The best walks and hikes in North West England

Imagine hiking the Buttermere loop, a moderate trail that takes you around the tranquil waters of Buttermere Lake. This 4.9-mile (7.8 km) hike, with a gentle 205 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, offers continuous views of the surrounding fells reflected in the water. You can expect to complete the route in about 2 hours and 3 minutes, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as you pass through open fields and the quiet Burtness Wood. The path offers a chance to see iconic peaks like Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike from a different perspective. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the Lake District's natural beauty without strenuous climbing.

The village of Buttermere is your ideal starting point for this circular hike, offering convenient parking options, as well as places to grab a meal or a drink before or after your adventure. Be prepared for varied terrain; some sections of the trail can be rocky or muddy, especially if it has rained recently, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. If you plan to go through the Hassness Tunnel, consider bringing a torch, as it can be quite dark and damp inside. Starting earlier in the day often provides the best conditions and fewer crowds.

This route stands out for its unique blend of lakeside serenity and dramatic mountain backdrops, making it a favorite in the Lake District National Park. As you follow the path, you will experience the distinct character of Burtness Wood and the intriguing Hassness Tunnel, which adds an element of adventure to your journey. The continuous views of the water reflecting the fells create a memorable visual experience that sets this loop apart from other trails in the region.

Embark on the Striding Edge, Helvellyn & Swirral Edge loop from Glenridding, a classic and challenging hike in the Lake District National Park. This difficult route covers 8.1 miles (13.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2673 feet (815 metres), typically taking around 5 hours and 9 minutes to complete. You will navigate varied and demanding terrain, including a Grade 1 scramble along the narrow, rocky Striding Edge, which features sections like "The Chimney" and offers spine-tingling exposure. After reaching Helvellyn's summit, the descent follows Swirral Edge, another steep and rocky ridge requiring hands-on scrambling.

This hike requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, and mountain walking experience. It is not recommended for beginners or those with a significant fear of heights, especially in adverse weather conditions. The exposure on the ridges can be particularly dangerous in wet, icy, snowy, or high-wind conditions. Always check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for rapidly changing mountain conditions.

This loop is renowned for its legendary ridge walking, offering an adventurous challenge with two of the Lake District's most famous arêtes. From Helvellyn's summit, England's third-highest peak, you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Ullswater, Red Tarn, and the surrounding fells. On clear days, you might even see as far as the hills of south-west Scotland. This iconic route is one of the most popular and well-loved hikes in the UK.

The Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside offers a challenging circular hike through the Lake District National Park, renowned for its incredible panoramic views. This difficult route covers 11.0 miles (17.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2918 feet (889 metres), typically taking around 6 hours and 1 minutes to complete. You will encounter varied terrain, from grassy paths and rocky climbs to some scrambles, all while enjoying expansive vistas of Lake Windermere, Rydal Water, and Grasmere, with the dramatic crags of Fairfield's northern side adding to the visual appeal.

Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness and experience, as this is considered a full-day mountain walk. Be prepared for potentially boggy sections, especially on the east side of the horseshoe, and steep, tricky descents. While paths are generally well-defined, navigation can be challenging on Fairfield's broad summit, particularly in poor visibility, so carrying a compass and knowing how to use it is essential to stay on track.

This trail is celebrated as a classic fell walk, offering one of the most satisfying circular routes in the region. It allows you to 'bag' numerous Wainwright peaks, including Fairfield, Hart Crag, and Dove Crag, all in one outing. The route also features a long dry stone wall on its eastern side, which aids navigation, and passes historical sites like Rydal Mount, once home to William Wordsworth, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.

Embark on a moderate hike around Derwent Water from Keswick, a journey that covers 10.7 miles (17.3 km) with an elevation gain of 856 feet (261 metres). This loop typically takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will find varied terrain, including well-maintained gravel paths, boardwalks through marshy areas, and sections winding through ancient woodlands. As you walk, you will enjoy expansive views of Derwent Water, its islands, and the surrounding fells, with the dramatic backdrop of Cat Bells often in sight.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is easily accessible from Keswick. The path is largely waymarked, making navigation simple. If you wish to shorten your walk, you can combine sections of the trail with a trip on the Keswick Launch boat service, which has multiple landing stages around the lake. Buses also serve various points, offering additional flexibility for your day out. The trail's newly constructed bridges and raised paths mean it is often viable even in wetter conditions.

This trail is notable for offering some of the Lake District's most iconic views, such as those from Friar's Crag, which famously inspired writer John Ruskin. The route provides a wide range of experiences, from gentle lakeside strolls to options for more challenging fell climbs if you choose to extend your adventure. Along the way, you will encounter interesting features like the Chinese Bridge and several jetties, passing through areas rich in flora and wildlife cared for by the National Trust.

Embark on the Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop, a moderate hike covering 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1177 feet (359 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 26 minutes. This popular route offers a varied terrain, starting with well-trodden paths before a steep ascent up Cat Bells, which involves some minor rocky sections requiring you to use your hands for balance. From the summit, you are rewarded with incredible 360-degree panoramas of Derwent Water, Keswick, and surrounding fells like Skiddaw. The trail then descends to gentler paths, including the Allerdale Ramble, winding along the lake's lower slopes and through peaceful woodlands.

For this rewarding loop, proper grippy walking shoes or boots are highly recommended, especially since sections can be slippery when wet. The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it manageable for most walkers, including beginners and families new to fell walking. While the classic route is around 3.5 miles, this specific Komoot route offers a slightly longer experience. You will find the area to be quite popular, so expect company on the paths, particularly during peak seasons.

