The best running trails around Hawkshead

Hawkshead offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 50 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy jogs to more challenging trail runs through fells and woodlands.

Yes, Hawkshead has several easy running routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed jog. There are 4 easy routes and 40 moderate routes. For a moderate option, consider the Hill Top, Beatrix Potter – Esthwaite Trout Fishery Café loop from Hawkshead, which is 4.8 miles (7.8 km) and takes about 49 minutes, leading through picturesque countryside and past Esthwaite Water.

The running trails around Hawkshead feature diverse terrain, including fells, extensive woodlands, and serene tarns. You'll find a mix of well-maintained paths, gravel trails, and more demanding climbs. For example, the Hawkshead Village – Moss Eccles Tarn loop from Hawkshead offers varied terrain with climbs to scenic tarns.

Yes, many of the running routes around Hawkshead are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A notable circular path is around Tarn Hows, which is well-maintained and offers majestic mountain views. The Tarn Hows Eastern Shore – Tarn Hows loop from Hawkshead is a challenging 20.6 km circular route.

Hawkshead's running routes often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can explore areas like Tarn Hows with its majestic mountain views, or Grizedale Forest with its outdoor sculpture trail. Some routes might also take you past historic sites like St Michael and All Angels Church, or offer panoramic views from places like Latterbarrow. You might also encounter highlights such as Rydal Cave or Cathedral Cavern.

Yes, Hawkshead offers family-friendly running options, particularly around locations like Tarn Hows, which has a well-maintained circular path suitable for all levels. Grizedale Forest also provides an extensive network of trails, including nature trails that can be enjoyed by families.

Many popular running spots around Hawkshead, such as Tarn Hows and Grizedale Forest, offer dedicated parking facilities. Hawkshead village itself also serves as a convenient starting point with available parking, allowing easy access to various trails.

The running routes in Hawkshead are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 1300 runners have used komoot to explore Hawkshead's varied terrain, often praising the extensive views of the fells and lakes, and the diverse landscapes.

Yes, you can find running routes that offer views of or run alongside Lake Windermere. The Windermere West Shore Gravel Trail is a peaceful and scenic option that runs along the western edge of the lake, winding through lush woodland and providing open views, ideal for a tranquil jog.

Hawkshead is an excellent destination for outdoor activities year-round, but the best time for running often depends on personal preference. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can offer challenging but beautiful runs, especially on the fells, though conditions can be more demanding.

Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a significant challenge, the Hawkshead area delivers. The infamous 'Coffin Trail' presents a demanding mile-long climb with panoramic views. Routes like the Elterwater Lake – Tarn Hows loop from Holme Fell, a difficult 23.0 miles (37.0 km) trail, offer extensive views and considerable elevation changes, perfect for off-road running enthusiasts.

Many running routes around Hawkshead allow you to combine your activity with exploring local villages or attractions. Hawkshead itself is a charming village with old stone houses. You could also choose a route like the Hawkshead Village – Wray Castle loop from Hawkshead, which takes you past historic Wray Castle, blending cultural interest with your run.