The Lake District, located in the North West, is England’s largest National Park and even a UNESCO World Heritage Site with something for everyone from 16 spectacular lakes (obvs) to stunning waterfalls, to caves and ridge walks. You might think exploring this region means extreme hikes with all the professional gear with the Lake District being known for its lofts fells which can include some pretty steep climbs. Fans of a relaxed ramble don’t stress we’ve got you with 19 of the best easy lake district walks. At Days Out we’re big fans of leisurely jaunts, picturesque picnics and taking the time to savour the views. Whether you’re a hiking newbie, got the whole family in tow or just someone who likes to amble rather than sprint, we’ve got you covered.
While the stunning main chamber is often the star of the show, Cathedral Quarry has so much more to show. With a range of tunnels and passages to explore this location make the perfect easy Lake District adventure.
There are a few routes to take to the cavern with the easiest route only taking around 15 minutes each way. If you’re up for a slight detour Slater’s Bridge is a great second spot to checkout.
Duration: 1 hour
If you’re after a wild swimming spot this one is for you. There are dozens of natural pools with crystal clear water plus stunning waterfalls – what more could you want? The views from the valley are spectacular with fells and craggy cliff walls for even more atmosphere.
Duration: 2.5 hours
One of the most atmospheric waterfalls in the Lake District. Stanley Ghyll plunges into a sheer ravine and is surrounded by dramatic scenery. The walk to the waterfall takes you alongside multiple cascades and through a mossy woodland.
There is one short sharp climb to reach the upper viewpoint but it only lasts for 250m (the stairs are also slightly uneven).
Duration: 2 hours
This spooky cave has a layer of jagged rocks which look like a set of sharp teeth at its entrance. This atmospheric (and slightly eerie) cave is a popular Lake District location. There’s a less popular second cave nearby which if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous can climb up to (aided by a rope).
Duration: 30min – 1 hour
A great spot for young families being pushchair friendly with a well-maintained gravel path running around the loop of the lake.
A short loop around the gorgeous Tarn Hows is the perfect peaceful walk in the Lake District. (Top tip: visit in the late afternoon once most other visitors have left for the day).
For a slightly longer adventure you can also walk to Tom Gill waterfall and Black Fell from the Tarn Hows loop track.
Duration: 1 hour
You’ve probably seen this one on TikTok. It’s super popular and for good reason. This spectacular series of waterfalls and pools can be reached via an easy walking track. The main infinity pool looks out over the stunning valley, fells and Buttermere Lake. The walk is mainly flat and on a well maintained path. The last couple of hundred metres is slightly more rustic (but still easy to walk on).
Past the infinity pool the walk does become slightly less beginner friendly with no defined path.
Duration: 1 hour
Stock Ghyll Force is located just a few minutes walk from the centre of Ambleside village. The pictureseque double drop waterfall is located in a pretty woodland which is a great spot to visit in the Autumn
Duration: 30 minutes
A great hike all year round that passes Stock Ghyll Force around halfway to the summit. Wansfell Pike boasts beautiful views over Ambleside. There’s great signage on this 4-mile walk so don’t stress about getting lost.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Aira Force waterfall is one of the most popular spots in the Lake District and its not hard to see why. Located in the Eastern Lakes near Lake Ullswater there’s easy access to this waterfall via various paths. Whichever route you take do expect some stair climbing. We recommend taking the Sitka Spruce path to the falls, returning via Ullswater Way track for a pleasant circuit.
This is one to avoid after heavy rainfall (murky frothy water isn’t quite as appealing).
If you’re up for slightly more adventure there are some great hidden swimming spots in the High Cascades above the main falls. While it involves some additional stairs, the track isn’t particularly challenging.
This is a popular spot so its best to plan your trip to avoid the midday and weekend rush.
For a straightforward circular walk from Aira Falls car park to the falls and back typically takes about 1 hour. While it isn't entirely flat due to forest inclines, it's a suitable walk for children.
Duration: 1 hour
Featuring one of the most popular lakes in the Lake District – Windermere. This walk offers amazing views with a very beginner friendly route. Starting in Windermere town centre, your biggest challenge will be finding parking! The hike itself is a breeze taking about 20 minutes to reach the summit. From the top you’ll be treated to breath-taking views including Lake Windermere and on clear days distant fells like Scafell Pike. The accessible trail, rich history, and stunning vistas make it a must-visit spot for exploring the Lake District.
Duration: 30 minutes
Grasmere Lake Loop offers a perfect flat beginner friendly loop. It does require some road walking but the roads tend to be quiet and still very charming. The loop features the White Moss Wood and star of the show Grasmere Lake. A great one for families the path is in great shape throughout.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Another great beginner walk in Grasmere this one features a fell and is a great summit to reach without being too challenging. Doable in around 2 hours this is a great walk to do at sunset. There’s no difficult scrambles or issues finding the path so great for amateur hikers. It can be quite steep but there’s plenty of spots to catch your breath. The views from the top are worth getting a little out of breath for!
You might even spot a red squirrel if you’re lucky on this walk.
Duration: 2 hours
Another short fell walk that’s slightly more challenging than Helm Crag but still very doable for most.
You have a few options with routes, we recommend starting at Rosthwaite which starts out flat along the river before a steep (but quick!) climb to the summit.
You might want to avoid this one in the rain as the summit does require venturing up a slate pile (only a few minutes).
There are some beautiful woods on the route back to Rosthwaite with a river and hidden cave to explore.
Duration: 1.5 hours
The most challenging walk on our list but well worth the views and variety. Starting on pretty country lanes before coming out to a wide open view of the fells, this is one lovely walk.
As you descend from the peak the lake view stays with you most of the way. There is a small section of scrambling on the descent but is great practice if you’re planning on taking on some bigger fells.
Duration: 3 hours
The stunning view from Catbells makes this a popular spot. With this iconic fell overlooking lake Derwentwater and Keswick. There is a slightly steep incline but it’s short so ideal for beginners. Walk further along the ridge to really take in the sights and if your after a quieter picnic spot as the top of Cat Bells is usually quite busy.
Duration: 3 hours
In a much quieter area in the centre of the Lake District lies Elterwater in the Langdale Valley. For an easy walk park in the village of Elterwater and enjoy a circular route following part of the Cumbria Way.
You can follow the river and head to Skelwith Falls and continue on to Skelwith Bridge. For a longer route (an extra mile or so) head back through the woodland to Elterwater.
Duration: 1 hour
A slightly more strenuous hike takes you from Stickle Tarn from Great Langdale a short drive from Elterwater. Start your walk from Sticklebarn and follow the trail past small waterfalls and rock pools. Past this point the path gets a little steeper and can require a bit of a scramble so make sure you’re wearing your best walking shoes! The view from the top of Stick Tarn is well worth this slightly more challenging hike.
Duration: 2 hours
For a flatter woodland walk, head to Grizedale. Located between Coniston and Windermere, Grizedale Foresrt is a vast woodland in the heart of the lakes and is the perfect spot for a couple of hours walk (or mountain biking and Go Ape if you’re up for it!). There’s picnic areas, play areas, a visitor centre and facilities so a great spot for families.
You have your pick of 10 walking trails of various lengths.
Duration: Depending on your route anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours
Possibly the easiest and most accessible in the Lake District. This is a great walk to stretch your legs.. You’ll be able to see Keswick and Derwentwater and Cat Bells’ humpback ridge behind the town too. The views from the summit are well worth it. A few minutes down the road you’ll find Castlerigg Stone Circle which is also worth a visit.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
