Shap Abbey
A lovely little hidden gem, Shap Abbey is a beautiful place to explore.
Brandlehow, Derwentwater
Brandlehow is an easy, low level walk, along the shores of Derwentwater in the Lake District. This mostly flat (but not pushchair friendly) circular walk is about 2.3 miles and can be started at any point on the route.
Ashness Bridge and Surprise View, Borrowdale
This 3 mile family walk takes in Ashness Bridge, Surprise View and Lodore Falls. With an optional visit to the delicious Mary Mount hotel and pub, on the shores of Derwentwater.
Wythburn, Thirlmere
This beautiful and quiet 1.75 mile walk takes you along the River Wyth Burn into a peaceful valley at the southern end of Thirlmere reservoir. It’s a fairly easy walk, with only a slight ascent. It can be boggy in parts, especially after periods of wet weather, so wear appropriate footwear! The kids will have fun clambering over the many different sized rocks along the way.
Raven Crag, Thirlmere
Situated at the northern end of Thirlmere reservoir, Raven Crag is a short, but steep Wainwright Fell. The route is less than 2 miles in total and is an out and back that gives stunning views over Thirlmere and the surrounding fells.
Fisherplace Gill, Thirlmere
Fisherplace Gill waterfalls, above Thirlmere are absolutely beautiful. And make for a perfect family walk starting from The King’s Head Hotel. The walk is less than 1.5 miles in total, out and back. The terrain is a bit rocky, and can be slippy when wet, but is lots of fun for the kids to scramble on! And as this is such a short walk, it’s perfect for little legs.
Lowther Castle, near Penrith
Lowther Castle, near Penrith is a fantastic family day out. Suitable for picnics, long walks round the extensive gardens and of course, possibly the country’s best children’s adventure playground: the Lost Castle.
Waterside House Campsite & Pooley Bridge
We spent a couple of nights in the luxurious bell tent at Waterside House Campsite, just south of Pooley Bridge. We used the campsite as our base for our adventures, heading up to Angletarn Pikes on the first day and to Brotherswater on the second. Not to mention swimming in Ullswater, right outside our tent and playing in the campsite playground with a magnificent backdrop!
Family Walks and Pubs in the Lake District 