7 Night Northern Lake District Guided Walking Holiday

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 800 feet (260m)

In summary: This walk takes us into the Newlands valley, a sparsely populated farming area surrounded by high fells. We go through Portinscale and the outskirts of Braithwaite before walking along the bottom of Barrow, arriving at Ghyll Bank. We then pick up part of the Cumbria Way to head back to the house.

Highlight: Picturesque Newlands valley, is a lovely quieter area which once inspired William Wordsworth. 

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km) 

Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)  

In summary: Cross the Newlands Valley to climb the neighbouring fells of Outerside and Barrow in the Coledale Valley.

Highlight: The grassy slopes of Outerside and Barrow are two delightful lower fells with great views over Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater.

Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)

Ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)

In summary: We'll leave from the house for this circular walk, reaching the summit of Causey Pike and Outerside before making our way back.

Highlight: Spectacular views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)

In summary: This walk takes us across flat fields towards the imposing mass of Skiddaw. From the hamlet of Applethwaite we start our gentle climb to the summit of Latrigg. We descend into the market town of Keswick before a level walk across fields and rivers back to the country house.

Highlight: Latrigg packs a real punch for a smaller fell with superb views across Keswick and Derwentwater towards Borrowdale.

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 2,300 feet (700m)

In summary: This walk ascends via the impressive 'Edge' of Ullock Pike with a short traverse of Longside Edge to the summit of Carl Side. A steep descent takes us through Millbeck and Applethwaite as we return to the house. 

Highlight: Fantastic views over Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater and all the surrounding fells. 

Distance: 11½ miles (19km)

Ascent: 3,150 feet (960m) 

In summary: Ascend to the top of Skiddaw via Ullock Pike and Longside Edge, with views over Bassenthwaite Lake. Our descent takes us via the remote Skiddaw House and along the Cumbria Way back to Keswick.

Highlight: Hopefully we will be rewarded with fantastic views in every direction from the lofty summit of Skiddaw.

Distance: 6 miles (110km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

In summary:  Starting at the village of Thornthwaite, we follow Comb Beck through Whinlatter Forest as it snakes past old mines on its way toward the visitor centre. Crossing to the southern side of the Forest we follow forest tracks enjoying wonderful views of Bassenthwaite as we steadily descend to the village of Braithwaite, and onwards across fields and along quiet lanes to Derwent Bank.   

Highlight: Fine views over Bassenthwaite Lake from Noble Knott.

Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)

Ascent: 1,850 feet (560m)

In summary: We use the minor roads and field paths to Braithwaite and enter the woodland to reach Comb Beck. Tracing the beck's course through the forest we arrive at Whinlatter Visitor Centre. Our descent takes us through the trees emerging on the ridge path from Grisedale Pike where with luck we will have extensive views before returning via Braithwaite.

Highlight: Superb views from below Grisedale Pike.

Distance: 11.5 miles (19km)

Ascent: 3,000 feet (920m)

In summary: Grisedale Pike is the prominent and elegant peak seen from the front of Derwent Bank. We cross to Braithwaite and ascend the well used ridge path to the summit. Our descent begins following Hobcarton End and then forest tracks and paths back down past Whinlatter Visitor Centre to the pretty villlage of Braithwaite and then take roads and paths back to the house.   

Highlight: On a clear day there are views in all directions from the summit of Grisedale Pike including the impressive neighbouring Hopegill Head.

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: Follow the stunning western shoreline of Derwent Water to the pretty hamlet of Grange. Visit Dalton’s Cave, tucked away in the peaceful Borrowdale woodland, before following the crystalline water of the River Derwent to Rosthwaite.

Highlight: Mountain, lake and river views at every turn.

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)

In summary: Cross the hill from Rosthwaite to Watendlath Tarn, then explore the elevated terrace path along the western side of Derwentwater.

Highlight: The walk along Cat Bells Terrace enjoys a breathtaking panorama over the lake and the surrounding fells.

