The best walks and hikes around Lakes
4.6
(9707)
83,659
hikers
629
hikes
Hiking in the Lakes region of England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is defined by its landscape of fells, valleys, and numerous bodies of water. The area contains England's highest mountains, including Scafell Pike, and its largest lakes, such as Windermere. The terrain offers a mix of challenging mountain ascents, ridge walks, and more gentle routes around the lakes and through valleys like Great Langdale.
Best hiking trails around Lakes
- The most popular hiking route is Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside — Lake District National Park, a 11.0 mile (17.7 km) trail that takes about 6 hours to complete. This is a classic ridge walk that summits multiple fells in a single circuit.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is The Langdale Pikes - Pavey Ark, Thunacar Knott and Pike of Stickle, a difficult 7.2 mile (11.7 km) path. The route involves steep ascents to reach the distinctive summits of the Langdale Pikes.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Helm Crag loop from Grasmere— Lake District National Park, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail leading through the valley, often completed in about 2 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Lakes is defined by its fells, expansive lakes, and smaller tarns nestled in high valleys. The extensive network of paths provides routes for all ability levels, from accessible lakeside walks to demanding mountain expeditions.
- The routes in Lakes are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 9,000 reviews. More than 79,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lakes's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.8
(438)
3,706
hikers
17.7km
06:01
890m
890m
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.
4.7
(99)
753
hikers
11.7km
04:23
730m
730m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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4.8
(159)
731
hikers
7.37km
02:26
300m
300m
Embark on the moderate Helm Crag loop from Grasmere, a rewarding hike covering 4.6 miles (7.4 km) with an elevation gain of 995 feet (303 metres). This trail, typically completed in about 2 hours and 25 minutes, offers a varied experience, starting with gentle paths through fields before ascending steeply. As you climb, the path becomes rocky and scrambly, especially near the summit, where you'll find the distinctive
4.6
(56)
637
hikers
19.4km
07:18
1,070m
1,070m
Embark on a challenging journey through the Lake District with the Scafell Pike and Bowfell Loop from Great Langdale. This difficult hiking route spans 12.0 miles (19.4 km), demanding a significant 3501 feet (1067 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 7 hours and 17 minutes. You will traverse dramatic landscapes, encountering rugged terrain and expansive views across valleys like Oxendale and Eskdale, with the serene Angle Tarn nestled below imposing fells providing a moment of calm.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this is a strenuous and physically demanding hike not suited for beginners. Ensure you have good fitness levels and strong navigational skills, especially since the route can be difficult to follow in poor weather conditions. The hike typically begins from the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale, which offers convenient amenities at both the start and end of your adventure.
This loop offers spectacular mountain scenery, leading you to England's highest peak, Scafell Pike, and the prominent Bowfell. It is designed for experienced hikers seeking a full day out in the mountains, providing a true test of endurance and a deep immersion into the wild beauty of the Lake District National Park. The route promises a memorable experience for those prepared for its rigors.
4.4
(97)
339
hikers
10.2km
03:32
420m
420m
If you are looking for a challenging hike in the Lake District, the Rydal Cave, Loughrigg Fell & Grasmere loop offers a rewarding journey. This difficult route covers 6.3 miles (10.2 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1375 feet (419 metres), taking around 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You will traverse diverse landscapes, from lush woodlands to open fellside, with tranquil views of Grasmere Lake and Rydal Water. From the summit of Loughrigg Fell, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Windermere and the distant Langdale Pikes, making the effort worthwhile.
Be prepared for a popular trail, especially near Rydal Cave. Some sections present a challenge with steep ascents and potentially loose rocks on descents from Loughrigg Fell. The path is not always clearly marked, so careful navigation is recommended to stay on track. Plan your visit accordingly, especially if you prefer quieter moments on the trail.
This loop showcases the varied beauty of the Lake District National Park, combining natural vistas with a unique historical feature. Rydal Cave, a man-made cavern, adds an intriguing element to the route, offering a glimpse into the area's past. The trail's blend of demanding terrain and scenic rewards makes it a notable option for experienced hikers in the region.
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Tips from the Community
Heron Pike, at 612 metres, is slightly higher than its neighbour Rydal Fell, or Heron Pike North Top, which sits at 621 metres. From here you have the most beautiful views straight down to Winderemere.
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Great Rigg, at 766 metres (2,513 feet), is one of the summit peaks of the Fairfield Horseshoe. It also acts as a linking summit if you are coming up from Stone Arthur to Fairfield. Either way, it is a pleasant place with good views down the spur to Stone Arthur and onwards down the ridgeline to Heron Pike and distant Lake Windermere.
