13 Tips for Walking in the Lake District (2023 Guide)

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Need some tips for walking in the Lake District? This post outlines some of the best tips for walking in the Lake District, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

If you’re visiting the Lake District for the first time, you might be wondering what the walks are going to be like. Are the walks in the Lake District hard? Do I need hiking boots for the Lake District? Where are the most beautiful walks in the Lake District?

In the following post, I outline some tips for walking in the Lake District. From what to wear, when to hike, what to see and what you need, you’ll leave feeling to walk in the Lake District!

Other Lake District posts:

• Best Breakfast in the Lake District: 10 Best Cafes
• Loughrigg Fell From Ambleside: Complete Beginner Guide
• 12 Easy Walks in the Lake District With AMAZING Views!
• Helm Crag Walk From Grasmere – Everything You Need to Know
• Blea Tarn Walk: What to Expect (Guide)

Tips for walking in the Lake District: A Summary

The Lake District is one of the most loved destinations in the UK. It is located in the north of England, in the county of Cumbria. Whilst visiting the Lake District, many tourists or visitors like to hike or walk on some of the best countryside trails the UK has to offer.

So what do you need to know before you start hiking in the Lake District? If you’re a new hiker and haven’t got much experience on the mountains, the Lake District is a great place to start. There are plenty of easy walks to choose from, as well as tougher hikes such as Scafell Pike and Helvellyn.

This post aims to prepare you for your first or next hike in the Lake District. Hopefully, after reading these walking tips, you’ll feel a lot more confident to tackle some of the best trails in the country than you did before!

Where to stay in the Lake District

If you’re only staying in the Lake District for a few nights, I recommend staying in Ambleside. Ambleside is known as the ‘heart of the Lake District’, and is one of my personal favourite areas, as it’s within walking distance of Lake Windermere.

If you’re only visiting the Lake District briefly, it’s an easy way to see some of the quintessential grey slate buildings, traditional pubs, and modern Lake District restaurants. Ambleside is also only a ten-minute drive from the Helm Crag walk starting point.

• If you’re a solo traveller in Ambleside, I recommend staying in the YHA Hostel. It’s a short distance from the centre of Ambleside, and you’ll be able to meet other solo backpackers. ➡ BOOK THIS HOSTEL NOW!

• Want a cute and cosy cottage in Ambleside? Our favourite is Grayling Cottage. It’s just a one-minute walk from Ambleside town centre and is beautifully decorated. ➡ BOOK THIS COTTAGE NOW!

• For a luxurious one-night stay in Ambleside, check out The Ambleside Inn. It’s an 18th-century hotel which will give you a true ‘English countryside’ experience. ➡ BOOK THIS HOTEL NOW!

Getting around the Lake District

If you can, take a car to get around the Lake District. If you only have one day, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport. Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! ➡ LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

However, if you haven’t got access to a car, exploring the Lake District can still be done! The Lake District has amazing public transport (a lot better than some of the rest of the country), and you can whizz around on buses and boats. For more information about travelling around the Lake District without a car, you can check out my guide here.

➡ Need to hire a car in the Lake District? We rent our cars in the UK from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗 LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

How to get to the Lake District

🇬🇧 IF YOU’RE ALREADY IN THE UK

You can travel to the Lake District from most places in the UK. The first stage would be travelling to a major city (London, Manchester, Carlisle, Glasgow etc) and then boarding a connecting train or two from there. Here are some of the easiest ways to get to the Lake District without a car by train:

• London > Oxenholme (direct)
• Manchester > Windermere (direct)
• Carlisle > Oxenholme (direct)

If you are travelling to the Lake District by train, be sure to book your tickets in advance to get the cheapest prices. From Oxenholme or Windermere, you can either board a bus to your accommodation or jump in a taxi. There are taxi ranks outside the main train stations in the Lake District.

✈️ TRAVELLING INTERNATIONALLY TO THE LAKE DISTRICT

If you’re travelling to the UK for the Lake District, you will need to fly into Manchester Airport. From there, you can board a train to Oxenholme to reach the Lake District. The train takes roughly 1.5 hours and will need to be pre-booked in advance.

