Clare’s Favourite Hikes in the Lake District

England, Featured Posts, Recommendations

May 13, 2022

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Clare from our marketing team has spent nearly her whole life living and working in the Lake District, spending her weekends exploring the fells. Today, she is sharing some of her favourite hikes in the National Park with a little something for everyone, no matter your ability and interests.

Best for first time visitors – Cat Bells

Although Cat Bells is a popular fell, it is for good reason. The starting point is easy to access from towns such as Keswick and Cockermouth and there is a clear route to the summit which should take around 2 hours. I love that there is a little scramble to get to the top but it isn’t too challenging. It is a good smaller fell that allows fantastic views at the top over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.

Best for the pub at the end – Loweswater

Loweswater is a quiet little lake in the Vale of Lorton which offers a short accessible circular path around the perimeter. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and Holme Force waterfall on your way around and if you are brave, try out the rope swing over the water. No visit to Loweswater is complete without a pint of Loweswater Gold in one of my favourite Lake District pubs, the Kirkstile Inn which is located to the east of the lake.

Best for a challenge – Helvellyn

As the third highest point in England, Helvellyn is not for the faint hearted but provides a great challenge for those with a little more experience. Head up from Glenridding if you like an adrenaline rush. This circular route takes you over the ridges of both Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. Alternatively, my preferred route is the most direct which leaves from Thirmere taking around 3-4 hours depending on ability and avoids anything too challenging.

Best for families – Buttermere

Although not the shortest walk there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained on the 2-3 hour circular route around Buttermere. The lake is surrounded by dramatic hills and waterfalls, there is an ice cream van halfway around on sunny days and there is a tunnel and forests to keep children motivated. This is a walk which I did many times throughout my childhood and still enjoy today.

For more information on visiting the Lake District email groups@jactravel.com

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