4.6
(5224)
40,530
hikers
55
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Nether Staveley traverse a landscape characterized by rolling fells, picturesque tarns, and ancient woodlands within the Lake District. The area features diverse terrain, including riverside paths along the River Kent and trails through nature reserves like Craggy Wood. Hikers can explore a network of paths that offer varied elevation gains, from gentle strolls to moderate ascents.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.7
(31)
176
hikers
8.90km
02:37
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
72
hikers
9.81km
02:57
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(9)
54
hikers
9.24km
02:27
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(7)
60
hikers
6.74km
01:52
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
24
hikers
17.4km
05:05
470m
470m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Although short lived, the River Kent is surely one of England's most scenic. It gathers high in the Kentmere fells and flows through Staveley and Kendal, before emptying into Morcambe Bay at the Kent Estuary. This riverside section forms a part of the Dales Way, a celebrated long-distance hike between Ilkley in West Yorkshire and Bowness-on-Windermere.
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Tenter Howe 267.0m P14.5 Unclass Trig Station 874ft
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Great way to get across the busy main road above and yes, you can get bikes through the gates.
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I’ve walked routes past here in all different weather over the years, it’s steep going up from the Bowston end but not too bad via the Longsleddale Road end. Going down from the tarn takes a winding route that either passes Craggy Woods or passes a small farm shop that links to footpaths down to Staveley.
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Don’t miss here for the best ice cream treat! Weds-Sun 12-6pm, with seasonal variations. Check website/facebook. You’ll be so disappointed if it’s closed.
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Nether Staveley offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hikes. There are over 50 hiking routes in the area, with 17 specifically categorized as easy, making them ideal for families with children. Many of these routes feature manageable distances and gentle paths.
Yes, for an easy and relatively short option, consider the Staveley Mill Weir – Craggy Wood Nature Reserve loop from Staveley. This 6.7 km route takes you through a mixed broadleaf woodland, perfect for a gentle family outing.
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in Nether Staveley are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Potter Tarn – River Kent loop from Staveley, which offers a moderate 9 km circular walk with varied scenery.
Yes, the area is known for its picturesque tarns. The Potter Tarn – Gurnal Dubs Tarn loop from Staveley is a popular moderate route that showcases two beautiful tarns, offering lovely waterside views for the family.
Family hikes around Nether Staveley often feature a diverse range of natural beauty. You can expect to see rolling fells, picturesque tarns, tranquil riverside paths along the River Kent, and ancient woodlands like Craggy Wood Nature Reserve. The region is part of the Lake District, offering stunning landscapes at every turn.
While specific family trails might vary, the wider Staveley area offers several notable viewpoints and landmarks. You could explore routes that offer glimpses of Orrest Head, a significant viewpoint in Lake District fellwalking, or even Brant Fell with its views over Windermere. Many trails also pass by historical structures like St Margaret's Tower, as seen on the River Kent – St Margaret's Tower, Staveley loop.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Nether Staveley, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 5,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of routes for various fitness levels, making it a popular choice for families seeking outdoor adventures.
While many routes are described as 'easy-going' with 'gentle paths,' the suitability for pushchairs can vary. Generally, riverside paths and designated nature reserve trails might be more suitable. For specific routes, it's always best to check the detailed route description on komoot for terrain information and user comments to ensure it meets your family's needs.
Nether Staveley offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and potential snow on the fells, though some paths may be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, the diverse habitats around Nether Staveley, including woodlands, rivers, and fells, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, red squirrels in the woodlands, and other small mammals. The ancient woodlands, in particular, are rich in mosses, ferns, and liverworts, adding to the natural exploration.
Given the variable Lake District weather, layering is key. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended, even on sunny days. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential, especially as some paths can be uneven or muddy. Don't forget hats, gloves, and sun protection depending on the season.


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