The best walks and hikes around Bassenthwaite

Yes, the area offers a good selection of easier trails perfect for families. Out of more than 60 routes, 15 are rated as easy. These often follow gentler terrain, such as the paths through Dodd Wood or along the lakeshore near Mirehouse & Gardens, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

For some of the most rewarding panoramic views, the challenging ascent of Skiddaw is a classic choice. A great alternative is the Long Side Summit – Skiddaw Summit loop, which offers stunning vistas throughout the hike. For a less strenuous but equally impressive viewpoint, the trails in Dodd Wood lead to a summit overlooking both Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater.

Bassenthwaite is a great destination for hiking with dogs. Many trails, especially through Whinlatter Forest and around the lake, are dog-friendly. However, you'll be sharing the fells with livestock, particularly sheep, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring) and around ground-nesting birds.

Yes, you can find some lovely waterfalls in the area. The Dash Falls – Bakestall Summit loop is a moderate hike that takes you to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the northern lakes. The route involves a bit of a scramble to get the best views of the falls as they cascade down the mountainside.

While a full circular walk around Bassenthwaite Lake is challenging due to the A66 road running along one side, there are beautiful sections of shoreline path. You can enjoy peaceful, relatively flat walks along the western shore, particularly around Mirehouse & Gardens and through the Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve. These paths offer serene views across the water and excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

There are several well-placed car parks. Dodd Wood has a large Forestry England car park which is a starting point for multiple waymarked trails. For hikes up Skiddaw or Ullock Pike, there are lay-bys along the A591 near Mirehouse. You can also find parking at the northern end of the lake near the Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve and in Whinlatter Forest for its network of trails.

Accessing the trails by public transport is possible, though services can be infrequent. Several bus routes from the nearby town of Keswick run along the A591 and A66 roads, which border the lake. These services provide access to trailheads for Dodd Wood, Mirehouse, and Skiddaw. It's always best to check the latest bus timetables before you travel.

The trails around Bassenthwaite are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of walks, from the tranquil lakeside paths to the dramatic fell ridges. The well-maintained trails in places like Dodd Wood and the spectacular views from peaks like Skiddaw are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Yes, if you're looking to escape the crowds, consider exploring the fells on the western side of the lake, such as Sale Fell or Binsey. Binsey, in particular, is known as a relatively simple walk that delivers big views towards the Solway Firth and Scottish mountains. The trails within Wythop Woods also tend to be quieter than the more famous peaks.

The area is a haven for wildlife. Ospreys are a major attraction, and you can spot them from viewpoints in Dodd Wood between April and August. On the lake itself, you might see otters and various water birds. The Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve is another excellent spot for birdwatching, with species like curlews and reed buntings.

There is a wide network of trails to explore, with over 60 distinct hiking routes available on komoot. These range from short, easy walks suitable for the whole family to strenuous, full-day mountain hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.