The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Patterdale

Patterdale offers a fantastic selection for families, with over 150 hiking routes in total. Among these, you'll find nearly 40 routes specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children or those seeking a more relaxed outing.

The Patterdale area is rich in stunning natural beauty. Many family-friendly routes offer views of the majestic fells surrounding Ullswater, such as Place Fell. You might also encounter tranquil tarns like Lanty's Tarn, which is featured in the popular Lanty's Tarn & Grisedale Beck loop. Keep an eye out for impressive summits like Helvellyn Summit in the distance, or explore the charming The Grotto and Waterfall at Rydal Hall, which can be a delightful stop on some longer routes.

Absolutely! Circular routes are perfect for families as they bring you back to your starting point. A great option is the Lanty's Tarn & Grisedale Beck loop from Glenridding, which is rated as easy and offers lovely scenery. For a slightly longer but still manageable moderate option with stunning lake views, consider the Place Fell & Ullswater loop from Patterdale.

The Lake District, including Patterdale, is beautiful year-round, but for family hiking, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant conditions. You'll find longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and less chance of severe weather. However, always be prepared for changeable weather in the fells, regardless of the season.

Yes, many trails in Patterdale are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for the whole family, including your canine companions. Always keep dogs under close control, especially around livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding leads. The Lanty's Tarn & Grisedale Beck loop is a popular choice for families with dogs.

The Patterdale area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from gentle lakeside paths to more adventurous fell walks, all offering spectacular views. The accessibility of routes from villages like Patterdale and Glenridding, combined with the stunning Ullswater scenery, makes it a firm favorite for families.

While many routes involve uneven terrain, some paths are more suitable for families with toddlers or those using sturdy, off-road prams. The paths around Brothers Water, for example, offer relatively flat and easy walking. For specific pram-friendly sections, it's always best to check individual route descriptions for surface details, as the Lake District terrain can be challenging.

Patterdale and the nearby village of Glenridding offer several parking options. There are usually pay-and-display car parks available, which can fill up quickly during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or school holidays, to secure a spot. Some routes, like those starting from Glenridding, will have parking facilities nearby.

Yes, Patterdale and Glenridding are well-served by local bus routes, making it possible to access many trailheads without a car. The Ullswater 'Steamers' also provide a unique way to travel along the lake, connecting various points like Glenridding and Howtown, which can be integrated into linear or circular walks. For example, the Ullswater Steamer, Howtown & the eastern shore loop utilizes the boat service.

Patterdale and Glenridding are well-equipped with amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and small shops in both villages, perfect for grabbing a snack, a warm drink, or a meal before or after your hike. Many routes start or pass through these villages, ensuring convenient access to refreshments and facilities.

For families looking for a bit more of a challenge with rewarding vistas, the Place Fell & Ullswater loop from Patterdale is an excellent moderate option. It offers stunning panoramic views over Ullswater and the surrounding fells. Another moderate choice is the Ullswater, Sheffield Pike & Glenridding Dodd loop from Glenridding, which provides fantastic perspectives of the lake and the Helvellyn ridge.