Walking in the Lake District

With thousands of square miles to roam, walking is one of the most popular activities in the Lake District. Each year more than 15 million people visit the national park, with a large proportion being drawn to the area by the popular walking routes across the rolling hills.

Whether you’re preparing for a hike or searching for a simple stroll, we’ve come up with a list of nearby walks for all abilities.

Picture-perfect views

You don’t need to travel far or hike a mountain to enjoy some of the Lake District’s finest scenery. Here are some of our favourite spots that are worth a wander:

•The Vale of Lorton – known as one of the prettiest parts of the Northern Lakes, The Vale of Lorton is just a 20-minute drive from Anns Hill

•Watch Hill — starting from Cockermouth this gentle four-mile walk will take you to the top of the hill, where you can enjoy valley views

•Buttermere Valley – Pack a picnic and take your time sauntering around the beautiful valley. According to the National Trust, the Buttermere Lake offers one of the best round-the-lake walks in the Lake District.

Simple strolls

Step out the front door of Anns Hill and you’ll see the lush green mountains lingering in the distance, along with hundreds of paths that are waiting to be walked. Cockermouth really is the perfect base for exploring the Lake District.

A few nearby places that are suitable for all types of walker, include:

•Loweswater — Located in a quiet, wooded valley, the four-mile walk around Loweswater offers a gentle stroll via easy paths.

•Crummock Water — Just a half an hour’s drive from Anns Hill, Crummock Water is situated between Buttermere to the south and Loweswater to the north. Park in the National Trust car park and follow the path down to the lake’s shores for stunning views over the surrounding fells.

•Bassenthwaite Lake — the only official lake in the Lake District and the closest lake to Anns Hill. This National Nature Reserve provides a variety of routes for walkers of all abilities.

Hunger for hiking?

Feeling adventurous? The Lake District is home to some of the most challenging treks in the country. Don your hiking boots and get ready for a challenge because our top three recommended trails aren’t for the faint hearted…

•Scafell Pike — At 3,209ft, Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain. There are many paths so choose wisely, otherwise you could find yourself rambling along the most difficult route.

•Helvellyn – One of the most recognised walks in the Lake District. It’s famous for its twin ridges; Striding Edge and Swirral Edge and at 3,117ft, you certainly can’t miss it from Ann’s Hill. Good news is, it’s only a 30 minute drive away!

•Coniston Old Man — If you fancy exploring further afield, venture over to the Furness Fells, the home of the Old Man of Coniston, also known as the Coniston Old Man. There are a number of well-marked paths to the summit, which is popular with tourists and walkers.

For further information on walks in the Lake District visit the National Park’s website here