If you’re like us, you’re lacing up your walking boots as soon as the first hints of autumn appear in the air. And the Lake District landscape has never looked more inviting. A walk in the Lakes when mountain sides are draped in a rainbow of fiery foliage is just sublime. Here are nine of the best autumnal walks in Lake District.
Langdale
A fantastic autumnal walk in the Lake District is Langdale. Langdale is a remarkable valley that really comes into its own in the autumn months. The Langdale Pikes provide a stunning backdrop in an already beautiful area. Enjoy a simple wander along the valley through bright fields and over ancient bridges. Finish up at one of the hearty pubs nearby and kick back with a pint in front of the roaring fire.
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Borrowdale
Borrowdale is a popular favourite walk all year round, especially in autumn. There are two ancient woods that come to life as the leaves start to change colour. The best way to enjoy the autumn colours at Borrowdale is a steady eight-mile circular walk through the valley, starting from Grange and following the River Derwent to Seatoller through idyllic woodlands and old quarries and then on a raised path above the valley. Make sure to take in the beautiful surroundings – it’s not something you get to witness every day.
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Buttermere
The walk around Buttermere definitely stands out in autumn and is definitely one to remember. On the western side of the lake, the verges of High Crag and High Stile are surrounded with trees. As it is one of the smaller lakes within the Lake District, the water is often calm throughout the day. This creates a magnificent mirror effect with the towering pines to the north of the lake reflected across its glassy surface. The walk around Buttermere can take around two hours, but you’ll inevitably need plenty of moments to stop, take a breath, and revel in the glorious show Mother Nature has put on.
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Ullswater
Ullswater Lake is the perfect location for an early autumnal stoll to watch the morning mists burn away as the day warms up. Start from Cow Bridge and ramble along the side of the water with Low Wood on your right. Low Wood is dotted with withered trees and wild branches and roots. In the early morning light, Ullswater is quite the view. One of our favourite autumnal walks in the Lake District.
Stay at YHA Helvellyn
Grasmere
For those who looking for a more easy walk, the area around Grasmere and Rydal Water provides a peaceful setting perfect for a gentle autumn stroll. Starting from the quaint village of Grasmere, follow the trail that loops around the calm Rydal Water, with its reflection of the surrounding fells. The walk passes through magical woodland, where the red, orange and yellow autumn colours are at their finest.
Don’t miss a trip to Wordsworth’s former home at Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, where the poet was inspired by the awe of this pretty park of the Lake District.
Stay at YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe
Derwentwater
Derwentwater is one of the most scenic lakes in the Lake District and offers a plenty of walking routes. During the autumn months, the surrounding forests and hills are a kaleidoscope of colour – such a beautiful view. The 10-mile route around the lake is a popular choice with walkers, but there are shorter routes for those wanting a gentle ramble and there are picturesque points along the way to snap some photos.
Why not take a boat trip on the lake and enjoy the sights from the water too?
Stay at YHA Keswick
Scafell Pike
For adventure junkies seeking an exhilarating autumn adventure, Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, offers a challenging and but amazing experience. The climb is demanding, but the reward is a summit with panoramic views of the Lake District, graced by the vibrant colours of the surrounding fells. The walking path to the top may be a little less crowded in the autumn months. At the top, take in the views and take a moment to soak up the peace.
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Tarns How
Tarn Hows is a picturesque, man-made lake surrounded by wonderful woodland. The short circular walk around the tarn is easy and perfect for even the littlest of legs. The woodlands around the tarn are bursting with bright colours, making it one of the most popular autumn walking routes in the Lake District. The impressive views across the tarn to the surrounding fells are even more captivating with the bright and golden colours.
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Catbells
Catbells is one of the Lake District’s most popular peaks and its clear why. The short, relatively easy climb rewards walkers with scenic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. In autumn, the trail is lined with vibrant foliage, and the views from the summit are especially striking with the changing colours of the woodland below. It’s a family-friendly walk, ideal for those who want to enjoy the season’s beauty without undertaking a vigorous hike.
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Photo credit: Garden Guru / RamblingTog / Helen Hotson / Nigel / Adobe Stock
