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10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in The Lake District

19 August 2022 · In: England, Hike, Lake District, UK

easy walks in the lake district

Planning a visit to the Lake District and looking for the best easy walks? Here are 10 effortless trails suitable for beginners, including short, flat and circular routes.

Located in northwest England, the Lake District is a mountainous region and an incredible place to hike through breathtaking landscapes, from stunning fells to hidden lakes. Filled with beauty and history, the National Park provides scenic trails for all levels, from beginners to more advanced ramblers. So, no matter where you are on your hiking journey, the Lakes has something for everyone!

In this article, discover the best easy walks in the Lake District if you are short on time or looking to stretch your legs. From flat to moderate uphill paths, these circular routes are ideal for an evening stroll or a family getaway and will give you a perfect taste of the fells without too much effort. Enjoy!

READ MORE: The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure here.

VIEW TABLE OF CONTENTS
  • Overview: short flat walks in the Lake District
  • Easy & beginner Lake District walks – Map
  • Best easy walks & hikes in the Lake District
    • 1- Orrest Head, Windermere
    • 2- Grasmere & Rydal Water
    • 3- Tarn Hows, Coniston
    • 4- Buttermere
    • 5- Blea Tarn, Little Langdale
    • 6- Hallin Fell, Ullswater
    • 7- Latrigg, Keswick
    • 8- Castle Crag, Borrowdale
    • 9- Loughrigg Fell, Ambleside
    • 10- Catbells, Keswick
  • Preparing for a walk in the Lake District
    • Sustainable hiking tips
    • Eco-friendly hiking packing suggestions 
  • England travel planning guide
  • Lake District easy walks – FAQ

Overview: short flat walks in the Lake District

  1. Orrest Head, Windermere
  2. Grasmere & Rydal Water
  3. Tarn Hows, Coniston
  4. Buttermere
  5. Blea Tarn, Little Langdale
  6. Hallin Fell, Ullswater
  7. Latrigg, Keswick
  8. Castle Crag, Borrowdale
  9. Loughrigg Fell, Ambleside
  10. Catbells, Keswick
easy walks in the lake district
Looking for more challenging hikes? Check out this article:
Best Hikes in the UK: 16 Scenic Walking Trails

Easy & beginner Lake District walks – Map

Click on the pin to display more information & top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Best easy walks & hikes in the Lake District

easy walks in the lake district
Not sure which backpack to choose for your hike? Check out this article: 
10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking

1- Orrest Head, Windermere

Orrest Head
© Canva Pro
easy walks in the lake district
© Canva Pro
  • Distance – 2.7 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 to 2 hours
  • Grade – A short walk that requires modest uphill walking.
  • Start point – Where the narrow lane next to the Windermere Hotel leaves the main road.

Orrest Head is a hill offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside from its summit, located on the northern edge of Windermere, not far from the railway station and town centre. Its accessibility and spectacular panoramas overlooking the lake make it a perfect short walk for everyone and a great discovery if it is your first time in the Lake District.

The Orrest Head Walk is a circular route from Windermere to the top of the hill and was the introduction to the National Park of famous fell walker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright. It is short and easy but perfect if you want an excellent vantage point over the southern lakes without much effort.

The journey to the summit takes about 20 minutes. From the top, the quickest way back is to return and retrace your steps. However, if you wish to walk longer, the route as described below heads north to join a path briefly near Causeway Farm. 

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Begin in Windermere: start your walk from Windermere town or Bowness-on-Windermere. 
  2. Head to Orrest Head: from the town, follow the signs to Orrest Head. The walk begins through residential areas and then leads onto a footpath.
  3. Follow the path: the path is well-marked, and you will be walking through woodlands and open fields. The climb is not too strenuous, making it a suitable walk for all levels.
  4. Reach Orrest Head summit: after a relatively short climb, you will reach the summit of Orrest Head. Once at the top, take some time to appreciate the stunning scenery, which includes Lake Windermere, the Coniston Fells, Langdale Pikes and more.
  5. Retrace your steps: return the same way you came or explore alternative paths for a bit of variety.

🧭 Read the full route description. 

Orrest Head Walking Route – Map

Orrest Head map

Click on the map for more details.

2- Grasmere & Rydal Water

Grasmere & Rydal Water
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 5.6 miles
  • Estimated time – 2 to 3 hours
  • Grade – A medium-length walk that demands modest uphill walking and unavoidable road sections.
  • Start point – St Oswalds church.

