Lake District walks are the perfect activity for the whole family — even your four-legged friends. As one of the most dog-friendly hotels in the region, we know how important it is to find routes where both you and your pets can enjoy the great outdoors. So, if you’re travelling to the Lake District with dogs, you’ve already found the ideal base for adventure!
Our guide to the best walks Lake District offers showcases of some of the most scenic and dog-friendly routes across this stunning national park. Whether you prefer gentle lakeside strolls around Windermere, peaceful woodland paths near Grasmere, or more challenging climbs up Catbells and Helvellyn, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Each route highlights the incredible beauty, history, and charm that make the Lake District one of the most beloved walking destinations in the UK.
So, lace up your walking boots and get ready to explore! From leisurely ambles to adventurous hikes, these are truly some of the best walks in the Lake District that you’re sure to fall in love with.
The Best Family Walks in the Lake District
Family days out in the Lake District are truly experiences like no other! With fresh air, laughter, and adventure waiting at every turn, it’s the perfect destination for making lasting memories together. There are countless opportunities to enjoy some of the best walks Lake District families can experience — from peaceful lakeside strolls to enchanting woodland trails.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly walks in the Lake District or easy routes ideal for little explorers, the region offers something for every age and ability. These walks aren’t just about getting from A to B — they’re about discovering hidden viewpoints, spotting wildlife, and sharing those simple moments that make time outdoors so special.
So, pack a picnic, lace up your walking boots, and get ready to explore! Here are some of our favourite spots for family adventures that capture the magic of the Lake District’s great outdoors.
The West Windermere Way
Brand new for 2023, we are delighted to now have the West Windermere Way running between Newby Bridge and Lakeside, connecting us to the shores of Windermere Lake. This accessible one-mile long pathway is bike, wheelchair and horse friendly, making it a perfect option for all of our guests. Little ones will enjoy the stroll alongside our marina and may even see some local wildlife on the way! Once you arrive at Lakeside, you can grab an ice cream, enjoy a trip to the Lakes Aquarium, or even catch the Windermere Lake Cruises ferry over to Bowness-on-Windermere!
Tarn Hows
Discover why Tarn Hows is regarded as one of the best walks in the Lake District as you follow its glorious circular trail and take in the breathtaking scenery. The gentle incline gradually reveals panoramic views of the sparkling water below, creating the perfect spot for a family stroll or a peaceful moment of reflection. Ideal for visitors of all ages, this tranquil walk is just a 25-minute drive from the Swan, making it a firm favourite among both tourists and locals. With its easy paths and picture-perfect viewpoints, Tarn Hows is also a haven for photographers seeking to capture the timeless beauty of the Lake District landscape.
Galleny Force Walk
A walk around the enchanting Galleny Force waterfall is sure to captivate children of all ages — especially once they discover it’s also known as the Fairy Glen! This picturesque spot feels straight out of a storybook, making it one of the best walks Lake District families can enjoy together. Don’t forget to keep your camera close at hand to capture beautiful shots of the cascading waterfall — and perhaps even a glimpse of a fairy or two along the way. It’s the perfect walk for little adventurers whose love of magic and make-believe shines brighter than anything else.
Kendal Castle Walk
Soaked in history and stories from the past, Kendal Castle is one of the Lake District’s top attractions year-round. It is also one of the best places to visit in the Lake District if you are looking for a gentle walk that will not leave you feeling too tired. Be sure to peep through the gaps in the castle’s walls to see if you can spot any friendly ghosts!
Orrest Head Walk
The Orrest Head Walk is perfect for adventurers of all ages and is considered one of the best things to do at Lake District Windermere. As you travel down the winding path, you will be met with stunning views of the famous lake, alongside neighbouring woodland and hills. If you want to get a closer look, Lake Windemere is the best spot around for Lake District boat hire! This means that you can take to the water by rowboat, motorboat or even a kayak.
The Best Walks in the Lake District for Experienced Hikers
Sometimes, you’ll be looking for a walk that truly challenges you — one that rewards every step with breathtaking views and a real sense of accomplishment. The best walks Lake District adventurers can take on offer exactly that: a perfect balance of challenge, beauty, and exhilaration. From rugged fell climbs to steep mountain trails, these routes are ideal for experienced hikers who love testing their limits while being surrounded by some of the UK’s most dramatic scenery.
Before setting off, make sure you’re well prepared for the journey ahead. Weather in the fells can change in an instant, so always check the forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and carry the right maps and supplies. Most importantly, choose a route that suits your ability and confidence — the Lake District’s terrain can be as demanding as it is rewarding. For those seeking adventure, these are without doubt some of the best walks in the Lake District to experience.
Fairfield Horseshoe
The Fairfield Horseshoes is an adventurous walk covering 10.2 miles (16.4km) of mountainside, hills and marshlands. Ensure that you set out early to provide you with plenty of light along the way. This gives you even more chance to take in the stunning views. You should also ensure you bring plenty of snacks to enjoy along the way.
Scafell Pike
A walk up to Scafell pike is often considered one of the best walks in the Lake District. This is due to the fact that it is Britain’s highest mountain, standing tall at 978 metres above sea level. This walk is sure to leave you with a great sense of accomplishment, but it is important that you are fully prepared for a hike of this magnitude. Be sure you have a camera on hand to take photographs of the view once you reach the summit.
The Best Walks for Couples
The Lake District has long been a source of inspiration for lovers of both nature and literature. Home to some of the greatest Romantic poets and writers in history — including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey — this breathtaking region continues to captivate hearts with its timeless beauty. Surrounded by rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and charming villages, it’s easy to see why the Lake District best walks have inspired poetry, passion, and romance for centuries.
Today, couples from around the world visit this enchanting corner of England to follow in the footsteps of these literary greats. Whether you’re wandering hand in hand along the shores of Grasmere, soaking in the peaceful scenery at Rydal Water, or climbing to a viewpoint for a sunset over Windermere, the Lake District best walks for couples offer the perfect blend of tranquillity and breathtaking views.
The gentle sound of water lapping against the lakeside, the scent of wildflowers in bloom, and the sweeping panoramas that stretch for miles — every detail makes the Lake District an unforgettable destination for romance. Whether you’re planning a proposal, celebrating an anniversary, or simply enjoying time together, these romantic routes create moments that will stay with you forever.
Here are some of the Lake District best walks for couples and romantics at heart — perfect for slowing down, reconnecting, and experiencing the natural beauty that inspired generations of poets.
Darling Fell Walk
Darling Fell is a quiet, peaceful waterfall that is often the backdrop to many proposals and romantic strolls. It is a great way to spend some time together whilst surrounded by nature, and is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic!
Loweswater Walk
Loweswater is one of the lesser-known Lake District attractions, as the lake is smaller than most. However, this means that it is often much quieter and peaceful – and therefore, the perfect place for a romantic walk. If you’re looking for things to do in lake district with family, then this is the place for you.
After Walking
After a day full of walking, head to the Swan Hotel, where you can relax, unwind and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure in style. Whether this means you head for a massage at our Lake District spa, or indulge in some delicious food and drink at the Swan Inn or Cygneture Brasserie – the fun does not stop once you enter our doors. When evening falls, retire to your room or one of our luxury lake district cottages for comfortable, luxurious night’s sleep!
At the Swan Hotel, we are known for excellent service and work hard to ensure our guests have everything they need at their fingertips during a stay at our swanderful hotel.
As we’re rated one of the best spa hotels in the Lake District we’re proud to offer amazing spa treatment to our visitors. Find out more and have a spa day in Windermere.
