Walker at Watendlath, Cumbria — A walker at Watendlath, Cumbria in autumn | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Countryside in the Lake District

Lace up your walking boots and explore the Lake District’s dramatic landscape. From majestic mountains – among them Scafell Pike, the tallest in England – to ancient woodland, hidden waterfalls, rugged coastline and, of course, its many lakes, there’s something for everyone. Look out for red squirrels, roe deer and birds of prey along the way.

Buttermere, Wasdale, Ennerdale – the Lake District has some spectacular countryside to explore around its famous lakes.

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Tarn Hows and Coniston

Explore the varied landscape of the Lake District around Tarn Hows and Coniston. With endless walk and cycle routes and a Tramper to borrow, there’s something for everyone.

Woman in red waterproof jacket and man in blue puffer jacket walking with a small black dog on a woodland path

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Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park

Aira Force and Ullswater offer walks with far-reaching views, a stunning waterfall, red squirrels, picnic spots and a natural play area.

Visitors wildlife watching on the circular walk around the lake at Buttermere Valley, Lake District

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Buttermere valley

Visit the valley of Buttermere to experience works through rugged landscapes with panoramic views and thundering waterfalls.

A bridge crossing a stream at Stagshaw Garden, Ambleside, Cumbria.

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Ambleside and Windermere east shore

Make the most of the lakeshore paths next to Windermere, lofty peaks and ancient woodlands in Ambleside with these recommended walks. Step back in time at the Roman fort and 17th-century Bridge House.

Two people walking on a footpath with a dog

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Allan Bank and Grasmere

With rugged 19th century woodland grounds, formal lawns, an art gallery and surrounding countryside and lakes to explore, there’s plenty to see and do at Allan Bank and Grasmere.

Two visitors walk around the lake at Ennerdale in winter

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Ennerdale Valley

Get closer to nature in the wild and remote Ennerdale Valley. It's home to more than 100 species of wildlife, including woodland and water birds, butterflies, deer, otter and rare red squirrels.

A view of the rocky ridge on the summit of Pillar, a mountain in Wasdale, Cumbria on a winter's day

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Wasdale

Explore Wasdale to discover England’s highest mountain peak and its deepest lake, and everything else that this area of the Lake District has to offer.

Mountains, wetlands, woodland and coast – the Lake District has more than lakeside landscapes to explore.

A wooden gate in a dry stone wall, with a view out over the estuary, on a grey day at Arnside and Silverdale.

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Arnside and Silverdale

Explore Arnside and Silverdale, an area of national importance for wildlife including rare orchids and butterflies. These coastal villages offer great walks with far reaching views away from the crowds.

Young bird watcher and NT ranger at Sizergh Castle and Gardens, Cumbria

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The estate at Sizergh

Notice nature with a walk through Sizergh’s woodland, wetland and farmland. Keep your eyes peeled as at this time of year the woodland floors are filled with delicate wildflowers, or stop off at the bird hide at Park End to see a variety of duck species and wading birds.

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The Langdales

An adventure playground of rugged slopes, craggy summits and mountaintop tarns can be found in the Langdale Valley. With miles of walking and cycle trails, you can tackle major peaks or join an accessible route surrounded by beautiful views.

View of the beach at Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve, Cumbria

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Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve

Spot a wealth of wildlife at Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve and take in the panoramic views of the Duddon estuary and the Lake District fells beyond.

Two people mountain biking in the Lake District, Cumbria

Enjoy the outdoors safely

Enjoy a great experience in the Lakes by being properly prepared. Checking the weather, carrying the right kit and being confident you have the skills for your planned adventure are just three ways you can enjoy the outdoors safely. Visit Adventure Smart for more tips on how to keep yourself and others safe in the Lakes.