Top 10 winter hiking destinations in the Lake District

The Lake District is a dream for anyone who loves hiking or adventure. You’ll find everything here, from peaceful lakeside walks to tough climbs with amazing views at the top.

Whether you’re new to hiking or have lots of experience, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of chances for anyone in the country to get moving, enjoy the outdoors or maybe even try new hiking routes.

We put together the top 10 hiking spots in the Lake District that are fun to enjoy all year long. Each walking destination has something special, from easy walks to well-known hill routes and challenging trails perfect for experienced walkers.

Whether you want to enjoy peaceful, quiet scenery, give yourself a little challenge or discover new views, you’ll find options that suit your interests, hiking level and experience. Get ready for memorable hikes because we've got them tailored just for you.

1. Catbells

Catbells is a favourite for first-time walkers and hikers. It remains one of the best short fell walks in the Lake District. It sits above Derwentwater, and it gives you a great view without the hike taking up your whole day. Isn’t it great?

This steady climb has a few rocky sections. In summer, it has wide lake views. In autumn, it brings quieter paths and warm colours. While winter is peaceful, especially on clear days when the fells are striking.

Best for: Beginners and intermediate hikers
Experience: Fell walking with panoramic lake views

2. Helvellyn
Helvellyn is one of England’s best-known mountains and stands out in the eastern Lakes. There are several routes to the top, so walkers and trekkers can choose the one that fits their level and the weather as well, especially if you wish to go during the Winter.

In summer, the higher paths are wide and welcoming, and in autumn, clear views over Ullswater often open up. But in winter, Helvellyn looks wild and mountain-like, so it’s best for experienced hikers who know how to deal with the challenge of hiking during winter.

Best for: Experienced fell walkers
Experience: High mountain trek, ridges and summits

3. Buttermere Valley
Buttermere Valley has some of the easiest and most beautiful hikes in the Lake District. The classic hike around the Buttermere Lake circuit is mostly a flat hike, so it’s perfect for relaxed winter walks when higher routes might not be safe. The hike also features famous peaks like Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike.

The mountains around Buttermere rise sharply from the lake, creating a dramatic hiking scene for both beginners and casual walkers. Even if you stay on the valley floor, you feel surrounded by these huge peaks. For those new to hiking in the mountains, these nearby peaks are a great way to start exploring. 

Best for: Casual walkers and beginners
Experience: Lakeside and valley walking

4. Langdale Valley
Langdale is one of the most-visited hiking areas in the Lake District, with routes ranging from easy valley hikes to tough hill climbs. It splits into two valleys, the Great Langdale and Little Langdale. 

Great Langdale's lower paths suit winter, while higher routes and tarns open up in summer. Autumn offers calm and clear views, making it a favourite for both photographers and walkers. There are countless walking routes for all seasons, both low and high level. 

Best for: Beginners to experienced hikers
Experience: Valley hikes, fell routes and dramatic scenery

5. Tarn Hows
One of the UK’s favourites, Tarn Hows, is a man-made, stunning, beautiful spot. For some, it’s a hiking route, while beginners can also enjoy a relaxing circular walk. The scenery is stunning, and there are plenty of benches and resting stations. The route gives you a view over to the Coniston hills and Langdale Pikes, which form the backdrop to this spectacular corner of the Lake District.

Every season brings something special here: spring and summer offer green views and calm water, autumn fills the woods with colour, and winter creates a quiet, frosty getaway.

Best for: Beginners, families and relaxed walkers 
Experience: Gentle walking, scenic views

6. Scafell Pike
Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain, standing at 978 metres tall. Thousands of people enjoy Scafell Pike each year, drawing experienced and challenging hikers from all over the UK. However, it’s best to make sure you prepare for this kind of climb. Definitely, not made for those who lack the experience.

It’s busiest in summer, but its impressive shape stands out all year. Spring and autumn often bring clear, quiet days, but in winter, the mountain becomes a real challenge.

Best for: Experienced fell walkers
Experience: High-level mountain trekking, rocky terrain

7. Grasmere and the Fairfield Horseshoe
Grasmere, a favourite village, offers great walks, such as the well-known Fairfield Horseshoe, which is both a local favourite and a tourist favourite. On the side, the Fairfield Horseshoe is an absolute classic Lake District walk and deserves its popularity, rewarding the walker with fine views of the Lake District.

During the Autumn it gives a quiet trail with softer valley light, perfect for those looking for. In winter, lower sections are still enjoyable, while higher ground suits experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

Best for: Intermediate to experienced fell walkers
Experience: Ridge walking and extended fell routes

8. Borrowdale
Borrowdale offers easy riverside walks as well as access to some of the Lake District’s most scenic hills. It’s a great choice if you want flexible options, especially in winter.

There’s a lot packed into the area, including rivers, waterfalls, woodland, lush pastures, rocky crags and fells. There’s plenty to keep you entertained, and turn what is typically a 3.5-hour walk into a 5-7+ hour scenic adventure. 

The lower paths through rivers and woods are ideal when days are short, while higher routes suit good weather. Distinct seasons stand out, from spring waterfalls to winter's quiet beauty. Definitely a must-visit for all seasons!

Best for: Good for all levels
Experience: Valley walking with fell access

9. Loughrigg Fell
Loughrigg Fell shows you don’t need a high climb for great views. It’s a superb vantage point for the surrounding fells. Between Grasmere and Ambleside, it offers a short, varied hike with excellent viewpoints. Almost every angle of the hike gives a good view! Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Loughrigg Fell provides the perfect walking trail all year long.

In summer, you can see several lakes at once. In winter, routes remain accessible even when higher peaks may not. If you’d ask us, it’s ideal for those trying to gain confidence with their hiking and walking activities.

Best for: Beginners and intermediate hikers
Experience: Low fell walking with wide views

10. Ennerdale Valley
Ennerdale is one of the most natural valleys in the Lake District and really feels like an escape. There are fewer services and fewer people here, so it feels wild and open. If you’re someone who’s looking for a quieter trail, avoiding the crowd, especially in peak season, then this might be for you.

Walking here is all about soaking in the surroundings, with long valley paths and wide views. The changing light makes it special year-round, and winter feels peaceful.

Best for: Intermediate hikers seeking quieter routes
Experience: Remote valley walking, wilderness atmosphere

Ready to Explore the Lake District?
The Lake District has definitely made it to the UK’s top hiking spot, with something to look forward to in each season. Enjoy gentle winter lakeside walks or summer fell routes, its variety is hard to beat.

If you choose places suited to your experience and consider the season as well, you’ll always have safe and memorable walks. Whether it’s exploring new trails or returning to your old favourites, the Lake District always inspires and rewards exploring on foot year-round.

If you haven’t planned anything yet, we’ve got curated activities to help explore the Lake District. Discover our activities today!