Choosing Your Perfect Lakeside Stroll: Finding the Best Lake to Walk Around in the Lake District
Dreaming of a picturesque walk with stunning water views and rolling hills? The Lake District in England is world-renowned for its natural beauty, and its lakes are the undeniable stars of the show. But with so many breathtaking bodies of water, you might be wondering, "Which is the best lake to walk around in the Lake District?" The answer, of course, depends on what you're looking for. Are you after a gentle, accessible amble, a challenging hike with panoramic rewards, or perhaps a tranquil escape from the crowds? Let's dive into some of the top contenders and help you find your perfect lakeside path.
For the Iconic Views and Easy Access: Windermere
When most Americans picture the Lake District, they're likely envisioning scenery similar to that found around Windermere. As England's largest natural lake by surface area, Windermere offers a variety of walking opportunities, catering to all fitness levels.
Gentle Lakeside Ambles
- The eastern shore: This side offers a relatively flat and well-maintained path for much of its length. You can enjoy leisurely strolls with fantastic views across the water towards the fells. This is ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed experience.
- Bowness-on-Windermere promenade: A bustling hub, Bowness provides lovely, accessible paths along the waterfront, perfect for a short, scenic walk.
More Ambitious Options
- Orrest Head: While not directly around the lake's edge, a short, moderately steep climb from Windermere village offers unparalleled panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It's a classic introductory walk for a reason.
- Claife Heights: For a more involved walk, explore the western shore. Paths here can be a bit more rugged but reward you with quieter stretches and different perspectives.
Why Windermere? It's the most famous and accessible, with plenty of amenities like cafes, boat trips, and public transport links. It truly offers a quintessential Lake District experience.
For Dramatic Scenery and a Sense of Adventure: Derwentwater
Nestled in the heart of the northern Lake District, near the charming town of Keswick, Derwentwater is a jewel box of natural beauty. It’s renowned for its craggy islands and the dramatic fells that surround it, offering a more wild and adventurous feel than Windermere.
The Classic Circuit
- The full Derwentwater circuit: This approximately 10-mile loop is a highly recommended walk. It offers a diverse experience, with sections that hug the shoreline, wander through woodland, and even take you across causeways to islands (when water levels permit). You'll encounter beautiful viewpoints, quiet coves, and the option to break for refreshments at various points.
Island Hopping (Literally and Figuratively)
- Accessing the islands: While you can't walk *on* all the islands, you can take a boat trip to explore some of them, like Lingholm or St Herbert's Island, and then walk back to the mainland.
Why Derwentwater? If you crave dramatic mountain backdrops and the feeling of being truly immersed in nature, Derwentwater is your go-to. The variety of terrain and the ever-changing views are simply stunning.
For Tranquility and Wild Beauty: Buttermere
If you're seeking a more serene and less crowded experience, Buttermere is an exceptional choice. This stunning lake is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the National Park, characterized by its dramatic mountain setting and relative peace.
The Buttermere Circuit
- The Buttermere Lake path: A relatively flat and straightforward walk of about 4.5 miles encircles the entire lake. It's incredibly rewarding, with constantly evolving views of the surrounding fells, including the iconic Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks.
- The tunnel: One unique feature of the Buttermere walk is a short, natural tunnel through the rockface, adding a touch of adventure to the stroll.
Why Buttermere? This lake offers a truly magical and peaceful walking experience. It’s less developed than Windermere, allowing you to feel a deeper connection with the raw beauty of the fells and the water.
For a Quicker, Yet Rewarding Stroll: Tarn Hows
While not a traditional "lake" in the same sense as the others, Tarn Hows is an absolute must-visit for its sheer visual appeal and accessibility. It’s a man-made tarn (a small mountain lake) that provides breathtaking scenery without requiring a strenuous hike.
The Tarn Hows Loop
- The accessible path: A well-maintained, surfaced path of about 1.5 miles circles Tarn Hows. It's largely flat and is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, making it incredibly inclusive.
- Spectacular views: Despite its small size, Tarn Hows offers magnificent views of the surrounding fells, including the Langdale Pikes and Coniston Old Man.
Why Tarn Hows? If you have limited time or mobility but still want to experience some of the most iconic Lake District views, Tarn Hows is your perfect destination. It's a short walk with a huge scenic payoff.
Other Notable Mentions:
- Ullswater: The second-largest lake, offering opportunities for longer walks, including sections of the Ullswater Way, and the chance to take a heritage steamer.
- Grasmere: Famous for its association with the poet William Wordsworth, offering gentle lakeside paths and charming village walks.
- Coniston Water: Known for its association with Donald Campbell's water speed record attempts and the stunning views from the western shore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I get to these lakes for walks?
Most of the major lakes are accessible by car, with parking available at various points. For Windermere, Bowness, and Ambleside, public transport options like buses are plentiful. Some more remote lakes like Buttermere can be reached by bus, but schedules might be less frequent. Consider the Stagecoach bus service which operates across the Lake District.
Why are some lake walks easier than others?
The terrain surrounding each lake varies significantly. Lakes in valleys with gentler slopes, like Windermere or Buttermere, often have more accessible, flatter paths. Lakes surrounded by steeper, more rugged fells, such as Derwentwater, might require more climbing and uneven ground, leading to more challenging walks.
Which lake is best for avoiding crowds?
While Windermere is the most popular and thus busiest, lakes like Buttermere or Crummock Water (which is adjacent to Buttermere) tend to be much quieter, especially outside of peak season or during weekdays. Tarn Hows can get busy due to its accessibility, but the walk itself is short.
What should I wear and bring for a lake walk?
The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly. It's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots. Layers of clothing are essential, including a waterproof and windproof jacket. Don't forget water, snacks, a map, and a compass (or a reliable GPS app), even for seemingly simple walks. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also good to have.