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Dove Crag summit is quite unassuming, just a small cairn on a rocky ledge, but it offers a good vantage point with super nice expansive views over the eastern fells and back towards High Pike. It is quite a walk to get here from Ambleside; most do it as part of the Fairfield Horseshoe, but it is well worth it for the views. It is also famous for the hidden Priest Hole Cave located on its steep eastern cliff face.
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Helm Crag summit is quite a unique Wainwright top. It forms the southeastern section of a nice rambling ridge that includes a trio of Wainwrights, including Calf Crag and Gibson Knott. Whilst not very high, it has a dramatic rocky summit area known as 'The Lion and the Lamb' and a slabbed shark-fin slab of rock called 'The Howitzer', which is the true summit of Helm Crag. The Howitzer can be a real scrambling test, but it is not for the faint-hearted. There are fantastic views to be had from here looking down over Grasmere village and lake.
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Easily climbed from its eastern face with some light scrambling. More challenging scramble to the summit on its northern face
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A great loop of Easedale can be achieved from Grasmere to fells including Helm Crag. The top of the Howitzer is the true summit which is a scramble to the top but take care. It’s reported that Wainwright himself never reached the true summit of Helm Crag although at the same time he was the first finisher of the Wainrights. You don’t need to be a hero…. Stay safe.
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Right at the centre of the Lake District High Raise offers a panoramic view of the Lake District on a bright clear day. Can be climbed from many aspects including Langdale, Grasmere, Thirlmere or Borrowdale for a variety of different challenges
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One of the best Lakeland ascents. Take. The climbers traverse branching off near the top of the band for some amazing mountain scenery and full appreciation of the great slab. Mind blowing views from the top on a clear day. Return via either esk pike or Hell Gill where plenty of pools lie await for cooling down in summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in the Lake District?
There are over 600 hiking routes to explore in the Lake District on komoot. They range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain expeditions, with plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the Lake District?
The trails are very highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the fell tops and the variety of the landscape, from serene lakeshores to dramatic rocky ridges.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks?
Yes, the Lake District has many trails suitable for families. The region offers numerous gentle paths around lakes like Grasmere and Derwentwater. With over 180 easy-rated hikes, you can find plenty of shorter, less strenuous options that still provide beautiful scenery.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in the Lake District?
Dogs are widely welcomed on trails in the Lake District. However, it's a major sheep-farming area, so you must keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (typically spring). Also be mindful of steep sections, scrambles, and stiles that might be difficult for some dogs.
What is a good hike for a serious challenge?
For a demanding day out, consider the Angle Tarn, Scafell Pike & Bowfell loop from Great Langdale. This is a long and strenuous route that summits England's highest peak and involves significant elevation gain, rewarding you with some of the most epic views in the country.
Are there any hikes that feature caves or waterfalls?
Absolutely. A popular option is the Rydal Cave, Loughrigg Fell & Grasmere loop, which takes you to a large man-made cavern. The region is also famous for its waterfalls, known as 'forces'. Aira Force near Ullswater is one of the most well-known and has lovely surrounding walking trails.
What kind of gear do I need for hiking in the Lakes?
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential as trails can be rocky and boggy. The weather changes rapidly, so always carry waterproof layers (jacket and trousers), even on a sunny day. A map, compass, and a fully charged phone are critical for navigation. For longer fell walks, pack extra layers, food, water, and a headtorch.
What are 'fells' and 'tarns'?
In the Lake District, 'fells' is the local name for the mountains and hills that characterize the region. A 'tarn' is a small mountain lake or pond, often found in a high valley or cirque carved by glaciers. Many hikes lead to these scenic and often remote tarns.
Is it possible to get around the Lake District using public transport?
Yes, many popular hiking areas are accessible by bus. Services like the 555 and 599 connect key towns like Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick, which serve as gateways to numerous trails. During the summer, open-top buses offer scenic journeys into valleys like Great Langdale and Borrowdale.
What are the parking situations like at popular trailheads?
Parking can be very challenging, especially during peak season and on weekends. Car parks in popular spots like the Langdale valleys, Wasdale Head (for Scafell Pike), and Grasmere fill up early in the morning. It's best to arrive early or consider using a park-and-ride service or public transport.
What is a 'horseshoe walk'?
A 'horseshoe walk' is a classic type of fell walk in the Lake District that follows a circular ridge of mountains surrounding a valley, creating a horseshoe shape on a map. This allows you to summit multiple peaks in one continuous hike with sustained views. The Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the most famous examples.
Are there any moderate loop trails for a good half-day hike?
Yes, there are many excellent circular routes. The Helm Crag loop from Grasmere is a fantastic option. It's under 5 miles (8 km) and offers a rewarding climb to a distinctive summit with great views over the valley, making it a perfect walk that won't take up your entire day.
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