6 Top Autumn Walks in the Lake District
Family & Dog Friendly Adventures
Hi there! I’m Debbie, and I’ve had the pleasure of managing the Lake District Castle Inn since April 2024. One of the most common questions I get from our wonderful guests is, “Where are the best local walks?”
Having lived in Cumbria since 2001, I’ve spent many years exploring this stunning region, especially after I caught the “Wainwright” walking bug in 2017. With two adventurous Border Collies, a daughter who loved joining in, and a husband who needed the promise of good food at the end, I had to get creative with routes that suited everyone!
So, here are six of my favourite easy-to-moderate walks, perfect for families and dogs, with a few local tips thrown in. Whether you’re after waterfalls, panoramic views, peaceful woodland, or a good pub meal at the end, there’s something here for you.
Catbells – A Classic with a Twist
Catbells is a must-do Lake District walk, but finding parking can be tricky if you're not a local. My tip? Head to Little Town, where a friendly local farmer offers all-day parking for £5 in one of his fields (cash only, via honesty box). Route Highlights: From the car park, head through the gate opposite the road and follow the path toward a small waterfall. Cross the stream, scramble a short rocky section, and then pick from two paths to the summit. For a circular route, continue over the summit and loop back via the lower path around the fell. Refuel: Pop into The Swinside Inn, a cosy, dog and family friendly pub with great food and a lovely beer garden.
Pooley Bridge & Ullswater – Gentle Strolls & Great Pubs
When we need a relaxing day, my husband and I head to Pooley Bridge, combining a riverside walk with a visit to nearby Aira Force. It’s our go-to “reset” day. Parking Tip: Behind the Sun Inn, a local field offers all-day parking for just £4 (cash or card). Walk Options: Head out back of the Sun Inn, along the river, through farmland (dogs on leads, please!). Cross the suspension bridge and loop back along the opposite bank. Take the lakeside trail before the main bridge, ideal for a short scenic walk. Eat & Drink: Sun Inn (Sunday Roast) or Pooley Bridge Inn (try the Lamb Henry!).
Aira Force – Waterfalls & Woodland Magic
This National Trust site is a hit with families. Aira Force features woodland trails, cascading waterfalls, and even a lively red squirrel population. Tips: Park in the lower National Trust car park (toilets & café on site). The trail leads to the top of the falls, return via the opposite side of the river. For a challenge, continue to Gowbarrow Fell for breathtaking views. Finish: Grab a scone with jam and cream at the café, or take a dip in Ullswater.
Seatoller Circular Walk – Peaceful & Picturesque
Start from the National Trust car park in Stonethwaite (near Glaramara Hotel) and enjoy woodland paths, riverside spots, and light scrambling. Picnic Spot: Near the YHA campsite, plenty of boulders for a peaceful riverside lunch. • End with a Treat: Yew Tree Pub, a charming, dog-friendly spot with riverside garden and excellent food. Extra Tip: Drive back via Honister Pass for jaw-dropping views!
Bobbin Mill, Caldbeck – Historic & Tranquil
Perfect for a quieter day out, this walk combines woodland trails, historic ruins, and a meander through the quaint village of Caldbeck. Parking: Free village car park or nearby laybys. Route Highlights: Explore the ruins of the old Bobbin Mill. For a longer walk, follow the river path to a concrete bridge and return via the road. Food & Drink: Muddy Duck Café (dogs welcome in the garden) or Oddfellows Arms.
Sale Fell – Short Climb, Big Views
Ideal for a shorter walk with panoramic views over Bassenthwaite Lake, Skiddaw, and Whinlatter. Route Advice: Plenty of roadside parking available. Steep climb is short; bench partway up for a breather. For a gentler ascent, take the left-hand path near the bench. Post-Walk Picks: Bassenthwaite Lake Station (quirky train café) or The Pheasant Inn (dog-friendly outside).
Bonus: Surprise View – Sunset with Zero Effort
Drive up to Ashness Bridge, then a short walk to Surprise View—one of the most spectacular vantage points in the Lakes, especially at sunset. Perfect for a no-fuss scenic stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly walks in the Lake District?
Top family-friendly walks include Catbells, Pooley Bridge & Ullswater, Aira Force, Seatoller Circular Walk, Bobbin Mill, and Sale Fell—easy-to-moderate routes with scenic views, waterfalls, and nearby pubs.
Are these walks dog-friendly?
Absolutely! All six walks welcome dogs, and many nearby pubs and cafés allow dogs in outdoor areas.
Where can I park for these walks?
Catbells: Little Town (£5, honesty box)
Pooley Bridge: Behind Sun Inn (£4)
Aira Force: National Trust lower car park
Seatoller Circular Walk: Stonethwaite car park
Bobbin Mill: Caldbeck village car park
Sale Fell: Roadside parking
Which walks are suitable for short legs or limited time?
Sale Fell offers a short but scenic climb, while Surprise View provides stunning views with almost no walking.
Are there quieter, lesser-known walks in the Lake District?
Yes! Seatoller Circular Walk and Bobbin Mill in Caldbeck are peaceful, off-the-beaten-path routes with woodland trails, historic ruins, and picnic spots.
Where can I eat or drink after these walks?
Catbells: The Swinside Inn
Pooley Bridge: Sun Inn, Pooley Bridge Inn
Aira Force: National Trust café
Seatoller: Yew Tree Pub
Bobbin Mill: Muddy Duck Café, Oddfellows Arms
Sale Fell: Bassenthwaite Lake Station, The Pheasant Inn
Why Stay With Us
*Copyright – Images used with permission from Cumbria Tourism*
Walking can be dangerous and all walkers must take personal responsibility for their own safety. You should always carry a backup means of navigation and not rely on a single phone, app or map.