The Lake District is a stunning natural playground, offering a wealth of opportunities for families to explore the great outdoors. From gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, the Lake District Fells provide a range of family-friendly walks and activities that cater to children of all ages.
Family-Friendly Walks in the Lake District Fells
- Black Fell: A gentle introduction to fell-walking, with a trig point at the summit and stunning views of Windermere and Langdale.
- Holme Fell: A short, easy walk near Coniston, with a large cairn at the summit and beautiful views of the surrounding fells.
- Skiddaw: A more challenging but still accessible walk, with a well-laid path and spectacular views from the summit.
- Orrest Head: A relatively easy climb with stunning views of Lake Windermere, starting from Windermere train station.
- Gummer’s How: A great starter hike for families, with a free car park and rewarding views over Lake Windermere.
- Latrigg: A small fell with easy access and amazing views from the summit, suitable for families with kids.
Other Family-Friendly Activities in the Lake District
- Brockhole on Windermere: An adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the gardens with easy pushchair and wheelchair access.
- Boat Cruises: Enjoy boat rides on Windermere, Coniston, Derwentwater, and Ullswater, with covered boats and refreshments on board.
- Grizedale Forest: Explore art sculptures, walking trails, and cycle trails, with bike hire and picnic areas.
- Keswick Climbing Wall: An indoor and outdoor climbing center for kids, with free parking and a café.
- World of Beatrix Potter: Meet Peter Rabbit and friends in a fun, interactive experience.
Tips and Essentials for Families Exploring the Lake District Fells
- Clothing and Equipment: Ensure suitable footwear, clothing, and a map for each walk.
- Baby Carriers: Useful for younger children, especially on steeper or longer walks.
- Snacks and Patience: Bring plenty of snacks and be prepared for unexpected events like rain or tantrums.
- Toilets and Baby Change Facilities: Check the Lake District National Park website for toilet locations and baby change facilities.
Resources for Families Exploring the Lake District Fells
- Lake District National Park: For information on walks, activities, and facilities.
- Blaze Trails: A parent and baby walking community with free walks and tips for getting outdoors with little ones.
- North West for Kids: A guide to family walks and activities in the Lake District.
The Lake District Fells offer a wealth of opportunities for families to explore the great outdoors, with a range of family-friendly walks and activities that cater to children of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, the Lake District has something to suit every family’s needs.
References:
- Coppermines. (n.d.). First Time Fell Walks for Children and Families. Retrieved from https://www.coppermines.co.uk/first-time-fell-walks-for-children-and-families/
- Lake District National Park. (n.d.). Things to do for families and children. Retrieved from https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/family-children-activities
- Komoot. (n.d.). Fells and lakes for little explorers — Family walks in the Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.komoot.com/collection/1817341/fells-and-lakes-for-little-explorers-family-walks-in-the-lake-district
- Reddit. (2022). Family hike in Lake District. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/UKhiking/comments/s5ml6g/family_hike_in_lake_district/
- North West for Kids. (2024). 30 Family walks Lake District. Retrieved from https://northwestforkids.co.uk/family-walks-lake-district/.