Tips for walking in the Lake District

1. Always carry a map

If you are doing any kind of walking or hiking in the Lake District, you will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer maps. Most of the hikes are not signposted and Google Maps is not accurate on mountain trails. The OS Explorer maps cover the whole of the Lake District but are broken down into different areas. Make sure you buy the right map for the area you would like to hike in.

➡ Buy your Lake District Ordnance Survey OS Explorer maps now!

2. Look at the route and trail online beforehand

One thing I recommend before going on any hike or walk in the Lake District is to look at the route beforehand. Are there any trails to avoid? Is the walk in a straight line, or will you need to change direction and take turns?

If you’re afraid of heights (like me!) you may want to avoid sheer edges or drops. I usually watch some Youtube videos or read other blogs to check if the route is ok for me to do.

3. Pack a hiking day bag

If you’re doing a long walk in the Lake District, you’ll need to pack a day bag. In your day bag, be sure to have:

• Food or snacks
• Water filter bottle
• First aid kit
• Portable charger
• An extra layer of clothing / spare socks
• Plasters (for any unwanted blisters)
• Your map
• A torch (unless your phone is fully charged with a portable ready)
• Light waterproof rain jacket

Need a hiking day bag? This is my favourite. It isn’t too heavy, but it’s big enough to hold everything you need.

4. Wear hiking boots

One of the most commonly asked questions is ‘do you need hiking boots for the Lake District?’ Well, this depends!

It depends on what walks you are going to do. If you are sticking to walks around lakes, or in the towns and shorter hikes to waterfalls, you can get away with just having trainers.

But if you are doing long walks, or hiking to viewpoints like Helm Crag, Loughrigg Fell and Scafell Pike, you need hiking boots.

I’d highly recommend buying these hiking boots if you’re a woman walking in the Lake District. They’re comfy, long-lasting and waterproof. I’ve had mine for a long time, and still rely on them!

5. Take an extra layer of clothing

This is especially important if you are hiking to high summits or walking during the winter. As the altitude increases on mountains in the Lake District, temperatures drop. This means even if it’s a hot day on ground level, it may not be at the top of the mountain!

Take a thin extra layer in your day bag to wrap up when it gets colder. You’ll thank me when you’re shivering at the top!

I recommend a base or extra layer made of this material. It’s comfy, warm and easy to pack in your day bag.

6. Pack a first-aid kit

Hopefully, you won’t need to use it, but having a first aid kit is one of the best tips for walking in the Lake District. Mainly, for plasters, as blisters are the worst if you’re on a long hike or walk.

But things could get a little worse, and you might need to use antiseptic wipes or take some painkillers. Stock up your first aid kit before leaving for your hike.

Need a first aid kit? I recommend this pre-made one which has the basics in, ready to go.

7. Take a water filter bottle

With a water filter bottle, you can hydrate using water from anywhere. A puddle, a lake, a river – it essentially filters any dirty water so you are able to drink it. It’s great on long hikes when you don’t want to lug around litres of water!

Need a water filter bottle? I recommend this one, as it’s not too heavy and it’s cheap!

8. Plan for spontaneity (and for things to go wrong)

Things will go wrong on your trip to the Lake District. You may make a wrong turn, or someone in your group may injure themselves. It might take an hour to find a car park, or you find the car park you really need is full. Things will go wrong, so plan for spontaneity.

Just prepare for it. Add an extra hour to your hike for a longer lunch break. Or leave an hour earlier to prepare for mistakes and spontaneity! Sometimes the worst travel fails make for the funniest travel stories.

9. Check the weather beforehand

Check the weather beforehand. If it’s going to rain, prepare for it! If there are going to be thunderstorms, you may not want to climb harder treks such as Scafell Pike or Helvellyn. Plan for this, and give yourself time to change your itinerary.

Do an easier walk instead (or just spend a day in the pub). Always avoid high ground in windy, severe rain and thunderous conditions. And remember, it’s ok to turn back on a hike if things look dangerous.

Looking for the best walks from Ambleside? Check out my post: BEST Walks from Ambleside, Lake District.

10. Don’t stray too far from the trail

This can be tempting, but it’s important to stay on the trail when doing some of the longer, higher walks in the Lake District. But this can lead to you becoming lost, and spending hours trying to find your car park or accommodation after.