Distance: 9 miles (14 km)

Ascent: 3,150 ft (960m)

In summary: Head to England’s highest summit, Scafell Pike. We'll ascend via Grains Gill and Esk Hause over large boulders and scree, then descend via the Corridor Route.

Highlight: Expect rough and steep paths; however there's plenty to celebrate when you cross the final boulders to reach the summit.

Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)

In summary: From Bennethead we follow paths through fields and woodland before gently climbing and following the picturesque terrace path along the east then south side of Gowbarrow with its wonderful views over Ullswater. We descend to reach the famous waterfall of Aira Force. To finish we follow the Ullswater Way to Glenridding.

Highlight: Spending time near Ullswater, described by Wordsworth as 'the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords'.

Distance: 8.5 miles (14km)

Ascent: 1,850 feet (580m)

In summary: A circular walk around and over Gowbarrow Fell taking in the high terrace path above Ullswater, before continuing along the Ullswater Way to the village of Glenridding. 

Highlight: The impressive waterfall of Aira Force is one of a series of cascades in this delightful wooded valley. 

Distance: 8½ miles (13½km)

Ascent: 3,300 ft (1,000m)

In summary: A fine horseshoe walk that takes in the long ridge of Hartsop-above-How and the summits of Hart Crag, Fairfield and St Sunday Crag.

Highlight: The ridge between Fairfield and St Sunday Crag is challenging in places, but is a stunning way to cross between these two impressive mountains.

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: Follow the elevated path along Cat Bells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path.

Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you'll enjoy stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells.

Distance:  7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m)

In summary: We begin by heading up the ridge to the summit of Catbells. We then descend to the lakeside path and a beautiful walk along part of the Cumbria Way.

Highlight: Catbells’ shapely summit is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District and affords magnificent views of the Northern Fells.

Distance: 12 miles (19km)

Total ascent: 2,900 feet (920m)

In summary: A  Lake District classic right on the doorstep. A great walk from the house over Cat Bells, Maiden Moor and High Spy returning along the tranquil Newlands Valley.

Highlight: The shapely summit of Cat Bells is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District. There are a few rocky sections, but your efforts will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the lake and the surrounding fells.

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 250 ft (80m)

In summary: We walk from Threlkeld through fields and along part of the River Greta into Keswick and then back to Derwent Bank.

Highlight: On a clear day you will get fantastic views of Skiddaw and Blencathra.

Distance: 10½ miles (17km)

Total ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)

In summary: Walk from the village of Threlkeld into the lonely valley of Glenderaterra Beck. We follow a terraced path high above the valley and take in the stunning viewpoint of Latrigg on our return via Keswick.

Highlight: Look out for the graves of Robert Southey and Canon Rawnsley as you pass Crossthwaite Church.

Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)

Ascent: 3,100 feet (950m)

In summary: Climb to the top of Blencathra via Souther Fell and Scales Fell. Our descent route over Blease Fell allows us to complete the entire Blencathra ridge before finishing by walking back to the house.

Highlight: Ticking off one of the Lake District's most iconic mountains.

Distance: 6½ miles (10km)

Ascent: 800 feet (240m) 

In summary: Enjoy the scenery as you walk from Squat Beck through fields and farmyards to the village of Buttermere. 

Highlights: Walk to the village of Buttermere where at the time of the Norman Conquest, the English had a secret headquarters where they manned a counter-attack from the valley. Buttermere was one of the few northern valleys the Normans were never able to capture. 

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 2,050 feet (640m)

In summary: Cross the Derwent Fells from Buttermere to Derwent Bank. Our route takes us through the Sail Pass, then on over the grassy summit of Barrow.

Highlight: Barrow is one of the area's most attractive lower fells, with views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the Newland's Valley.

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 3350ft (1020m)

In summary: We venture out to Buttermere and then embark on a fantastic journey across some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District. The walk takes in Whiteless Pike, Wandope, Eel Crag, Sail and finally Barrow before dropping into the valley and walking back to the house.

