The Lake District National Park is a hiker’s paradise with 214 fells, 197 tarns, and thousands of miles of trails. Exploring this stunning landscape on foot is an unforgettable experience. However, with so many routes to choose from, deciding where to start can feel overwhelming.
In this blog, We’ve selected some good hikes in the Lake District to help you find the perfect adventure. These hikes offer a variety of terrains and highlight the best that this iconic National Park has to offer. No matter your experience level or fitness, you’ll find a hike suited to your needs.
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Friars Crag, Derwentwater
- Hike type: Easy , Out and back
- Hike distance: 2-5km
- Elevation gain: 5-50m
- Hike time: 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
- Parking: Theatre by the Lake car park
This delightful short walk along the Derwentwater foreshore leads to one of the most accessible and picturesque viewpoints in the Lake District. The trail takes you to Friars Crag, where breathtaking views stretch across Derwentwater towards Cat Bells and the Jaws of Borrowdale. A perfectly placed bench at the headland invites you to pause and soak in the scenery. From Friars Crag, you can choose to extend your walk by continuing the foreshore to Calfclose Bay or return the way you came to the car park. Due to its popularity and easy access, I recommend visiting at sunrise for a quieter, more magical experience.
Blea Tarn, Langdale
- Hike type: Intermediate Out and back
- Hike distance: 2.75km
- Elevation gain: 70m
- Hike time: 1 hour
- Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
- Parking: Blea Tarn National Trust car park
Nestled in a hanging valley between Little and Greater Langdale, Blea Tarn is a peaceful mountain lake surrounded by rugged fells.
This picturesque spot is a favourite among landscape photographers, offering stunning mirror-like reflections of the Langdale Pikes. It’s also an excellent location for stargazing and astrophotography, thanks to its dark sky status and easy accessibility. A National Trust car park is conveniently located opposite the tarn, with fees of £3 for 2 hours or £5 for the day. From the car park, simply cross the road and follow a 250m wheelchair-friendly path down to the shoreline.
For the most magical experience, I recommend visiting Blea Tarn at sunrise to fully appreciate its serene beauty.
Tarn Hows, Hawkshead
- Hike type: Loop
- Hike distance: 3km
- Elevation gain: 40m
- Hike time: 1-2 hours
- Wheelchair Friendly: Yes
- Parking: National Trust car park
Located in the gentle hills between the villages of Coniston and Hawkshead, Tarn Hows is one of the Lake District’s most visited and accessible tarns. Once owned by beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter, this area features a series of peaceful man-made lakes surrounded by picturesque countryside and dense conifer woodlands. A 3km wheelchair-friendly path encircles the tarn, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Helvellyn range and Langdale Pikes.
Given its popularity, I recommend visiting Tarn Hows early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy a quieter, more serene experience.
Buttermere Lake
- Hike Type: Expert Loop
- Hike distance: 12.1 mi
- Elevation gain: 3,025 ft
- Hike time: 6-7 hours
- Wheelchair Friendly: No
- Parking: National Trust Buttermere
Buttermere Valley and its lake are often celebrated as one of the most stunning landscapes in the Lake District and the UK.
Surrounded on three sides by rugged fells, the lake’s shoreline is adorned with peaceful forests. On calm days, the still waters perfectly reflect the towering crags, creating a breathtaking scene. This hike offers a full loop around Buttermere, combining tranquillity and beauty in one of the Lake District’s most picturesque walks. The trail needs hike and climbing Expert hike. Very good fitness is required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
On sunny days, consider bringing swimwear for a refreshing dip in the lake. Afterwards, stop by Croft House Farm Café for a warm drink and a bite to eat.
Exploring the hiking trails of the Lake District offers an unforgettable experience, from breathtaking mountain peaks to serene lakeside walks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, there’s always something new to discover in this stunning national park. We’ll keep you updated with the latest trail recommendations, seasonal tips, and hidden gems—so be sure to check our blog regularly for fresh insights and updates. Happy hiking!
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