Situated close to the busy town of Keswick, the Cat Bells is one of the well-known walks in the Lake District, and an excellent introduction to the area, because this relatively short hike (just around an hour) offers a stunning panoramic view of the town of Derwentwater and the surrounding fields. The distance is 1½ miles from Hawes End or 2½ miles from Grange, with a climb of almost 1,300 feet.
Helvellyn Range (a tough climb on the central side that takes almost 9 hours)
For the hardier hikers out there, the Helvellyn range has a host of challenging routes. Though there is a route for every ability in the Striding Edge. You can take the challenge and scramble the route directly, or avoid most difficult moves by following the right-hand path. During the winter months, the routes are dangerous. Once you dare to traverse the rocky arete, you will feel an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and enjoy a vast stretch of landscapes as far as you can see.
Scafell Pike (challenging 5 hours climb on the south-western side)
Another equally impressive hiking possibility lies in scaling the Scafell Pike. It is the highest peak in England that can be conquered via multiple paths. However, all the paths to the primary crests are wild and rocky with sufficient elevations. From the rocky terrain of the Corridor Route to a sufficiently gentle one of the Eksdale approach, hikers can select a route according to their capability and choice. Each of the paths has its challenges and rewards to experience. The geography of the mountain may sometimes appear bewildering, but on a closer inspection, it excites walkers with a sense of adventure. A relatively easier climb to the Scafell Pike is the direct route via Brown Tongue from Wasdale. However, it is a better choice to explore this great mountain range through the longer routes. Such paths enable you to enjoy this stunning mountain range from close.
Whitbarrow Scar and Lord’s Seat
An easy three-hour climb, this circular walk along the Whitbarrow Scar begins from the village of Mill Side. The initial walk is through the woodlands before you climb up the White Barrow Scar. After walking for about 2 km along the scar, Lord’s Seat can be reached from where it is possible to witness an astounding view of the surrounding area. The Morecambe Bay is visible right from the top. The path that descends from Scar also passes through a fascinating woodland.
Keep in mind that the weather in the Lake District is quite unpredictable. Hence, it is best to select dry months to travel to if you have any plans to hike. However, in the dry months, this popular tourist place remains crowded. It is better to reserve an accommodation in advance. Even if you are traveling in the dry months, there is no guarantee that rain will not happen. So, you must always keep a waterproof gear, a rain jacket, and sturdy footwear along with you to protect yourself from the untimely showers.
In addition to the villages mentioned above, there are also various others such as Ambleside, Coniston, Grasmere, Hawkshead, and Windermere, all with plenty of restaurants, pubs, shops, historic/heritage sites, and other venues, as well as various accommodations at various price points including guesthouses, small hotels, and charming Lake District cottages - everything you need for a lovely holiday!
For more info on the Lake District, click here.
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