Highlight: The changes in scenery and outlook across the day. We journey from the beautiful Buttermere and its fells in the morning, to the majestic Derwentwater in the afternoon.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)

Ascent: 700 feet (220m)

In summary: From Spring's Farm we ascend gradually then follow field paths to the iconic Castlerigg Stone Circle. We then head down to join the Keswick to Threlkeld railway path alongside the River Greta back to Keswick. 

Highlight: Spectacular views in all directions from Castlerigg Stone Circle. 

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 850 feet (260m)

In summary: Following footpaths and the lake shore for much of this walk, we will make a complete circuit of stunning Derwentwater. Beginning from the house we first walk through Keswick before heading along the east of the lake then returning through beautiful woodland along the western shores to our country house.

Highlight: Spectacular, ever changing views of the all the fells around the lake including the imposing Skiddaw range and famous Cat Bells.

Distance: 10½ miles (17km)

Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)

In summary: After a short coach ride we begin at Springs Farm we ascend steadily alongside Brockley Beck to emerge on the open top of Walla Crag. There are superb views over the lake, town and surrounding fells. We continue up to the summits of Bleaberry Fell and High Seat, before descending to the much photographed Ashness Bridge, from where we follow woodland paths to Derwentwater. We follow the shoreline back to Keswick then on to the house.

Highlight: You will enjoy stunning views of the Lakeland Fells, North Pennines and Scotland. You might even catch a glimpse of Criffel.

Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)

In summary: From Bennethead we follow paths through fields and woodland before gently climbing and following the picturesque terrace path along the east then south side of Gowbarrow with its wonderful views over Ullswater. We descend to reach the famous waterfall of Aira Force. To finish we follow the Ullswater Way to Glenridding.

Highlight: Spending time near Ullswater, described by Wordsworth as 'the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords'.

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 2,100 feet (640m)

In summary: Make the moderately steep ascent to the top of Place Fell that commands an excellent view at the head of Ullswater. We descend to follow the attractive lakeside path to Glenridding.

Highlight: Ullswater is one of the area's most attractive lakes. You'll enjoy great views towards Helvellyn and the North Pennines.

Distance: 11½ miles (18.5km)

Ascent: 3,700 feet (1,120m)

In summary: From Glenridding we walk past the old lead mine and take the zig-zag track up onto the ridge to the summit of White Side and eventually to the summit of Helvellyn with its spectacular ridges dropping away in front of us. We continue though along the high ground, over Nethermost Pike and Dollywagon Pike, before descending into Grisedale and Lanty’s Tarn before reaching Glenridding. A challenging, fabulous day!

Highlight: Enjoy a great sense of achievement as you reach the summit of the Lake District's third highest mountain. 

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: Follow the elevated path along Cat Bells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path.

Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you'll enjoy stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells.

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m) 

In summary: Starting from the front door we head up the ridge to the summit of Cat Bells. We then descend to the lakeside path and a beautiful walk along part of the Cumbria Way. 

Highlight: Cat Bells' shapely summit is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District and affords magnificent views of the Northern Lakes. 

Distance: 12 miles (19km)

Total ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)

In summary: Rising above the western shore of Derwentwater is the distinct shape of Cat Bells. After an initial steep ascent we stride out along the ridge of Maiden Moor to High Spy with wonderful views in all directions. Then descent into the upper reaches of the Newlands Valley.

Highlight: The descent via Dalehead Tarn and a waterfall makes for a lovely contrast as we pass old mine workings, farms and the homes of Beatrix Potter’s animal characters.

Distance: 6½ miles (10km)

Ascent: 800 feet (240m) 

In summary: Enjoy the scenery as you walk from Squat Beck through fields and farmyards to the village of Buttermere. 

Highlights: Walk to the village of Buttermere where at the time of the Norman Conquest, the English had a secret headquarters where they manned a counter-attack from the valley. Buttermere was one of the few northern valleys the Normans were never able to capture. 

