Last reviewed and updated: February 2026
The Lake District is one of the best places in England to start countryside walking and my personal favourite.
You do not need to climb mountains or tackle long routes to enjoy it. There are plenty of gentle walks with beautiful views, lakeside paths, and quiet villages that are perfect for beginners.
This guide covers some of the best beginner friendly walks in the Lake District, focusing on routes that are scenic, manageable, and easy to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
I have also included basic gear tips so you know what to bring.
Beginner Friendly Walks in the Lake District
🌿 Grasmere Lakeside Walk
Grasmere is one of the easiest places to begin walking in the Lake District.
The paths around the village and lake are well maintained and mostly gentle, making this a great first walk if you are new to the area. You can complete the full lakeside loop or shorten the route depending on how you feel.
Approximate distance: 4 to 7 miles
Good to know:
- Mostly flat terrain
- Easy access from the village
- Cafés and pubs nearby
- Ideal first Lake District walk
🌊 Derwentwater Circular Walk
Derwentwater offers wide paths, peaceful lakeside sections, and fantastic mountain views without difficult terrain.
You can walk the full loop or take shorter sections, making it very flexible for beginners.
Approximate distance: 4 to 8 miles depending on route
Good to know:
- Well marked paths
- Flat lakeside sections
- Boat landings if you want to shorten the walk
- Great views throughout
🌼 Rydal Water Walk
Rydal Water is smaller and quieter than many Lake District lakes, with gentle woodland paths and open countryside views.
It feels peaceful and relaxed, perfect for an easy half day walk.
Approximate distance: 3 to 5 miles
Good to know:
- Calm, scenic setting
- Mostly gentle paths
- Less busy than larger lakes
- Easy to combine with nearby villages
🌳 Tarn Hows Circular Walk
Tarn Hows is one of the most beginner friendly walks in the Lake District.
The circular route is short, mostly level, and offers beautiful views over water and surrounding hills. It is ideal if you want scenery without distance.
Approximate distance: around 2 miles
Good to know:
- Mostly flat
- Well surfaced paths
- Suitable for all ages
- Popular but peaceful
🏞️ Buttermere Lake Walk
The walk around Buttermere is a classic gentle Lake District route with dramatic scenery.
The full circuit stays mostly flat and gives a real sense of being surrounded by mountains, without needing steep climbs.
There is also a lovely pub in the village if you fancy food or a drink after the walk – The Bridge Hotel.
Approximate distance: around 4.5 miles
Good to know:
- Mostly level lakeside path
- Incredible views
- Can be muddy after rain
- Café in the village
What to Bring on a Beginner Lake District Walk
You do not need specialist gear for most beginner Lake District walks.
Most people will be comfortable with:
- Walking shoes
- Small backpack
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm layer
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Head torch, especially in cooler months
If you are building your kit, these guides will help:
→ Day Hiking Essentials for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ What to Wear for UK Countryside Walks (Season-by-Season Guide)
→ Best Day Hiking Backpacks for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Walking Shoes for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Walking Socks for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Waterproof Walking Jackets (2026)
How Long Should Beginner Lake District Walks Be?
If you are new to walking, aim for around 3 to 6 miles to start in the Lake District.
This usually takes 2 to 4 hours at a relaxed pace with breaks.
As confidence grows, you can slowly increase distance or try routes with more elevation. There is no rush. Enjoy the scenery and take your time.
Final Thoughts
The Lake District offers some of the most beautiful beginner friendly walking in England.
Start with gentle routes, build confidence slowly, and enjoy being outdoors. You do not need to rush into harder walks to have a great experience here.
Related Guides:
→ What to Wear for UK Countryside Walks (Season-by-Season Guide)
→ Best Day Hiking Backpacks for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Day Hiking Essentials for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Walking Shoes for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Walking Trousers for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
→ Best Walking Socks for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
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