What could be a better way to unwind than by taking a refreshing walk in the famed Lake District? Whether ambling around the shore of a serenely tranquil lake, or traversing across a jagged ridge, The Lakes have walks for all ages and abilities. Walking in the Lake District will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in England.
Take a look at some great Lake District easy walks that are less than five miles long and suitable for children.
Derwent Water Walk
Keswick is a laid-back gateway to the northern Lake District. The pleasant buggy-friendly stroll south of the town along the shores of Derwent Water is the first introduction to the charms of the Lakes for many.
For a more tranquil experience, another flat and accessible Derwent Water walk hugs the south west corner of the lake. Starting from Hawes End, the out-and-back route follows the wooded shoreline below Cat Bells. The route passes several ferry jetties and offers marvellous views across the lake.
Grasmere and Rydal Water are two of the prettiest lakes accessible from both the southern and northern Lakeland. Families with young children and buggies may enjoy a short potter along the River Rothay linking the two lakes. Start at the car park at the western end of Rydal Water. Paths can easily be followed round the lovely Grasmere for the more adventurous.
More accomplished hikers may enjoy the reasonably challenging climb from Grasmere village up to Alcock Tarn. The Alcock Tarn walk is a loop of around four miles, passing onto the fells below Heron Pike. It boasts stunning views to the west and south, and over the picturesque Grasmere village in the middle of the valley. Alcock Tarn was originally known as Butter Crags Tarn until it was changed to its present name sometime in the 19th century.
Old Man of Coniston Walk
One the most popular hikes in the area, the Old Man of Coniston walk climbs to a high point of the southern Lakes. It is best on a clear day when you can enjoy stunning views of Coniston Water, Morecambe Bay and beyond.
The route is a fairly abrupt ascent west from Coniston village, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Start at the village or drive the first section to the car park on the Walna Scar Road. From here, wide tracks lead most of the way to the summit.
The shortest route is around five miles long, more suitable for walkers with little ones in tow. More adventurous routes over the Old Man of Coniston can take in other peaks such as Dow Crag, a majestic ridge that rises magnificently above Goat’s Water.
These Lake District easy walks are simple to follow, but we do recommend you have a map of the area to hand. There are two A-Z Adventure Atlases available for the Lake District. A-Z Adventure Atlases have the accuracy and quality of OS 1: 25 000 mapping and are indexed within a single book, making them the perfect companion for walkers, off-road cyclists, horse riders and anyone wishing to explore this beautiful landscape.
The Derwent Water Walk and surrounding area is covered in the Northern Fells Map here. The Grasmere and Coniston Walks and surrounding areas are covered in the Southern Fells Map here.
