The Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque villages. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in this breathtaking landscape, Lake District National Park Guided Walks offer an exceptional opportunity to explore the region with the guidance of knowledgeable volunteers.
Types of Guided Walks in the Lake District National Park
The Lake District National Park Authority offers a diverse range of guided walks to cater to visitors with varying fitness levels and interests. These walks can be broadly categorized into three main types:
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Easy and Accessible Walks: These walks are designed for those seeking a leisurely pace, with flat or rolling paths that are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. These walks typically cover a distance of 3-7 km (1.8-4.5 miles) and last 1.5-2.5 hours.
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Easy Walks: These walks are suitable for families and those with a moderate level of fitness. They involve short ascents and descents, generally on firm paths, and cover a distance of 4-10 km (2.5-6 miles) over 2.5-4 hours.
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Moderate Walks: These walks are designed for those with a good level of fitness, as they involve hilly ground and rough, uneven surfaces. These walks cover a distance of 6-15 km (3.7-9 miles) and can last 3-6 hours.
Availability and Cost of Guided Walks
The Lake District National Park Authority offers free guided walks from March to October, which can be booked online through their website. In addition, private companies such as Mountain Walks and Ambleside Adventure offer paid guided walks, with costs ranging from £40 to £50 per person for half-day and full-day walks.
Duration and Difficulty Level of Guided Walks
The duration and difficulty level of the guided walks in the Lake District National Park vary depending on the type of walk:
| Walk Type | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Easy and Accessible Walks | 3-7 km (1.8-4.5 miles) | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Easy Walks | 4-10 km (2.5-6 miles) | 2.5-4 hours |
| Moderate Walks | 6-15 km (3.7-9 miles) | 3-6 hours |
Booking and Information for Lake District National Park Guided Walks
Booking for the free guided walks offered by the Lake District National Park Authority can be done online through their website. Detailed route descriptions, including distance, time, ascent, and grade, are also available on the website to help visitors plan their walks.
Additional Services Offered
In addition to the guided walks, the Lake District National Park also offers:
- Winter Skills Courses: Available from November to April, these courses provide instruction on navigating the Lake District’s landscapes during the colder months.
- Miles Without Stiles Routes: The Lake District National Park has 51 accessible routes that are suitable for people with limited mobility.
Reviews and Testimonials
The Lake District National Park guided walks have received positive reviews from visitors, with many praising the knowledgeable volunteers and the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes. Private guided walk companies, such as Mountain Walks and Ambleside Adventure, also have client testimonials highlighting the quality of their services.
Key Dates and Events
The guided walks in the Lake District National Park are available from March to October, with winter skills courses offered from November to April.
Key Locations for Guided Walks
The guided walks in the Lake District National Park depart from various locations, including:
- Keswick
- Ambleside
- Grasmere
- Coniston
Key Organizations Offering Guided Walks
The main organizations offering guided walks in the Lake District National Park are:
- Lake District National Park Authority (free guided walks)
- Mountain Walks (paid guided walks)
- Ambleside Adventure (paid guided walks)
Key Contacts and Websites
For more information on Lake District National Park Guided Walks, you can contact the following organizations:
- Lake District National Park Authority: 01539 724 555, https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/
- Mountain Walks: 01539 445 533, https://www.mountain-walks.co.uk/
- Ambleside Adventure: 01539 432 733, https://www.amblesideadventure.co.uk/
Reference:
– Lake District National Park Authority
– Mountain Walks
– Ambleside Adventure