Cat Bells is an iconic and beloved fell in the Lake District, known for its accessibility and for offering some of the most spectacular and comprehensive views despite its modest height. It serves as an excellent introduction to fell walking, providing a taste of the region's mountainous terrain without being overly technical or strenuous. The lakeside portions of the loop offer serene views across the water, often with opportunities to see islands like Rampsholme Island and Derwent Isle, adding to the diverse scenery of this memorable hike.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park Trail, a 4.3-mile (7.0 km) loop that typically takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You will climb 983 feet (300 metres) as you explore diverse landscapes, starting with the impressive 65-foot Aira Force waterfall plunging through ancient woodlands. As you ascend towards Gowbarrow Fell, the path opens up, revealing expansive views across Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the Lake District. From the Gowbarrow Fell summit, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding fells, making the effort worthwhile.

When planning your visit, be aware that while paths around Aira Force are generally well-maintained, the terrain towards Gowbarrow Fell can be more challenging. Expect steep sections and potential mud or bracken, especially during certain times of the year. Gowbarrow Fell itself can also be boggy, so wear appropriate footwear. Parking is available for the Aira Force hike, but always check local conditions before you go to ensure a smooth experience.

This circular route offers a rewarding experience for hikers seeking varied scenery within Lake District National Park. The trail's unique combination of a powerful waterfall, ancient woodlands, and open fellside with sweeping lake views sets it apart. It provides a fantastic opportunity to witness the dramatic natural beauty of the region, from the cascading waters to the expansive vistas over Ullswater and the surrounding fells.

Embark on the Stonyhurst College & the Ribble Way loop from Hurst Green, a moderate hike that winds through the picturesque Ribble Valley. This 7.1-mile (11.4 km) route, with an elevation gain of 440 feet (134 metres), typically takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and open farmland, with paths leading you along the scenic River Ribble. Keep an eye out for the impressive architecture of Stonyhurst College as you pass by, a striking landmark on your journey. The terrain varies from gentle valley paths to moderate climbs through forested areas, offering a rewarding outdoor experience.

Your hike begins in Hurst Green, a charming village that serves as a popular starting point for many local trails. You can find amenities here, including the Shireburn Arms pub, perfect for a pre-hike coffee or a post-hike meal. The trail is generally accessible, but be aware that some riverside sections can become muddy, especially after rain, so wear appropriate footwear. While the route is considered moderate and suitable for most skill levels, a good level of fitness will help you enjoy the varied terrain. Consider starting your walk earlier in the day to fully appreciate the views and avoid busier times, particularly during peak seasons.

This trail is particularly notable for its strong connection to J.R.R. Tolkien; the surrounding landscape is believed to have inspired parts of "The Lord of the Rings." You will also cross Cromwell's Bridge over the River Hodder, a historic site where Oliver Cromwell's army once passed. The route offers views of significant river confluences, where the Ribble meets the Calder and later the Hodder, adding to the natural beauty. This blend of literary heritage, historical significance, and stunning river landscapes makes the loop a unique adventure in the Ribble Valley.

Embark on a moderate hike through the picturesque Forest of Bowland on the Tolkien Trail from Hurst Green. This 6.6 miles (10.7 km) loop takes you along undulating farmland, through lush woodlands, and beside the Rivers Ribble, Hodder, and Calder. You will gain 422 feet (129 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes, passing historical landmarks like Cromwell's Bridge and the grand Stonyhurst College, with views of Pendle Hill.

While the main loop is considered moderate, the area offers various routes to suit different abilities, including shorter woodland walks. Be aware that some sections can be muddy after rain, though new paths have improved conditions in parts. The Shireburn Arms pub in Hurst Green is a popular starting point for this journey, offering a convenient place to begin and end your adventure.

This trail is famously associated with J.R.R. Tolkien, who spent time at Stonyhurst College during the Second World War while working on "The Lord of the Rings." The local landscape is widely believed to have inspired elements of his fictional Middle-earth, particularly "The Shire." As you walk, you might recognize features like Shire Lane in Hurst Green and the River Hodder's steep, tree-filled embankment, which could have sparked ideas for his legendary stories.

Embark on a difficult hike to England's highest mountain with the Scafell Pike loop from Wasdale. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route, typically taking around 5 hours and 9 minutes, challenges you with a significant ascent of 3077 feet (938 metres) through dramatic Lake District scenery. You will navigate steep sections like Brown Tongue and a rocky path that can become indistinct, leading to a "giant boulder field of shattered rock" near the summit. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Lakeland Fells, and on clear days, you might even spot the Isle of Man, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.

While the Wasdale Head route is popular, especially for those attempting the National Three Peaks Challenge, be prepared for strenuous conditions. The terrain is demanding, with loose scree and challenging navigation, particularly on the summit plateau where mist, rain, or wind are common. Good fitness, appropriate gear, and strong navigational skills are essential for this demanding mountain environment. Always check weather conditions before you set out.

This route leads you to the summit of Scafell Pike, which stands at 978 metres (3,209 feet) and holds historical significance as a war memorial. The entire summit was donated to the National Trust in 1919 to honor the men of the Lake District who died in World War I. The Wasdale valley itself is an iconic and awe-inspiring location, featuring glacial carved valleys and views over Wastwater, England's deepest lake, adding to the wild and remote feel of your adventure.