For those new to hiking in the Lake District, there are several beginner-friendly fells that offer moderate difficulty and scenic views. These fells are perfect for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District without taking on the more challenging peaks.
Loughrigg Fell
- Parking: Pelter Bridge Car Park
- Distance: 6.5 km
- Height: 336 m
- Time: 3 hours
- Ideal for younger walkers and beginners, offering views of Nab Scar, Rydal, Grasmere, and Windermere.
Walla Crag
- Parking: Bell Close Car Park, Keswick
- Distance: 9.6 km
- Height: 379 m
- Time: 3.5 hours
- Provides exceptional views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.
Catbells
- Parking: Parking area near Hawse End
- Distance: 6 km
- Height: 451 m
- Time: 2.5 hours
- A popular walk with views of Derwentwater and the North Western Fells.
Tarn Hows and Black Fell
- Parking: Tarns How Car Park
- Distance: 8.8 km
- Height: 322 m
- Time: 3.5 hours
- Offers picturesque views of Great Langdale, Scafell Pike, Coniston Old Man, and more.
Latrigg
- Parking: Latrigg car park
- Distance: 2 miles
- Height: Not specified
- Time: Not specified
- A relatively easy walk with immense views of the Borrowdale Valley.
Gummer’s How
- Parking: Gummer’s How car park
- Distance: 1.5 miles
- Height: Not specified
- Time: Not specified
- A short and easy walk with views of Windermere.
Arnside Knott
- Parking: Arnside prom
- Distance: 3 miles
- Height: Not specified
- Time: Not specified
- Offers stunning viewpoints and is close to the car park.
These walks are suitable for beginners and provide a range of scenic views and moderate challenges. Always ensure you are properly equipped and prepared for the walk, including checking the weather and having the necessary gear.
Family-Friendly Options
For families with children, some easy and accessible walks include:
- Buttermere Lakeside Walk:
- Parking: Gatesgarth Car Park, Cockermouth
- Distance: Not specified
- Height: Not specified
- Time: Not specified
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A scenic and straightforward walk around Buttermere Lake.
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Grasmere:
- Parking: Broadgate Meadow Car Park
- Distance: Not specified
- Height: Not specified
- Time: Not specified
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A gentle walk from Grasmere to Alcock Tarn and back.
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Beatrix Potter’s Footprints:
- Parking: Near Sawrey, Hawkshead, Ambleside
- Distance: Not specified
- Height: Not specified
- Time: 1 hour
- A short and easy circular walk suitable for families.
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit the Lake District fells for beginners depend on personal preference regarding weather and crowd levels. Generally:
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful wildflowers.
- Summer (June to August): Warm weather, longer days, but more crowded.
- Autumn (September to November): Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and scenic foliage.
- Winter (December to February): Crisp weather, fewer crowds, but some paths may be more challenging.
Remember to always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before embarking on a walk.