5 Easy Walks in the Lake District
You do not need to climb a high fell to enjoy the Lake District. The national park has many short and easy routes beside lakes, through woodland and around peaceful tarns.
These five easy walks in the Lake District are ideal for beginners, families and anyone looking for a more relaxed day outdoors. Each route offers beautiful scenery without a long or difficult mountain climb. For those looking for longer routes with the support of a guide we offer a range of walks in the lake district.
| Walk | Location | Distance | Approximate time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarn Hows Circular | Near Coniston | 2 miles | 1 hour |
| Buttermere Lakeshore | Buttermere | 4.5 miles | 2–3 hours |
| Aira Force Waterfall Trail | Ullswater | 0.9 miles | 45–60 minutes |
| Blea Tarn Trail | Great Langdale | 1.8 miles | 1–2 hours |
| Loughrigg Tarn Circuit | Near Skelwith Bridge | 1.7 miles | Around 1 hour |
1. Tarn Hows Circular Walk
Tarn Hows is one of the best-known easy walks in the Lake District. It sits between Coniston and Hawkshead and is surrounded by woodland, open countryside and distant fells.
The main path follows the edge of the tarn. It is wide and firm in most places, although there are some gentle slopes. There are also several benches where you can stop and enjoy the view.
This route is a good choice for first-time visitors. It offers classic Lake District scenery without a steep climb.
- Location: Between Coniston and Hawkshead
- Distance: Around 2 miles
- Duration: Around 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
2. Buttermere Lakeshore Walk
The circular walk around Buttermere is longer, but most of the route is fairly level. The path stays close to the water and provides excellent views of Fleetwith Pike, Haystacks and the surrounding fells.
Along the way, you will pass through woodland and beneath the famous rock tunnel near Hassness. There is one short rock step where you may need to use your hands. The route also includes a brief section beside the road.
Allow extra time for photographs and breaks beside the lake. Buttermere village has places to eat and drink after your walk.
- Location: Buttermere, near Cockermouth
- Distance: Around 4.5 miles
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy, with one short rocky section
3. Aira Force Waterfall Trail
Aira Force is a dramatic waterfall near the shore of Ullswater. The short Waterfall Trail starts close to the main National Trust car park and runs through attractive woodland.
Well-marked paths lead towards the waterfall and its stone bridges. The route has steps, slopes and uneven sections, so it may feel harder than a flat lakeside path. However, its short distance makes it suitable for many beginners.
Visitors who want to spend longer in this part of the national park can also explore Northern Guiding’s Ullswater walking break. It includes a choice of guided high- and low-level walks based around Glenridding.
- Location: Ullswater, between Glenridding and Pooley Bridge
- Distance: Around 0.9 miles
- Duration: 45–60 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy, with steps and short climbs
4. Blea Tarn Trail
Blea Tarn lies between Great Langdale and Little Langdale. Although the route is short, it provides superb views of the Langdale Pikes and surrounding mountains.
The trail follows a mostly level stone path through open countryside and woodland. There are gentle slopes, but no major climb. Some areas can become wet or muddy after heavy rain.
This peaceful walk is a good choice for families and beginners. It is also ideal when you only have a couple of hours to explore the area.
- Location: Great Langdale
- Distance: Around 1.8 miles
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
5. Loughrigg Tarn Circuit
Loughrigg Tarn is close to Skelwith Bridge and the southern side of Loughrigg Fell. This short circular route offers open views across the water towards the Langdale Pikes.
The walk uses country lanes, tracks and public paths. It has a few gentle slopes but avoids the steeper climb to the top of Loughrigg Fell. This makes it a pleasant option for walkers who want good views without reaching a summit.
The route can be wet in places, so walking shoes or boots with a good grip are useful.
- Location: Near Skelwith Bridge and Elterwater
- Distance: Around 1.7 miles
- Duration: Around 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
What Should You Take on an Easy Lake District Walk?
Conditions in the Lake District can change quickly, even on lower paths. Take a waterproof jacket, warm layer, water and a charged phone. Suitable walking shoes are also important, as paths may be muddy, rocky or slippery.
Check the weather before leaving and allow more time than the estimated duration if you plan to stop for breaks.
If you would like help choosing a route or want to explore the fells with an experienced leader, view Northern Guiding’s full range of guided walks in the Lake District. Walks are graded by difficulty, making it easier to find an experience that suits your fitness and confidence.