The Lake District, a jewel in the crown of England’s natural landscapes, offers an array of family-friendly hikes that are perfect for those camping in the region.
With its stunning lakes, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, the Lake District is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family looking for a leisurely walk, packing your day rucksacks and setting out on these trails promises a memorable experience.
Here’s a detailed look at 10 such hikes, each offering its unique charm and adventure.
Sale Fell: Nestled near Bassenthwaite Lake, Sale Fell is an ideal starting point for families new to hiking. Standing at 359 meters, it’s a relatively small fell, making it accessible for little legs. The ascent is gentle yet rewarding, unveiling panoramic views that stretch across the Skiddaw range and over to the Solway Firth in Scotland. The summit offers a surprising breadth of scenery for such a modest climb, making it a perfect introduction to the Lake District’s majestic fells. Along the way, families can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, making it an educational journey as well.
Castlerigg Stone Circle to Low Rigg: This hike begins at the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle, a remarkable Neolithic monument set against the backdrop of Helvellyn and High Seat. The walk to Low Rigg is a journey through time, where ancient history meets natural beauty. The path meanders through picturesque lanes, leading to Tewart Tarn, a serene spot ideal for a family picnic. As you ascend towards Low Rigg, the terrain can get a bit challenging, but the effort is well rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Brandelhow Bay: For a tranquil lakeside stroll, Brandelhow Bay is an excellent choice. The walk, taking about two hours, is perfect for young children and can be navigated with an all-terrain pushchair. The path winds through enchanting woodlands and along the shores of Derwentwater, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance. In late spring, the woods are carpeted with bluebells, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The well-maintained paths make it an enjoyable walk for all ages.
Easedale Tarn: Starting from the picturesque village of Grasmere, the walk to Easedale Tarn is a delightful venture into the heart of the Lake District. The path gradually ascends into the hills, leading to the tranquil Easedale Tarn, nestled in a hanging valley. The tarn, surrounded by towering fells, is a picturesque spot for a family picnic. The route, around six miles long, is well-marked but can be rocky, offering a bit of a challenge for older children.
Rydal Water and Cave: This accessible walk starts at White Moss Common and leads to the enchanting Rydal Water and Cave. Part of the ‘Miles without Stiles’ initiative, the path is suitable for pushchairs and offers a gentle walk along the lake’s shoreline. The highlight is the cave, where families can explore and create echoes, adding an element of adventure to the walk. The return path offers stunning views of Grasmere lakeshore, completing a perfect family outing.
Latrigg: Overlooking Keswick and Derwentwater, Latrigg is one of the smallest fells in the Lake District but offers some of the most spectacular views. The walk is easily accessible from Keswick and is ideal for introducing little ones to fell walking. The path can be steep in places, but the summit is reached quickly, unveiling breathtaking views of Bassenthwaite Lake and the Skiddaw range. The panoramic vistas from Latrigg make it a rewarding hike for families.
Ravenglass and Eskdale: Incorporating a ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, this walk offers a unique Lake District experience. The walk at Eskdale Green features a Japanese Garden and picturesque woodland, providing a gentle hike with beautiful views of the fells. For a more challenging walk, families can head to Muncaster Fell from Ravenglass, exploring the western edge of the Lake District and experiencing a different aspect of the region’s natural beauty.
Catbells: Catbells is an iconic fell and a popular choice for families. The climb includes some scrambly sections, making it an exciting adventure for children. The summit offers stunning views of the lakes, valleys, and surrounding mountains. The approach via a steamer from the Keswick Launch adds an extra dimension to the experience, making it an unforgettable day out that encapsulates everything the Lake District has to offer.
Seat How, Whinlatter Forest: Located near Herdwick Croft Caravan Park, Seat How summit trail in Whinlatter Forest is a fantastic family destination. The trail takes you through the forest and heather moorland up to 500m, offering spectacular views of Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and the surrounding fells. The path is clearly marked and features benches for rest stops, making it suitable for families with young children.
Mirehouse to Dodd Wood, Bassenthwaite: Starting from Mirehouse and Gardens, this walk offers a variety of experiences, from lakeside strolls to woodland adventures. The family nature trail and pine wood trail are perfect for young explorers, while the open parkland and lakeside walks provide stunning scenery. The estate also features four adventure play areas, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in the family.
Each of these hikes in the Lake District offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region, making them perfect for families camping in the area.
With their manageable distances and breathtaking views, these trails are sure to create lasting memories for both young and old adventurers.
Andy Halliday is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and an avid camper. He has been exploring the wilderness and camping in the great outdoors for over two decades, and his experiences have inspired him to write about the joys of camping and the beauty of nature.
As a camping enthusiast, he believes that spending time in the wilderness is not just a way to escape the daily grind, but also a way to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Andy has camped in various locations across the country and on two different continents. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with fellow campers.
Through his writing, he hopes to inspire you to venture out into the wilderness and experience the beauty and serenity of camping. Andy articles and guides provide useful tips, advice, and insights on everything from selecting the right gear and equipment to finding the best campsites and hiking trails.
