The best walks and hikes around Allerdale

Yes, Allerdale has many options for families. For a gentle walk with lovely scenery, the Buttermere loop is a great choice. It's a relatively flat, 4.9-mile (7.8 km) path around the lake. Another popular option near Keswick is the Latrigg loop, which offers fantastic views for a modest amount of climbing.

For experienced hikers looking for a strenuous day in the fells, the Coledale Horseshoe from Braithwaite is an excellent challenge. This 8.9-mile (14.3 km) route involves significant elevation gain, summiting multiple peaks and rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views.

Dogs are widely welcomed on trails throughout Allerdale. However, you'll be hiking through areas with livestock, especially sheep. It's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control at all times to ensure the safety of the animals and your pet. Always check for specific restrictions, particularly during lambing season in the spring.

For stunning, panoramic views over Keswick and Derwent Water, the hike to Walla Crag is a local favorite. While many trails offer great scenery, the viewpoint from Walla Crag is particularly celebrated and accessible without the difficulty of a major peak ascent.

Yes, the varied landscape of Allerdale includes some beautiful waterfalls. While hiking in the Borrowdale valley, you can discover cascades like Holme Force. The High Seat, Walla Crag & Castlehead loop passes near several gills and forces, adding to the scenic beauty of the walk.

Yes, many popular trailheads, especially around Keswick, are accessible via public transport. Bus services connect major towns to villages like Braithwaite, Seatoller, and Buttermere, which are starting points for numerous hikes. Using the bus can be a great way to do linear walks without worrying about returning to a car park.

Parking can be limited, especially during peak season and on weekends. Popular trailheads near Keswick, Buttermere, and in the Borrowdale valley have pay-and-display car parks, including some run by the National Trust. It's highly recommended to arrive early to secure a spot or consider using public transport as an alternative.

The weather in the Lake District can change very quickly, even on a sunny day. Essential items include:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers: Rain can arrive with little warning.
• Sturdy hiking boots: Trails can be rocky, steep, and muddy.
• Layers of clothing: A fleece and base layer allow you to adjust to changing temperatures.
• Map and compass (and a GPS/phone): Don't rely solely on your phone, as signal can be unreliable in the fells.
• Food and water: Pack more than you think you'll need.

Allerdale offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. For birdwatching, the Solway Coast AONB is a must-visit, with its salt marshes and estuaries attracting numerous species. For a different experience, the Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve is a highly-regarded spot for observing birds, butterflies, and other insects in a wetland habitat.

Absolutely. Many of the most popular hikes in the region are circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. Great examples include the Derwent Water loop from Keswick and the Castle Crag Borrowdale loop, both offering varied scenery on a round trip.

There are over 1,600 hiking routes to explore in Allerdale on komoot. They range from easy lakeside strolls and coastal paths to moderate fell walks and difficult mountain ascents, offering something for every fitness and experience level.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible diversity of the landscape, from the dramatic views atop the fells like Skiddaw and Catbells to the serene beauty of lakeside paths around Derwent Water and Buttermere.