As you seek to make the most out of your family time, the Lake District offers an ideal destination for bonding, adventure, and making beautiful memories. Known for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged green hills, and charming small villages, the Lake District offers a variety of family-friendly walking paths. This article takes you on a journey through the best lake district walks, unveiling not just their unique features, but also what makes each trail a perfect choice for a family outing.
The Helvellyn Summit Walk
Situated in the Lake District National Park, the Helvellyn summit walk is a spectacular route that never fails to impress. The 3rd highest peak in England, Helvellyn offers a moderately challenging walk, merging the thrill of walking with the reward of breathtaking views.
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The Helvellyn walk stretches for about 8 miles, a route that will take you approximately 5 hours to complete. From the summit, which stands at an imposing 950m, you will enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding landscape. You’ll marvel at the beauty of Red Tarn, a shimmering body of water that provides a mind-blowing backdrop to your adventure. Remember to pack a picnic – there are plenty of scenic spots for a family lunch.
The Catbells Circular Walk
If you’re looking for an easy trail that still offers a sense of achievement, the Catbells Circular Walk is a perfect choice. This trail is particularly ideal for families with small children or members who aren’t accustomed to more strenuous hikes.
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Despite being only 3.5 miles long and taking roughly 2 hours to complete, Catbells offers some of the best views in the Lake District. The circular route takes you to a summit of 451m, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Derwentwater, one of the most picturesque lakes in the district.
The Old Man of Coniston Walk
A beloved route for many walkers, the Old Man of Coniston walk is an unforgettable adventure in the Lake District. Nestled in the Furness Fells, this walk is both challenging and rewarding, providing a genuine sense of achievement for families.
The walk stretches for about 6 miles, a distance you can cover in roughly 4 hours. The trail takes you to the summit of the Old Man, which stands at a majestic 803m. From the top, you can soak in the stunning views of the Coniston Water and the surrounding fells.
Scafell Pike Walk
Scafell Pike is not only the tallest mountain in England but also home to one of the most fantastic walks in the Lake District. This route offers a unique, adventurous experience for families looking to challenge themselves and create memories on the trail.
The Scafell Pike walk covers about 6 miles, and it will typically take around 5 hours to complete. The journey to the summit, which is an incredible 978m high, is fairly challenging but incredibly rewarding. The view from the top overlooks the beautiful Wastwater and a collection of the district’s stunning lakes and mountains.
The Buttermere Walk
Last but not least is the Buttermere Walk. Considered one of the easiest Lake District walks, this trail is perfect for a relaxing family day out. It provides a gentle, enjoyable stroll around one of the district’s most beautiful lakes.
The Buttermere Walk is approximately 4.5 miles long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The walk revolves around Buttermere, offering an idyllic, peaceful countryside experience. The lake, surrounded by a fantastic mix of woodland and fells, is a sight to behold.
In conclusion, the Lake District is a paradise for walkers, with routes to suit everyone. From the heights of Helvellyn to the tranquillity of Buttermere, there are countless adventures waiting for your family in this national park. So, pack your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable walking experience in the Lake District.
Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell Circular Walk
A veritable gem to discover in the Lake District National Park is the enticing Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell circular walk. This moderate walking route is particularly ideal for families who crave an exciting and immersive blend of woodland, water and fell terrain.
The Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell walk is approximately 6 miles long and takes about 4 hours to complete on a leisurely pace. The trail begins at the White Moss Car Park and takes you through a captivating mixture of ancient woodland, quiet country lanes, and impressive craggy fells. The trail circumnavigates the mesmerizing Rydal Water, offering numerous opportunities for tranquil picnic spots along the shoreline.
The highlight of this family-friendly circular walk is the ascent to Loughrigg Fell. Despite its lower elevation of 335m, it offers remarkable panoramic views of the Lake District, captivating your senses with the beauty of the Grasmere, Elterwater, and Windermere. As you descend, the trail diverts through Rydal Cave, a man-made quarry that is sure to excite the younger members of the family.
Aira Force and Gowbarrow Fell Walk
One of the most stunning trails Lake District has to offer, the Aira Force and Gowbarrow Fell walk, promises a day filled with awe and adrenaline. This distinctive walk encompasses the spellbinding Aira Force waterfall, making it an unmatched adventure in the national park.
This moderate circular walk is approximately 4.5 miles and takes around 3 hours to complete. The walk begins at the Aira Force car park, maintained by the National Trust, and immediately immerses you in the enchantment of the surrounding ancient woodland. As you move along the trail, you will be treated to the sight and sound of the spectacular Aira Force, a 65ft waterfall that cascades through a gorge in the woodland.
The trail then leads you to the summit of Gowbarrow Fell, standing at a height of 481m. From the top, enjoy the commanding views of Ullswater, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District, and the surrounding fells. In spring, this walk is particularly charming, with bluebells carpeting the woodland floor and lambs frolicking in the fields.
In Conclusion
The Lake District is undeniably rich with family-friendly walks, each offering its unique charm and adventure. Whether you prefer the high peaks like Scafell Pike, the serene lakes like Rydal Water, or the enchanting waterfalls like Aira Force, there is a perfect walk for every family. Keep in mind the route details, car park locations, trail lengths, and estimated time hours to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. So, gear up, and prepare yourself for an exhilarating walking experience that will leave you yearning for more in the breathtaking Lake District National Park.
