Walking is a very accessible recreation for those visiting the Lake District and one of the main reasons for its many visitors. However, you do not need to scale the highest fells in order to enjoy the beauty and vistas that the Lake District can provide. There are many low-level walks, around the lakes, which provide stunning scenery and opportunity to view the wide diversity of wildlife. Buttermere, Loweswater and Derwent Water provide short, low-level walks, whilst the valley bottoms themselves again offer a wealth of walks, for example Rosthwaite in Borrowdale, the Newlands Valley, Little Langdale and Wasdale.

If you feel more adventurous, then family outing over Catbells by Derwent Water offers fantastic views of the surrounding fells, Derwent Water and Keswick. Alternatively, a  walk across Loughrigg Fell that lies between Grasmere and Ambleside, places you in one of the most idyllic places of the Lake District. Many of the lower lying and less popular fells provide for unrivalled peacefulness and tranquility. Amongst these you may not see another soul all day. Try the fells on the north side of Skiddaw, or the fells around Shap.

For those looking for a challenge, there are many opportunities to test yourselves on the higher fells. The Lake District is home to Englands highest point – Scafell Pike at 978m (3209ft). It is popular to combine several of the higher summits and create ‘rounds’ – circular walks that are both demanding and extremely rewarding. Kentmere Round and Fairfield Horseshoe are our particular favourites.

For all those braving the elements, it is essential to be properly equipped, to match your capabilities with your objectives and understand that conditions on the fells can change abruptly. Leave details of your route and time of return, and always follow the Country Code.

The Lake District Walker - Guided fell walks in the English Lake District