Attractions and Places To See around Kentmere - Top 20

The Kentmere Valley is characterized by stunning scenery, rolling hills, and Lakeland fells, transitioning from lush meadows in the south to a classic U-shaped valley with steep, rugged slopes in the north. Key features include the Kentmere Reservoir, fed by the headwaters of the River Kent, and the prominent Kentmere Round, a horseshoe of high fells offering extensive panoramic views.

Yes, Kentmere boasts several historical sites. Kentmere Hall is a significant 14th-century fortified farmstead with five-foot-thick walls and turrets. While on private property, a public footpath offers excellent views. St Cuthbert's Church, standing on a knoll, is a simple church featuring an ancient yew tree and a memorial to Bernard Gilpin. The valley also holds remnants of an old lead mine and ancient stone circles.

The Kentmere area offers a variety of walking routes. The challenging Kentmere Round (Horseshoe) is a prominent route encircling the Kentmere Reservoir, including peaks like Harter Fell and High Street. For those seeking easier options, there are several easy hikes around Kentmere, such as the Kentmere Valley loop or the Mardale Head loops. You can also find running trails for more strenuous activity.

Yes, Kentmere offers family-friendly attractions and activities. Rydal Cave, a man-made cave from historical slate mining, is a popular spot where families can navigate stepping stones through shallow water. Many of the easier walks in the valley are also suitable for families, providing a chance to enjoy the natural beauty together.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Loughrigg Fell summit, which offers an unrivaled panorama due to its prominent position at the junction of five major valley systems. Wansfell Pike summit also provides wonderful views along Windermere and the surrounding valleys. The Kentmere Round fells, such as Ill Bell and Kentmere Pike, also offer extensive vistas.

Beyond hiking, Kentmere offers opportunities for other outdoor activities. You can explore running trails, with options like the 'View of Yoke – Thornthwaite Beacon loop'. For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes, including challenging loops like the 'Coniston, Great Langdale & Windermere loop'.

The Kentmere Horseshoe is a prominent natural feature and a challenging walking route that encircles the Kentmere Reservoir. It involves a series of high fells, including Ill Bell, Froswick, and Kentmere Pike. It's considered a demanding route due to its length and elevation, appealing to experienced hikers seeking extensive panoramic views.

Yes, Rydal Cave is accessible and a popular spot. It's a large, man-made cave resulting from historical slate mining. Visitors can navigate stepping stones through shallow water at its entrance to reach drier parts inside. A torch is not strictly necessary, but it's a unique experience to explore this former quarry.

Kentmere is beautiful year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking and running, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions. During these months, trails are typically drier, and the fells provide clear views. Winter can be challenging with snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and experience.

Yes, for those looking for less strenuous options, there are several easy hikes around Kentmere. These include the Kentmere Valley loop, which is about 6.7 km, and shorter loops around Mardale Head, such as the Mardale Head – Small Water loop at just over 3 km. These routes are perfect for enjoying the scenery without significant elevation gain.

Many trails and outdoor areas in Kentmere are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for pet owners. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to follow the Countryside Code. Specific attractions like Rydal Cave are generally accessible for dogs.

Loughrigg Fell summit is notable for its unrivaled panorama, despite not being the tallest peak. Its prominent and exposed position at the junction of five major valley systems means there are no neighboring peaks to obstruct the views, offering extensive vistas across the Lake District.

You can learn more about the history of Kentmere Hall, a significant 14th-century fortified farmstead, on external heritage sites. It's known for its five-foot-thick walls, turrets, and as the birthplace of Bernard Gilpin, a renowned preacher during Henry VIII's era.