The Lake District is a giant adventure playground, and there's no better way to explore it than on foot. But when you have little legs (and maybe even four-legged friends) in tow, finding the right walk is key. Forget daunting climbs and tricky terrain; we've picked out four fantastic, family-friendly walks that are big on views and fun, but easy on the effort. So, pack a picnic, pull on your boots, and get ready to make some memories!
4. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
This is a quintessential Lake District walk, following the beautiful River Brathay and offering stunning views of the Langdale Pikes. It's a fantastic choice for a riverside stroll.
1. Tarn Hows Circular Walk
A classic for a reason, Tarn Hows is arguably one of the most beautiful and accessible spots in the Lake District. The circular path is perfect for families with pushchairs and young children.- Location: Between Coniston and Hawkshead
- Difficulty: Very Easy / Accessible
- Why it's great for families:
- A well-maintained, level path of just under 2 miles, making it manageable for little walkers and accessible for pushchairs and mobility scooters.
- Stunning, picture-postcard views of the tarn and surrounding woodlands without a strenuous climb.
- Plenty of spots for a picnic and for kids to safely explore by the water's edge.
Tarn Hows, Lake District by Sally Payne, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
2. Grizedale Forest - Ridding Wood Trail
Grizedale Forest is an adventure hub, offering far more than just walking. The Ridding Wood Trail is a perfect introduction for families, combining easy walking with incredible outdoor art.- Location: Between Windermere and Coniston
- Difficulty: Easy
- Why it's great for families:
- A gentle, mile-long trail designed to be accessible for all, including pushchairs and wheelchairs.
- Discover amazing sculptures hidden amongst the trees – it turns a simple walk into a treasure hunt!
- The visitor centre has a café, adventure playground, and bike hire for a full day of fun.
3. Orrest Head
For a "first summit" experience without a major expedition, Orrest Head is unbeatable. It was the first fell Alfred Wainwright ever climbed, and the view that opens up at the top is truly breathtaking.- Location: Windermere
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Why it's great for families:
- A relatively short and straightforward climb that rewards you with one of the best panoramic views in the Lake District.
- The path is well-surfaced for much of the way, making it manageable for most abilities, and suitable for pushchairs!
- The sense of achievement for kids reaching the top is immense!
4. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
This is a quintessential Lake District walk, following the beautiful River Brathay and offering stunning views of the Langdale Pikes. It's a fantastic choice for a riverside stroll.
- Location: Elterwater, Langdale Valley
- Difficulty: Easy
- Why it's great for families:
- A flat, well-defined path that is largely pushchair-friendly.
- The route passes by the impressive Skelwith Force waterfall.
- There are excellent cafes at both ends of the walk for a well-deserved treat (Chesters by the River at Skelwith Bridge is a famous one!).
Milestone Society / Old Guide Stone by the B5343, Elterwater
Ready for your next family adventure? The Lake District is waiting. And after a day of exploring these beautiful trails, you'll need the perfect place to put your feet up. Check out our range of family-friendly holiday lets to find your perfect home away from home, or if you have a property in the Lake District you'd like to make available to holiday-goers, please reach out to our lake district holiday letting team.