Windermere Way — Hike a poetic loop of a Lakeland legend

Exploring the picturesque shoreline of Lake Windermere and rising high into the poetic fells that surround it, the Windermere Way is renowned for spellbinding views that showcase some of the most spectacular countryside in Britain.

Starting and finishing in Bowness-on-Windermere, the 42-mile (68 km) hike takes you on an anti-clockwise loop of Lake Windermere. The route follows many accessible shoreline paths and includes climbs to some of the best summits around the water. Expect big views and varied hiking on this journey around the most famous lake in the Lake District National Park.

The fells you summit on the Way include: Orrest Head, where legendary hiker Alfred Wainwright first set eyes on the fells he would become synonymous with; Wansfell Pike, the highest point en route, which affords epic views over Windermere to Bowfell, the Scafells and the Langdales, as well as views north towards the Kirkstone Pass; Loughrigg Fell, where captivating panoramas await; Gummer's How, which boasts a magnificent vista over the southern end of the lake, the Coniston fells and Morecambe Bay; and Brant Fell, an easy to reach summit that rewards richly.

Other highlights include beautiful tarns such as Patrick's Bath, Ganymede's Reflection and Loughrigg, plus iconic views from Claife Heights and Finsthwaite Tower. There are also plenty of historical sites, as well as idyllic villages straight from a Beatrix Potter storybook.

At 10.5 miles (17 km) long, Windermere is the longest natural lake in England. Its deepest point is 219 feet (67 m). As the most well-known and popular lake in the national park, the area has plenty of accommodation and places to eat and drink. However, as soon as you get away from the honeypot towns, a sense of peace and serenity pervades.

In this Collection, I have divided the route into three stages of between 12-15 miles (19-24 km). Each Tour finishes close to accommodation and somewhere for food and drink. However, places get booked up in advance, especially in peak season, so be sure to plan ahead.

Of course, you can divide the Collection into as many days as you are comfortable with. It’s also possible to walk individual stages. Public transport can be sparse in some areas but the majority of the trail is relatively well-served. As the route is a loop, you can, of course, start wherever you like and walk clockwise, should you wish.

Parts of the Lake District can be fairly busy at times. As such, you are never far away from civilisation. However, always bring enough food and water, as there are times you walk for miles without the opportunity for a resupply. I recommend sturdy footwear and waterproofs no matter what season, as well as sunscreen. You can hike this route at any time of year and each season offers a unique perspective on the scenery.

The nearest train station to the start/finish is Windermere, 1.4 miles (2.4 km) from the start of the route. On the whole, the area has good public transport links.