Rydal Water is a lovely lake near Grasmere, located at the foot of Loughrigg Fell. Although small, this lake is not lacking in beauty and breathtaking views.

The best way to enjoy Rydal Water is to combine the loop with a circular walk from Grasmere village, adding Grasmere Lake to the itinerary. This circular walk starts from Grasmere town centre, St Oswalds church. But you can begin from anywhere, as there are plenty of parking spaces around the town.

The walk initially heads around Rydal Water with a well-maintained low-level path that hugs the shores of the lake, providing great trails with plenty of opportunities for picnicking, paddling and wild swimming along the way. And for the more adventurous, venture further uphill and discover a few hidden caves, including the impressive Rydal Cave.

You will then continue your journey around Grasmere Lake whilst enjoying stunning views of the surrounding lakes and fells (and appreciate water reflections on a lucky day). You will end your walk in the town of Grasmere, where you can stop at one of the cafés for a well-deserved break.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Grasmere to Rydal Water: begin your walk from Grasmere village, heading towards Rydal Water. Follow the footpath along the western side of Grasmere whilst enjoying the views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
  2. Rydal Water: once you reach Rydal Water, continue along the footpath that goes around the lake. This part of the walk offers beautiful views of the water.
  3. Rydal Cave and waterfall: as you continue around Rydal Water, you will come across Rydal Cave and possibly a waterfall depending on the water flow. Take some time to explore the area, but be careful if the path is wet.
  4. Loughrigg Terrace: continue walking along the path on the northern side of Rydal Water, and you will reach Loughrigg Terrace. This elevated path provides stunning views of both Rydal Water and Grasmere.
  5. Return to Grasmere: follow the path back to Grasmere village, completing the circular route. 

🧭 Read the full route description. 

Grasmere & Rydal Water Walking Route – Map

Grasmere & Rydal Water map

Click on the map for more details.

3- Tarn Hows, Coniston

Tarn Hows
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 1.9 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 hour
  • Grade – An easy and short walk on a gravel track.
  • Start point – The main car park.

Located northeast of Coniston, Tarn Hows is a man-made lake and a beautiful area of the Lake District. Today, it is owned and maintained by the National Trust, which has created a path accessible for all that provides a complete circuit around the tarn (which should only take an hour).

It is a perfect short family walk offering green spaces to have fun or picnic and plenty of benches to rest along the way.

Despite its remote location, the area is a popular walking spot. Therefore, try to arrive early morning to enjoy the peace this place offers. The nearby towns of Coniston and Hawkshead are also a short drive away and have plenty of places to eat.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Follow the signposted path: from the car park, follow the signposted path around the lake. The path is relatively flat and offers beautiful views of the surrounding fells and woodlands.
  2. Enjoy the scenery: as you walk around Tarn Hows, take the time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The lake is encircled by a mix of tree species, and you will find several viewpoints where you can stop and admire the views.
  3. Optional extensions: the circular walk is approximately 1.9 miles. However, you have the option to extend your walk by exploring additional paths or connecting to nearby routes.
  4. Return to the car park: complete the circular route and return to the car park. 

🧭 Read the full route description. 

Tarn Hows Walking Route – Map

Tarn Hows map

Click on the map for more details.

4- Buttermere

Buttermere
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 4.5 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 to 2 hours
  • Grade – A flat lakeshore walk with a few narrow sections.
  • Start point – Gatesgarth Car Park.

Buttermere is a lake situated northwest in the Lake District and takes its name from the adjacent village. It offers one of the most beautiful round-the-lake walks in the National Park with its flat and accessible circular route suitable for all the family. 

Plus, be prepared to stop multiple times to capture perfect photos – every corner of the trail is a fantastic surprise!

The Buttermere trail circles the lake for 4.5 miles, with a short section on the road and a short scramble. The circuit will take 1 to 2 hours but allow more time for breaks and photos. Another good idea would be to visit it in the late afternoon to enjoy the mist and peacefulness of the surroundings. 

Buttermere is one of my favourite places in the Lake District. I have been several times in different seasons and never got bored of this place! This walk is super easy and enjoyable, especially for your first time in the Lakes or as a beginner. It is also perfect for families and dogs (as long as you keep them on lead – respect farmers!).