If you’re tempted to stray off the beaten track for epic or quieter views, be careful and take note of your route. Make sure you can find a way back to the main trail before nightfall.

If you’re hiking in the afternoon or evening, I recommend this head torch for extra light.

11. Always tell somewhere where you are, especially if you’re hiking solo

If you’ve read any other posts on my blog, you’ll know I’m a big fan of solo travelling, and even recommend visiting the Lake District solo. But, there are dangers with this when hiking solo. It is so important that you let someone know exactly where you are, where you’ve parked and what you’re doing if you’re hiking in the Lake District.

You won’t get much (or any) signal on most walks in the Lake District, so give a friend or family member an estimated time that you should be arriving back. If you can, join a hiking group or another solo traveller from your hostel.

12. Charge your tech and carry a portable charger

Even if you’ve got a paper map, it’s good to have your phone on you in case of emergencies. Whenever I’m backpacking, I always carry a portable charger, and so does my boyfriend Tom. It just brings a bit more peace of mind!

Note: The emergency number in the UK is 999. If you find yourself in an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for “Police – Mountain Rescue”.

If you need a portable charger, I recommend this one. We’ve taken it on 7-day road trips before, and haven’t needed to charge it once. I highly recommend it!

13. Know your limits!

Last, but not least, know your limits. Be realistic. Set challenges, but don’t push yourself too far. If you have an injury, you shouldn’t be scrambling to the summit of Scafell Pike. This could result in calling mountain rescues and putting other people at risk.

Make sure your fitness levels suit the walk you are about to do, and if you’re scared of heights, check the trail beforehand. Take rest breaks. Admire the views. Allow yourself to go back if the weather turns. There is no shame in this.

There are so many easy (yet still beautiful) walks in the Lake District, which you can begin with. Know your limits!

Packing list for walking in the Lake District

Even for the longer hikes in the Lake District, there isn’t much you need to bring on a walk. As long as you have good, sturdy hiking boots, and stick to the main trails, you won’t necessarily need hiking sticks or any climbing-related equipment.

If you’re visiting the Lake District for the first time, I recommend packing:

• A lightweight waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots 
• An umbrella
• A waterproof day bag
• A waterproof phone case 
• A portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro for waterproof camera footage
• A waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A Dry Robe, as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even when it’s raining)
• As well as using bug spray, we have midge-repellent wristbands.

Tips for walking in the Lake District: FAQs

1) Is the Lake District good for walking?

Yes! The Lake District is one of the best places in the UK for walking and hiking. People travel from all over the world to visit this part of England for long distances and high-elevation hikes.

There are walks in the Lake District for everyone. Whether you want to hike the highest summit in England, or stick to sea level and do some of the pretty circular walks, there are walks for everyone in the Lake District.

Check out my guide: Easy Walks in the Lake District (That Still Have Incredible Views) for more info!

2) Do you need hiking boots for the Lake District?

If you’re someone who enjoys long, challenging walks at a high altitude, you’re going to need hiking boots for the Lake District. You’ll be walking on different kinds of terrains, as well as in different kinds of weather (and the Lake District experiences a lot of rain).

However, if you prefer to stick to easier, flat walks, you won’t necessarily need hiking boots. I recently visited the Lake District with my family, and they preferred to wear regular running trainers (but I will emphasise, they didn’t do any difficult hikes at any higher altitudes).

Check out some of the best hiking boots for the Lake District here.

3) How do you prepare for the Lake District?

If you’re planning your first trip to the Lake District, I recommend:

• Looking through blogs (like this one!) to plan your route and the best things to do.
• Buying all the appropriate equipment and clothes.
• Booking your accommodation.
• Hiring a car from this rental company.
• Building up your fitness if you’re going to do longer walks.
• Watching Youtube videos to ramp up excitement for your upcoming trip to the Lake District!

4) Where should I go first in the Lake District?

If you are staying in the Lake District for the first time, I recommend staying in Ambleside. Ambleside is the most popular village to stay in the Lake District. Personally, it’s one of my favourite places in the entire national park!

It’s known as the ‘heart of the Lake District’, and is located north of the Lake District’s largest lake – Lake Windermere.

