The best routes and tips for Lake District walks from Windermere
There are tons of Lake District walks from Windermere to choose from. The hardest part is finding the one that fits best into what you want from your day.
Whether it’s an easy lakeside stroll, a fell walk with rewarding views, or a route straight from Windermere station, we’ve got you covered.
This guide takes you through the best Windermere walks, with suggestions for all abilities. All the walks here can be done without a car, on foot, from Windermere or Bowness.
Can you walk around Lake Windermere?
Not in its entirety, no. There aren’t any entirely uninterrupted walks around Lake Windermere. Parts of the shoreline are private, and some sections require walking on the road or taking diversions inland.
Our advice? Instead of attempting a full walk around Lake Windermere, opt for circular routes. These often include added areas of interest, such as lake views, woodland paths, and easy access to cafés, ferries, and pubs. The routes below are some of the best walks around Lake Windermere.
The best Lake District walks from Windermere
Rather than presenting a list of all the Windermere walks out there, we’ve assembled a list of walks around Windermere that suit a particular need. So you can find the right Windermere walk for you, at a glance.
Accessibility key
✔ = Accessible/mostly accessible route available
◐ = Partially accessible/sections suitable for some
✖ = Not accessible (uneven terrain, steep, or rough paths)
Best short walk from Windermere: Orrest Head Windermere walk
If you only do one short walk, make it the Orrest Head Windermere walk. Starting close to Windermere station, this route is ideal if you’re arriving by train or staying nearby without a car.
Distance: 1-3 miles (depending on route)
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: First-time visitors and easy panoramic views
Accessibility: ✔ (for accessibility, use this route)
The path climbs gradually through the picturesque Elleray Wood before climbing to High Hagg Woods and opening onto the summit. The Orrest Head walk is short but feels hugely rewarding. The spectacular panorama from Orrest Head viewpoint is one of the most famous in the Lake District.
Walkers’ tip: Go early morning or near sunset for quieter paths and dreamy light.
Best family walk: West Shore Walk from Bowness-on-Windermere to Wray Castle
Flatter trails around Windermere and the western shoreline make this one of the best options for families seeking a relaxed day out. The trail combines lakeside and woodland paths with Wray Castle and a shingle beach at the northern end of the route.
Distance: 2-6 miles (depending on route)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Families, picnics, and fun lakeside exploration
Accessibility: ◐
The uninterrupted lake views and wide, manageable trails on this route make it fun for children and enjoyable for grown-ups. There are plenty of spots to stop, explore, or picnic along the way. The ferry trip across the lake adds a bit of magic, too.
Walkers’ tip: Grab a treat along the way from Joey’s café (choose from Claife Viewing Station or Wray Castle).
Best circular walk: Windermere Circular Walk via School Knott
If you’re looking for Windermere circular walks that feel more varied than a lakeside route, School Knott is one of the best options close to town.
Distance: 6-7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: A scenic half-day walk with fell views
Accessibility: ✖
This route combines farmland, woodland tracks, and open viewpoints overlooking Windermere and the surrounding fells. It’s one of the best walks from Windermere if you want something slightly more adventurous without committing to a mountain hike.
Walkers’ tip: The paths can become muddy after heavy rain, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Best rainy day walk: Millerground Wood and Windermere shoreline walk
A great low-effort option when the weather isn’t playing ball, this walk is close to Windermere town with a mix of sheltered woodland and lakeside paths.
Distance: 1-3 miles (flexible)
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: When it’s damp out but you still need fresh air
Accessibility: ◐
Trees shelter Millerground Wood’s paths and open onto quieter stretches of Lake Windermere. This route is easily shortened or extended by adding Queen Adelaide’s Hill, depending on conditions, making it one of the most practical walks from Windermere in wet weather. You can start and end in Windermere town, or take the car to park at Rayrigg and make it a circular walk.
Walkers’ tip: The lakeshore section is especially atmospheric in drizzle or mist, but visibility can be low near the water’s edge in poor weather.
Planning tips for Windermere walks
A good map is helpful if you plan to combine routes or explore quieter sections of the Windermere area. While most routes above are well signposted and available to view for free on Komoot, phone signal can occasionally disappear on woodland trails and western shore paths.
Drop into Windermere Tourist Information Centre, where you can pick up a paper map of the local area – the pin above indicates how to get there.
Before setting off on a Windermere walk
- Wear waterproof footwear and pack foldable waterproof trousers and jacket – you never know in The Lakes!
- Get out early during summer weekends to avoid busy car parks if you do plan on driving to any start points
- Check ferry times if your route involves lake crossings – some are seasonal
- Carry extra layers even on warm days – you can cool down quickly if you decide to stop for picnics or breaks, and Lake District weather is notoriously changeable
Find the perfect cottage for exploring Lake District walks from Windermere
Windermere is one of the best bases in the Lake District for exploring numerous walks within easy reach of the town. Whether you’re planning short strolls or full days on the trails, everything is close by and easy to access.
For a cosy stay right in the heart of it all, explore Windermere holiday cottages with Coppermines or get in touch with our friendly team to help you find your perfect stay.