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Start in Buttermere village: begin your walk in the charming village of Buttermere. From here, you can choose whether to walk clockwise or anticlockwise around the lake.
  2. Follow the path: the path around Buttermere is well-marked and well-maintained. Follow the shoreline whilst enjoying the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
  3. Gatesgarth Farm: as you continue along the path, you will reach Gatesgarth Farm, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved break.
  4. Crossing Peggy’s Bridge: on the southern end of Buttermere, you will also come across Peggy’s Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue along the eastern side of the lake if you are walking clockwise or along the western side if you are walking anticlockwise.
  5. Return to Buttermere village: complete the circular route, arriving back in Buttermere village.

🧭 Read the full route description (this route starts from Buttermere village. You can follow it or start from Gatesgarth Farm). 

Buttermere Walking Route – Map

Buttermere map

Click on the map for more details.

5- Blea Tarn, Little Langdale

Blea Tarn
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 1.8 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 hour
  • Grade – A short walk with an on-road section and gravel paths.
  • Start point – Blea Tarn Car Park.

Nestled between the valleys of Little Langdale and Great Langdale, Blea Tarn is home to some of the most beautiful yet undiscovered scenery in the Lake District due to its remote location. 

The area is easy to visit with a convenient car park next to the tarn. However, it is only accessible through narrow country roads (but do not worry, they are still in good condition!). Plus, it allows the place to keep its authenticity and tranquillity.

The circular, flat Blea Tarn walk offers an excellent opportunity for all to safely enjoy the outdoors whilst appreciating stunning views of Lingmoor and Pike of Blisco and other Langdale fells, serving as a scenic backdrop. It is also a relatively short walk, just under 2 miles and taking less than an hour, depending on your pace.

And if swimming is your thing, you have come to the right place! The tarn is among the favourites as a wild swimming spot in the Lake District.

Blea Tarn is another of my favourite spots in the Lake District! I love how accessible yet remote and peaceful this place is. The car park just next to it makes it super convenient to reach and walk around the tarn, even if you are short on time. In addition, if you are a photo enthusiast, try to come in the late afternoon/evening for sunset. The tarn will offer a perfect reflection of the surrounding fell, and it is magical.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Start at Blea Tarn car park: begin your walk from the car park near Blea Tarn. Take a moment to enjoy the initial views of the tarn and the surrounding landscape.
  2. Follow the path along the tarn: as you start your walk, follow the path along the shores. The views of the tarn with the Langdale Pikes in the background are particularly stunning.
  3. Take in the scenery: as you continue along the path, take time to appreciate the scenery. Blea Tarn is known for its reflective views and picturesque setting (especially at sunset)
  4. Optional climb to Side Pike: if you are feeling more adventurous and want an elevated view, consider a short ascent to Side Pike, a fell overlooking Blea Tarn. The path is steeper but offers rewarding views.
  5. Complete the circular walk: follow the path back to the starting point, completing the circular walk around Blea Tarn.

🧭 Read the full route description.

Blea Tarn Walking Route – Map

Blea Tarn map

Click on the map for more details.

6- Hallin Fell, Ullswater

Hallin Fell
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 1.2 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 hour
  • Grade – A short hike on a grassy path with a few moderately steep sections.
  • Start point – St Peter’s church, above Howtown.

Hallin Fell is a well-known hill in the Lake District offering stunning 360 panoramic views over Ullswater. It also provides a short and easy hike for the whole family and any level walker.

Additionally, its location at the southern end of Ullswater means that it is one of the least visited fells – you might have the summit all to yourself!

The route up to Hallin Fell is easy to follow and ideal for beginners. It takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete the loop, and you will enjoy sweeping views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells throughout your journey.

You can start the circuit from Howtown if you come with the streamer or St Peter’s Church where you can park. Follow the main path to reach the top, but do not get discouraged on the way up or if it looks steep. The walk is short, and do not hesitate to take breaks. 

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Follow the path to Hallin Fell: the route typically follows a well-defined path that ascends from the car park to the summit of Hallin Fell. The initial section of the walk may involve a short climb, but it is not overly strenuous.
  2. Reach the summit of Hallin Fell: once you reach the summit, take in the breathtaking views of Ullswater, the surrounding fells and the distant mountains, providing an excellent vantage point for photo lovers.
  3. Optional circular walk around the summit: the summit of Hallin Fell has a circular path around its top, allowing you to explore different viewpoints and enjoy a 360-degree panorama.
  4. Descend and complete the circular route: descend from the summit following the path that leads back to the starting point, completing the circular route.

🧭 Read the full route description.