Ambleside is an ideal place to stay in the Lake District. It’s well-connected, has lots of traditional cottages, and is a great base if you’re looking to hike and explore.

5) Is the Lake District worth visiting?

Yes! The Lake District is worth visiting if you are travelling to the UK. It’s a beautiful national park in England and offers some of the most incredible countryside views in the whole of the United Kingdom. As someone who lives in London, we make sure to visit the Lake District at least once a year!

6) What should I wear for fell walking in the Lake District?

If you are fell walking in the Lake District, you need to wear sturdy hiking boots and lots of layers. Climates at higher altitudes can change quickly, so you must be prepared and have enough clothing to stay warm.

7) What is the most beautiful part of the Lake District?

There are many locations in the Lake District that can be considered as beautiful. Some of the most beautiful villages in the Lake District include Ambleside, Grasmere and Windermere. For incredible views, hike either Helm Crag, Loughrigg Fell or Helvellyn. For a peaceful walk with incredible views, check out Blea Tarn or Tarn Hows.

There are a number of beautiful hikes in the Lake District, but Latrigg is one of the most beautiful easy hikes. Just a short 15-minute walk from the car park, the Latrigg viewpoint has some of the most beautiful views in the entire National Park.

8) What is the best walk in the Lake District?

This depends on what it is you’re looking for from a walk. However, if you want one of the best short walks with an epic view, I recommend Latrigg. It’s a short 15-minute walk from the car park and it’s a walk most can do with ease. Latrigg has some of the best views in the entire national park, with minimal effort needed!

9) What is the best time to visit Lake District?

You can visit the Lake District 365 days a year; as it’s an ‘any kind of weather’ destination in the UK. However, if you want the cheapest accommodation prices, visit in the shoulder season (autumn and spring). During the winter months (November – February), you can expect layers of snow to be covering the trails and paths.

Summer months in the UK (June – August) are always the most expensive months to visit the Lake District, as well as being the busiest. But of course, it’s when you’ll get the best weather, with dry, hot and sunny days.

10) Do I need a car to visit the Lake District? 

If you’re visiting the Lake District and are short on time, I recommend hiring a car. However, it is possible to get around the Lake District using public transport.

If you’re looking to hire a car in the Lake District, we rent our cars from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡ You can check out the prices for car hire in the UK now!

11) What tours should I do in the Lake District? 

Looking to book a tour in the Lake District? Tours are one of the best ways to see the hidden gems of the country you are visiting. If you’re travelling during peak season, I highly recommend pre-booking your tours to ensure you don’t miss out!

When travelling, we use this company to book our tours. Tours include skip-the-line tickets to the world’s most iconic attractions, walking tours by top local experts, immersive food and beverage tours, cooking and craft classes, bucket list experiences, and niche offerings you won’t find anywhere else! 

If you’re visiting for the first time, the tours I recommend doing are:

• Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour: ➡ MORE INFORMATION + BOOKINGS
• William Wordsworth and Dove Cottage Half-Day Tour: ➡ MORE INFORMATION + BOOKINGS
• Beatrix Potter Tour: ➡ MORE INFORMATION + BOOKINGS

➡ You can check out available tours in the Lake District with prices here!

12) Do I need a SIM card to visit the Lake District? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth downloading an eSIM on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are eSIMs available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡ You can check out the prices and packages for eSIMs here!

13) Can I solo travel in the Lake District?

Yes, you can solo travel in the Lake District. If you are solo travelling and want to meet other people, I recommend staying in hostels to meet like-minded travellers. Or, if you’d like to explore the lakes by yourself, stay in a location like Ambleside so you are close to all of the main sites and hikes. Check out my full guide on solo travel in the Lake District here.

Tips for Walking in the Lake District: In A Nutshell

So, there you have it! The best tips for walking in the Lake District. When you’re planning a trip to the Lake District, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at first-time backpackers on a budget. I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend (read more here!), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Lake District content, all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

Jennie x

Other posts you might like:

• Best Pubs in Ambleside: The Lake District (Essential Guide)
• Lake District Itinerary 1 Day Plan: The BEST Day Trip!
• 3 Days in the Lake District: Everything You NEED To Do
• Helm Crag Walk From Grasmere – Everything You Need to Know

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