5 Best Lake District Walks For Epic Views | Guide
Nov 25, 2023 By Sean William

National Park of Lake District in England’s northwest is a heaven for hikers. Commanding summits like Helvellyn and Blencathra attract adventurers seeking a demanding day amidst the hills with shimmering lakes and the valleys adorned with grazing sheep providing a stunning backdrop.

Undoubtedly, It is a picturesque place in England, It inspired renowned literary figures like Arthur Ransome, William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, and Alfred Wainwright. The region boasts an extensive network of tracks, ranging from gentle strolls along lakesides to more strenuous routes winding over rugged peaks and through mountain passes.

This comprehensive guide will show you the 5 best lake district walks for epic views to make your journey taste like heaven.Let’s get started!

List of 5 Best Lake District Walks For Epic Views

Here is the list of the 5 best lake district walks for epic views that you definitely shouldn't miss if you want to avoid any regrets.

Helvellyn Walk (Striding Edge)

Helvellyn and Striding Edge don’t need much introduction, being perhaps the most well-known pair in the Lake District. Standing at 950 meters, Helvellyn ranks as the third-highest peak in England, offering a spectacular view from its summit. While Helvellyn itself is a remarkable mountain, the awe-inspiring approach along Striding Edge elevates it to one of the finest walks in the Lake District.

Guide For Helvellyn Walk

Before embarking on the journey, ensure you're well-nourished and hydrated, as Striding Edge involves steep terrain and requires some scrambling. It's classified as a no. 1 scramble with moderate technical difficulty, demanding a good head for heights.

The ascent is rewarding, treating you to the beautiful views across the falls and the attractive Red Tarn. Helvellyn via Striding Edge stands as a truly classic walk, earning the title of the nation's favorite walk in an ITV special.

Route Distance

7.2 miles

Required Time

5.5 hours

Start and Finish Point

Glenridding Village

Tarn Hows Walk

Embark on a leisurely walk near the Tarn Hows and treat yourself to the beautiful scenes of grassy land, the pretty trees at Rose Castle, and the tranquil tarn itself, all set against the backdrop of Langdale Pikes and Coniston. The entire route offers stunning vistas, and with many grassy banks and benches on the sideway, there's ample space to relax and appreciate the surroundings.

Guide For Tarn Hows Walk

Tarn Hows circular walk is a particularly well-suited route for families, featuring a surfaced trail that is easy to walk or follow. You can easily get food items and restroom facilities at the parking area, enhancing the convenience of the experience. Given its popularity, especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to reach early.

While on your walk, keep an eye out for the possibility of spotting rare Herdwick sheep grazing near the tarn. If time permits, diverse from the main route to explore the attractive Tom Waterfalls.

Route Distance

2.5miles

Required Time

1.5 hours

Start and Finish Point

Tarn How’s Car Park

Blencathra Walk

The ascent of Blencathra earns its place on this list for being one of the most exhilarating ridge walks in the area. This trail involves navigating two challenging ridges: Sharp Edge and Halls-fell, with the latter being the most exposed no.1 scramble in the entire Lake District.

Guide For Blencathra Walk

Embarking on Sharp Edge demands nerves of steel and comfort with heights, making it a venture not to be taken lightly. Despite its formidable reputation, for seasoned fell walkers with prior scrambling experience, Sharp Edge presents a thrilling approach to conquering Blencathra.

For optimal enjoyment, I recommend tackling Blencathra on a clear day, as misty conditions can obscure the breathtaking views from Hallsfell. After all, you wouldn't want the exhilaration of the experience dampened by a sky filled with clouds.

Route Distance

5.2miles

Required Time

3 to 4 hours

Start and Finish Point

Scales Farm

Scafell Pike

No comprehensive guide of the best Lake walks would be complete without featuring Scafell Pike, England's highest peak standing at an impressive 980 meters, beckoning avid visitors to conquer its heights.

Guide For Scafell Pike

Various routes lead to the top of Scafell Pike, and among them, you should opt to highlight the path from Seathwaite, commonly known as the Route of Corridor. In fact, Wasdale Head remains the most famous route, likely due to its comfort and ease, the Corridor Route stands out for its exceptional beauty.

Moreover, This extensive trek unfolds a panorama of craggy peaks, mountain streams, and sweeping vistas towards Great Gable. On the return journey, a stream has carved a small gulf, making a sequence of picturesque waterfalls.

Route Distance

9.2 miles

Required Time

7 hours

Start and Finish Point

Seathwaite Farm

The Old Man Of Coniston

Coniston’s Old Man Walk stands as a quintessential Lake District trek, and its distinctive name has rendered it popular among regional visitors. Despite its name, the hike offers a unique blend of rugged mountain landscapes and compelling history.

Guide For The Old Man Of Coniston

Ascending to its top at 803 meters involves a steep yet captivating journey, revealing expansive views of the slate quarry and old copper mine below. From the summit, one can admire Goat’s Water tarns and Low Water, with the possibility, on a sunny day, of glimpsing as far as a beautiful Morecambe Bay.

Route Distance

4 miles

Required Time

2 to 3 hours

Start and Finish Point

Walna Scar Road

Conclusion

In the end, Explore the 5 best Lake District walks for epic views, from the iconic Helvellyn and Striding Edge to the serene Tarn Hows circular walk. The exhilarating Blencathra walk and the ascent of Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route offer diverse landscapes.

Moreover, The Old Man of Coniston Walk combines rugged mountains with captivating history. Each route promises epic views, making the Lake District a must-visit for hikers seeking unforgettable moments in England's picturesque wilderness.

Lace-up your boots and embark on a journey of natural beauty and thrilling challenges.