Hallin Fell Walking Route – Map

Hallin Fell map

Click on the map for more details.

7- Latrigg, Keswick

Latrigg
© Canva Pro
easy walks in the lake district
© Canva Pro
  • Distance – 1.2 miles
  • Estimated time – 1 hour
  • Grade – A short walk with modest uphill sections.
  • Start point – Car park at the head of Gale Road.

Latrigg is one of the lowest fells in the Lake District and a favoured climb due to its ideal location overlooking the town of Keswick and the beautiful views over the Borrowdale Valley from the summit. 

It offers a perfect afternoon stroll if you are short on time or looking to stretch your legs. Additionally, you have two options to reach the top, either from Keswick or Gale Road.

You can start from Moot Hall in the town of Keswick for an easy up-and-down route via Spooney Green Lane with a circular trail around the summit.

Or you can start your walk from the small car park at Gale Road, which provides a Limited Mobility Path to the viewpoint with a fantastic panorama.

The choice is yours! In any case, this Latrigg trail is ideal for beginners and whatever the weather, as it is one of the easiest fell walks in the Lake District.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Follow the path to Latrigg: the route follows a well-maintained and marked path from the car park to the summit of Latrigg. The climb is relatively gradual, making it suitable for a wide range of walkers.
  2. Enjoy the views from the summit: once you reach the summit of Latrigg, take some time to enjoy the breathtaking views. The panorama includes Keswick, Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains.
  3. Circular path around the summit: Latrigg has a circular path around its summit, allowing you to explore different viewpoints. Take a leisurely stroll around the top to fully appreciate the scenery.
  4. Optional extension to Brundholme Wood: if you have more time and energy, you can consider extending your walk by descending from Latrigg towards Brundholme Wood.
  5. Return to Gale Road car park: follow the path back to the Gale Road car park, completing the circular route.

🧭 Read the full route description.

Latrigg Walking Route – Map

Latrigg map

Click on the map for more details.

8- Castle Crag, Borrowdale

Castle Crag
© Canva Pro
easy walks in the lake district
© Canva Pro
  • Distance – 4 miles
  • Estimated time – 2 to 3 hours
  • Grade – A medium-length hike with a mixture of steep and level sections.
  • Start point – Rosthwaite Car Park.

Located south of Derwent Water in the heart of Borrowdale, Castle Crag is a fascinating hill offering views across the lake and the surrounding fells from its summit.

The Castle Crag walk starts in the small village of Rosthwaite and takes you on a loop through magnificent scenery, following the River Derwent along the Cumbria Way and taking you to the top of Castle Crag for a fantastic panorama.

This route will also guide you on a journey through history. Castle Crag is a war memorial mountain donated to the National Trust after the First World War by the family of Second Lieutenant John Hamer. In addition, the trail passes through impressive former slate mining works, with most of them now hidden amongst the trees.

The itinerary below is for a circular route following the River Derwent to the top of Castle Crag. Alternatively, if you prefer a shorter walk, you can head straight to the summit and retrace your steps back to the car park. 

Finally, due to the nature of the terrain, I would not recommend this walk when it rains. Rocky floors and slate can quickly become slippery.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Follow the path to Castle Crag: the path to Castle Crag is well-signposted, and the route is clear. As you leave the village, you will enter woodland and start your climb towards Castle Crag.
  2. Enjoy the woodland walk: the initial part of the walk takes you through beautiful woodlands along the River Derwent. Follow the well-defined path as it gradually ascends.
  3. Reach the quarry: you will pass an old slate quarry on your way to Castle Crag. Take some time to explore the quarry, and if you are interested, you will find information boards explaining its history.
  4. Summit of Castle Crag: continue following the path, and you will reach the summit of Castle Crag. Despite its modest height, it offers fantastic panoramic views of Borrowdale and the surrounding fells.
  5. Circular route around Castle Crag: Castle Crag has a circular route around its summit. Take the time to explore and enjoy different viewpoints before starting your way down.
  6. Return to Rosthwaite: descend from Castle Crag following the same path or an alternative route. The walk forms a circular route, so you will return to Rosthwaite.

🧭 Read the full route description.

Castle Crag Walking Route – Map

Castle Crag map

Click on the map for more details.

9- Loughrigg Fell, Ambleside

Loughrigg Fell
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 6.5 miles
  • Estimated time – 2 to 3 hours
  • Grade – A medium-length hike with some road walking and occasional steep paths.
  • Start point – Ambleside town centre.

