Winter Walks in the Lake District

The Lake District is 2,362 square kilometres of natural bliss. Experience the drama of snow-capped mountains, icicle dripping waterfalls and frozen tarns. Enjoy the warmth of rural communities, a traditional countryside pub with good food, beer and an open fire.

Here we’ve picked some of our favourite walks so you can plan your winter break to the Lake District.

Easdale Tarn, Grasmere

One of the Lake District’s more famous tarns, the riverside walk up to the tarn is as good as the tarn itself. You pass the white cascades of Sour Milk falls, which are spectacular on a winter’s day and there are lots of places to stop and enjoy the view. It is a classic Lake District rocky path underfoot at approximately 5 miles, all the family will enjoy this walk that the Wordsworth family loved.

Hodge Close Walk, Little Langdale

This circular, low-level walk will provide you with stunning views of the Langdale Pikes and surrounding fells, along with an insight into the historical industrial past of the area. You will pass Atkinson Coppice, a network of old slate quarries which sprawl across the side of the fell. Pass over Slater Bridge, a spectacular example of a slate-constructed packhorse bridge built between 1650 and 1750. This walk takes you past the Three Shires Inn, a typical Lakeland Inn providing a warm welcome and a selection of local ales.

Aira Force and Gowbarrow Trail, Penrith

Experience Aira Force at its best, rainy days offer the chance to see the falls in full force, as rainwater runs from the fells into Aira Beck. Head out on a sunny morning and make sure to look out for rainbows that appear when the conditions are just right. Pass through the woodland then emerge from the confines of the gorge to enjoy expansive views over Ullswater from the summit of Gowbarrow.