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)

In summary: We begin walking through the woods to the shore of Crummock Water, where we walk alomg the shore before ascending steeply onto Rannerdale Knotts. A smaller fell but with views that really pack a punch. The remainder of the walk follows the shoreline around beautiful Buttermere.  

Highlight: The Buttermere valley is one of the most picturesque parts of the Lakes, surrounded by towering peaks on all sides. 

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 3,200 feet (980m) 

In summary: From Buttermere village we ascend to the summit of Whiteless Pike, we then follow the ridgeline up to Wandope, Crag Hill and Sail. We than descend down the valley of Sail Beck back into Buttermere village.

Highlight: A high level traverse of some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District with spectacular views. 

Distance: 6 miles (110km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)

In summary:  Starting at the village of Thornthwaite, we follow Comb Beck through Whinlatter Forest as it snakes past old mines on its way toward the visitor centre. Crossing to the southern side of the Forest we follow forest tracks enjoying wonderful views of Bassenthwaite as we steadily descend to the village of Braithwaite, and onwards across fields and along quiet lanes to Derwent Bank.   

Highlight: Fine views over Bassenthwaite Lake from Noble Knott.

Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)

Ascent: 1,850 feet (560m)

In summary: We use the minor roads and field paths to Braithwaite and enter the woodland to reach Comb Beck. Tracing the beck's course through the forest we arrive at Whinlatter Visitor Centre. Our descent takes us through the trees emerging on the ridge path from Grisedale Pike where with luck we will have extensive views before returning via Braithwaite.

Highlight: Superb views from below Grisedale Pike.

Distance: 11.5 miles (19km)

Ascent: 3,000 feet (920m)

In summary: Grisedale Pike is the prominent and elegant peak seen from the front of Derwent Bank. We cross to Braithwaite and ascend the well used ridge path to the summit. Our descent begins following Hobcarton End and then forest tracks and paths back down past Whinlatter Visitor Centre to the pretty villlage of Braithwaite and then take roads and paths back to the house.   

Highlight: On a clear day there are views in all directions from the summit of Grisedale Pike including the impressive neighbouring Hopegill Head.

Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)

In summary: From Bennethead we follow paths through fields and woodland before gently climbing and following the picturesque terrace path along the east then south side of Gowbarrow with its wonderful views over Ullswater. We descend to reach the famous waterfall of Aira Force. To finish we follow the Ullswater Way to Glenridding.

Highlight: Spending time near Ullswater, described by Wordsworth as 'the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords'.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 1,650 feet (500m) 

In summary: A circular walk around and over Gowbarrow Fell taking in the beautiful high terrace path above Ullswater, before continuing along the Ullswater Way to the village of Glenridding. 

Highlight: The impressive waterfall of Aira Force is one of a series of cascades in this delightful wooded valley.

Distance: 8 miles (13km) 

Ascent: 2,100 feet (640m) 

In summary: Make the moderately steep ascent to the top of Place Fell that commands an excellent view at the head of Ullswater. We descend to follow the attractive lakeside path to Glenridding. 

Highlight: Ullswater is one of the area's most attractive lakes. You'll enjoy great views towards Helvellyn and the North Pennines.

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 800 feet (260m)

In summary: This walk takes us into the Newlands valley, a sparsely populated farming area surrounded by high fells. We go through Portinscale and the outskirts of Braithwaite before walking along the bottom of Barrow, arriving at Ghyll Bank. We then pick up part of the Cumbria Way to head back to the house.

Highlight: Picturesque Newlands valley, is a lovely quieter area which once inspired William Wordsworth. 

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 2,200 feet (660m)

In summary: Cross the Newlands Valley to climb the neighbouring fells of Outerside and Barrow in the Coledale Valley.

Highlight: The grassy slopes of Outerside and Barrow are two delightful lower fells with great views over Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater.

Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)

Ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)

In summary: We'll leave from the house for this circular walk, reaching the summit of Causey Pike and Outerside before making our way back.

Highlight: Spectacular views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater.