
May is National Walking Month, as if we need an excuse to get out and enjoy the stunning Lake District. But to celebrate National Walking Month, we thought we’d share a few of our favourite Lake District walks we’re enjoyed with our children.
From little hills to England’s highest mountain, there’s something for all ages and abilities. And we’re going to start very close to home, Brant Fell.
Brant Fell
Brant Fell sits right at the heart of the Matson Ground Estate, so it’s perfect for anyone staying in our Windermere Cottages. From the centre of Bowness, it’s a relatively short stroll to the summit, and the reward on reaching the summit is well worth the effort, with views across the lake to Grizedale Forest, the Langdale Pikes and the Coniston range.
The walk begins in the centre of Bowness where you can grab a bite to eat before setting off up Brantfell Road, leaving the hustle and bustle of the town behind you. The early part of the walk takes in the Dales Way, before passing Post Knott viewpoint on your way to the summit of Brant Fell.
At the top you’ll see a rocky crag, only a few feet high, but another exciting adventure for the children. You’ll also come across a pair of heavy stone gateposts which were once part of a viewing platform. Sadly, it’s long since gone, but rest assured the inspiring views remain.
Gummers Howe
At the southern end of Lake Windermere is Gummers Howe, a mini mountain which has long been a firm family favourite. It feels like a mountain and there’s even a scramble to the summit should you decide to veer from the path.
The beginning of the walk is a gentle climb through fields and woodland before becoming a little steeper en-route to the summit.
This is a walk that will make your little ones feel like mini-mountaineers.
Tarn Hows
When you see Tarn Hows laid out before you, it’s hard to believe that it’s actually man-made. It looks as though it’s been part of the landscape for thousands of years.
This is one of the most popular spots in the Lake District and a fabulous place for those with young families. The circular path is just under two miles and is ideal for pushchair and wheelchair users. Small beaches add to the excitement, the perfect spot for a picnic, or simply stop at one of many benches are take in the views.
Aira Force
For anyone staying in our Ullswater Cottages, this is an absolute must.
Aira Force is arguably the best-known waterfall in the Lake District, as well as one of the easiest to get to – there’s a National Trust car park off the A592, halfway between Glenridding and Watermillock.
The circular route is another great walk for the youngsters. It could take just under an hour, but by the time they’ve hidden behind trees, marvelled at the 65-foot waterfall and spent time trying to spot red squirrels, it could be almost double that.
Catbells
At 451m, Catbells is not the highest mountain in the Lake District. But it’s a fantastic walk for children.
Located on the western shore of Derwentwater, this will feel much more like a mountain – challenging at times, with a few steep scrambles, but nothing too technical.
Parking can prove a little tricky, especially at the height of summer, so why not take a Keswick Launch to the Hawes End Jetty and start your walk from there?
Scafell Pike
We’ll finish at the top of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike. This is not a walk for really little legs.
There are a number of routes to the summit, but if you take the direct, shortest route from Wasdale Head, the trickiest part of the walk will be crossing the river shortly after setting off, where big boulders act as large stepping stones.
The path to the top is pretty obvious, although it becomes more of a boulder scramble as you approach the summit. This can be tricky to navigate, especially in cloudy conditions, so we would advise that you are accompanied by someone with experience of the Lakeland fells, and in particular, Scafell Pike.
But the sense of achievement on reaching the summit is immense. You’re literally on top of the world – well England anyway!
If you’re planning a trip to the Lake District and want to be part of National Walking Month, then hopefully there’s something here for you – from the complete novice to the more adventurous, from little legs to experienced hikers. But whatever your level of expertise, please remember to pack appropriate clothing and equipment. Walking boots, waterproofs, layers of warm clothing, a rucksack, a first aid kit, snacks, a mobile phone in case of emergencies and, of course, a map and compass. And a camera – make sure you have memories of your day in the fells.
For more information on what clothing and equipment to take with you, click here.
And don’t forget, if you’re staying in one of our Ullswater Cottages, we can offer private guided walks. Click here for the walk from Elm How or Cruck Barn, and here for the walk from Eagle Cottage.