Loughrigg Fell is a popular hilltop hiking trail offering stunning views of the valleys, Lake Windermere, Grasmere and Rydal Water. 

This 6.5-mile circular walk departs from the centre of Ambleside and takes you to the top of Loughrigg Fell, along the Loughrigg Terrace and Rydal Cave. 

Varied and accessible, it also takes you on a journey through beautiful woodlands, craggy fells and scenic stone paths. The beginning may seem steep, but it is not challenging – do not hesitate to take breaks and recharge.

It is a perfect walking tour if you want to enjoy spectacular views and a taste of the fells without too much effort or scrambling, and it is suitable for beginners.

The Loughrigg Fell walk was a wonderful surprise for me! The views at each stop were breathtaking. It has been one of my favourite circular hikes, as it offers a diversity of landscapes and sceneries. Plus, you can easily do it in a few hours without rushing. And afterwards, stop at one of the cafes in Ambleside for a pleasant break. 

ROUTE OVERVIEW 

  1. Follow the Bridge House path: from Ambleside, follow the path along the River Rothay, passing by the iconic Bridge House. Continue walking as it leads away from the river towards the slopes of Loughrigg Fell.
  2. Ascend Loughrigg Fell: the climb to Loughrigg Fell is gradual, and the path is well-maintained. As you climb, enjoy the changing views of Ambleside and the surrounding countryside.
  3. Reach the summit of Loughrigg Fell: once you reach the summit of Loughrigg Fell, take in the breathtaking views. You will have a panoramic outlook over Grasmere, Rydal Water, Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.
  4. Circular walk on the summit: Loughrigg Fell has a relatively flat summit with several paths, allowing you to explore different viewpoints. Take a circular walk around the summit to fully appreciate the scenery.
  5. Loughrigg Terrace: continue walking on the path towards Grasmere, and you will reach Loughrigg Terrace, an elevated path providing more stunning views.
  6. Rydal Cave and waterfall: as you walk along Rydal Water, you will come across Rydal Cave and possibly a waterfall depending on the water flow. Take some time to explore this area, but be careful if the path is wet.
  7. Return to Ambleside: follow the paths leading back to Ambleside to complete the circular route.

🧭 Read the full route description.

Loughrigg Fell Walking Route – Map

Loughrigg Fell map

Click on the map for more details.

10- Catbells, Keswick

Catbells
© Lucie Charpentier
easy walks in the lake district
© Lucie Charpentier
  • Distance – 3.7 miles
  • Estimated time – 2 to 3 hours
  • Grade – A medium-length hike with a short steep section on the ascent and minor scrambling.
  • Start point – Hawes End.

Catbells is a famous fell near Keswick offering spectacular panoramas and easy to moderate walks. One of the main routes circularly takes you anti-clockwise to the top of the fell, where you will be able to appreciate the scenery with a picnic. 

It is a manageable hike to start with if you are a beginner or short on time. And with breathtaking views of the lakes around Keswick and Derwent Water, it is no wonder the Catbells walk is one of the most popular trails in the Lake District.

Except for a short, steep path at the start and a brief climb towards the top, Catbells is not challenging and uncomplicated to navigate – perfect for a family getaway or an evening stroll with a four-legged friend.

However, due to its popularity and the number of people who come to walk it each year, the Catbells route encounters many erosion problems. In 2017, a team undertook trail work and repair to protect fragile soils and prevent sediment from flowing into the lake. Despite this restoration, the site remains delicate and requires your attention.

Help as you walk!

You can help minimise erosion damage by staying on the main paths. Some people use shortcuts that can quickly become deep erosion scars and worsen with rain. 

🧭 Help retain the authenticity and uniqueness of Catbells by reading the full route description.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

  1. Ascend Catbells: the climb of Catbells is straightforward but can be steep in places. Follow the well-trodden path as it zigzags up the slopes. Enjoy the changing views as you climb higher.
  2. Reach the summit of Catbells: once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Derwentwater, Keswick and the surrounding mountains, including Skiddaw.
  3. Descend towards Hause Gate: make your way down from Catbells following the path towards Hause Gate. The descent provides additional scenic views, and the path is well-marked.
  4. Continue to Manesty Woods: from Hause Gate, continue on the path towards Manesty Woods. The route takes you through pleasant woodlands with glimpses of Derwentwater.
  5. Optional detour to High Spy: if you have the time and energy, you can consider a detour to the neighbouring fell, High Spy, before rejoining the main path.
  6. Return to the starting point: follow the path back to the starting point at Hawes End car park.

