Best Walks in the Lake District
Walkers, hikers and ramblers alike will be captivated by the breathtaking fells, rolling hills and awe-inspiring scenery that define the Lake District. Renowned for its diverse range of walking routes, from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful wander through ancient woodlands or a more adventurous trek across rugged peaks, there’s something here for every level of ability and interest.
To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve selected some of the finest walking trails situated near the 4 star Lake District Castle Inn Hotel in Bassenthwaite.
Our Favourite Walks Near the Hotel
Seasonal Highlights & Tips
Winter is a magical time to explore the Lake District, with crisp air, quieter paths, and, on the right day, snow-tipped fells. However, shorter daylight hours and icy conditions mean a bit of extra preparation is essential. Follow these tips to enjoy safe and memorable winter walks:
• Dress in warm, breathable layers and bring waterproofs
• Check the weather forecast and be aware of shorter daylight hours
• Stick to well-marked, lower-level routes in icy or poor conditions
• Wear sturdy, grippy footwear – paths can be muddy or slippery
• Bring a charged phone, water, snacks and a small torch if you’re out late
• If walking with children or dogs, choose shorter, safer valley or lakeside routes
Pro Tip: Staying at the Castle Inn Hotel in Bassenthwaite puts you close to some of the best winter walking routes in the Lake District, making it easy to explore safely while enjoying the season’s stunning scenery.
Explore More Walking Trails Below
| Walk Name | Trail Time | Drive Time | Difficulty | Vibe / Category | Castle Inn Pro-Tip |
| Skiddaw | 5–6 Hrs | 14 Mins | Hard | Peak Bagger | Our top choice for an all-day mountain challenge. |
| Cockermouth River | 1–1.5 Hrs | 15 Mins | Easy | Heritage Walk | Pair this with a visit to Wordsworth House. |
| Latrigg | 1.5–2 Hrs | 15 Mins | Easy/Mod | Viewpoint | The best “effort-to-reward” ratio in the Lakes. |
| Whinlatter Forest | 1–4 Hrs | 17 Mins | Moderate | Forest Adventure | Multiple trails; check the map at the Visitor Centre. |
| Friars Crag | 45 Mins | 17 Mins | Easy | Romantic | Iconic views; great for a sunset walk. |
| Lingholm Garden | 1–2 Hrs | 18 Mins | Easy | Boutique Exp. | Don’t miss the Beatrix Potter outdoor gallery. |
| Catbells | 2–3 Hrs | 27 Mins | Moderate | Iconic Ridge | Try the Llama trek for a truly unique memory. |
| Fitz Park | 45 Mins | 14 Mins | Easy | Park & Play | Best for kids with the BMX track and playground. |
Accessible 'Miles Without Stiles' Walks
At the Castle Inn Hotel, we believe the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District should be accessible to everyone. If you have limited mobility, are exploring with a pushchair, or simply prefer smooth, gentle paths with no steep inclines or stiles to climb over, the National Park’s ‘Miles Without Stiles’ network is perfect for you.
The Lake District National Park has recently expanded this network to include brand-new, fully accessible routes. We are delighted that several of these upgraded trails, including beautiful routes at Whinlatter Forest and Thirlmere, are located just a short drive from our front doors.
Here are our top recommendations for accessible walks nearby:
Longer Walking Routes
The Cumbria Way
5 Day Long Distance Walk
The Cumbria Way is a linear 112-kilometre (71-mile) long-distance footpath in Cumbria, England. Much of the route lies inside the boundaries of the Lake District National Park. Linking the two historic Cumbrian towns of Ulverston and Carlisle and passes through the towns of Coniston and Keswick. The route is a primarily low-level route, however there are a few high-level exposed sections.
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*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.