
• Walks from Winster
• Walks from Woodhouse