Catbells Walking Route – Map

Catbells map

Click on the map for more details.

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easy walks in the lake district
Planning an epic road trip across the UK? Check out this article:
London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops

Preparing for a walk in the Lake District

Sustainable hiking tips

The Lake District is one of the most popular places in the UK, but that popularity has come with an impact. Of course, many of these effects are positive. But high demand and overtourism also mean more facilities, crowds and carbon footprints, leading to more damage and challenges for the National Park to overcome and consequences you need to be aware of when walking and hiking in the Lakes.

What does sustainable travel mean?

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Want to read more about green tourism in the Lake District? Check out this article: 
The Lake District Sustainable Travel Guide.

How to be a responsible hiker in the Lake District?

Here are some tips to minimise your impact when hiking in the Lake District: (this applies to short walks and beginner hikes too!)

  • Choose your route carefully and in advance: avoid areas suffering from overtourism and hike off-season if possible to protect the environment and support the locals.
  • Stick to pre-existing trails: minimise path erosion damage by staying on the main route. It is tempting to wander, but this will endanger the local ecosystem. So do not use shortcuts.
  • Avoid making a fire: if you do, check that making fires is allowed on the land you are exploring and always consider your surroundings first, especially in summer when the terrain is dry.
  • Use a filtered water bottle: avoid single-use plastic water bottles and prioritise reusable ones such as this one. You can refill it anywhere from lake to river for clean and fresh water.
  • Wear eco-friendly sunscreen: be sure to consider which sunscreen you use, as most commercial creams contain chemicals harmful to the environment and marine life. So choose zero-waste and natural sunscreens. 
  • Do not leave a trace: do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take biodegradable bin bags with you. 
  • Respect wildlife: do not come close to wild animals and do not feed them! Please, be mindful, do not disturb their environment and remember that you are only a visitor in their home.
Want to know more?
  • The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
  • 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
  • Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
  • 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
sustainable travel checklist
easy walks in the lake district
Want more hiking inspiration? Check out this article:
10 Best Easy Walks & Hikes in Northumberland

Eco-friendly hiking packing suggestions 

The best way to visit the Lake District responsibly in any season and enjoy the outdoors is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you bring with you on a hike is essential. Here are some clothing and gear ideas for a short and easy walk in the Lakes: 

  • Boots: You will need good hiking shoes to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even for a beginner hike. Check out Merrell and La Sportiva – they have a whole line of vegan hiking shoes.
  • Backpack: It is hard to go hiking without a good backpack. It is essential for any hike, no matter the level, and will last forever if you choose the right one. Check out Osprey and Lowe Alpine.
  • Clothing: What you will wear will depend on the season and weather, but try to select sustainable and eco-friendly clothing that respects the environment. Check out Rab and North Face.
  • Food containers: Reusable containers are essential for packing your meals or snacks and reducing waste. Get a reusable meal kit, collapsible containers and bamboo cutleries to say goodbye to unwanted trash. Check out Bambaw and Light My Fire.
  • Reusable water bottle: Finally, stay hydrated on the go with a water bottle that contains a purifier filter. It will provide healthy and clean water anywhere you hike whilst avoiding waste and single-use plastic. Check out Grayl and Epic Water Filters.

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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England travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to England?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your hiking trip to the Lake District stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in England?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over England and the Lake District. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in England?
Yes, renting a car in England is easy and is a great way to explore the Lake District National Park freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in England?
The best way to book your accommodation in England and the Lake District is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to England?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Lake District easy walks – FAQ

Are there any flat walks in the Lake District?

Yes, there are plenty of easy and flat walks in the Lake District, perfect for beginners looking for epic views without much effort! You will not have to hike high fell to enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

Which is the easiest mountain to climb in the Lake District?

Catbells is one of the easiest summits to climb in the Lake District, perfect for beginners or if you are short on time. And with stunning views of the lakes around Keswick and Derwent Water, it is no wonder why it is one of the most popular trails.

Is Helm Crag an easy walk?

Helm Crag is a short walk with moderate difficulty. I would not rate it as easy as you will find many steep and rocky areas along your route to the summit – not practical when it rains!

easy walks in the lake district

And you, what is your favourite easy and flat walk in the Lake District?
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie

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By: Lucie · In: England, Hike, Lake District, UK

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