If you're planning on staying at YHA Hawkshead, why not download a free map and get out exploring?
All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Hawkshead village
Explore the historic village of Hawkshead
Easy route (PDF,1MB)
3.2 miles, takes 1h 15m - 2h 15m
Tarn Hows
This walk heads to Tarn Hows before passing through picturesque Hawkshead
Moderate route (PDF, 1.3MB)
7.2 miles, takes 3h 30m - 5h 30m
Grizedale Forest & Carron Crag
A walk through the stunning Grizedale Forest with fantastic viewpoints
Challenging route (PDF, 1.5MB)
12.8 miles, takes 6h 15m - 10h
All our walking routes are tried and tested to help you explore this beautiful part of England. To assist with route selection and planning, you’ll also find a description of the hazards and facilities, accessibility information and points of interest on the maps
Want to understand more about our maps or develop your walking skills? Here are some useful guides we have created to help you to prepare for your chosen walk
Large garden/grounds
Free parking on premises
Self-catering kitchen
Situated in the pretty Lake District village of Hawkshead, the Grammar School Museum tells the story of school life since its founding in 1585. Our most famous pupil was William Wordsworth and in its...
Only five miles from Windermere, you can try your hand at anything from a lake cruise through to wind surfing, kayaking and canoeing. If you feel the need for speed you can even hire a power boat.
Set off down the bridleway from the back of the hostel to join Grizedale forest which offers hundreds of different routes for mountain bikers of all abilities. The highest point in the forest is Karen...
YHA Hawkshead is a fantastic location for road and mountain bikers, be they novice, families or experienced. Here are some of our recommendations: Grizedale Forest The forest is a mecca for mountain...
Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. See the house first created by William Gaddum, a silk merchant from Manchester, as his family's 'summer house'. Browse the shop...
Full of her favourite things, the house looks like Beatrix has just stepped out for a walk. Don't miss the lovely cottage garden.
Come rain or shine the museum offers a welcoming space to spend time with friends and family. Housed inside striking architecture you’ll find a fascinating collection of boats, interactive displays...
The spectacular voyage gives you views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and the delightful wooded islands.
Enjoy an afternoon on England's largest natural lake. There's a watersports centre on the shore of Windermere, only three miles from the hostel. The centre offers, kayaking, canoeing, raft building...
Take a walk through Miss Potter's famous tales, complete with animatronics and walk-through scenes from her stories. Don't forget to exit through the gift shop!
Tom Ghyll (or Gill) is a lovely stream with two waterfalls. A trail runs alongside the stream and the path then leads up to Tarn Hows. Start at the Car Park on the A593 by Glen Mary Bridge. Head east...
The best cycling is out of season when there's less traffic. There's an endless variety of cycling routes from quiet lanes to high mountain passes. Enjoy beautiful scenery and explore the lovely...
At over 10 miles long, the picturesque ribbon lake Windermere acts as an irresistible magnet at the heart of the Lake District. Surrounded by wooded slopes and moody mountains, your whole itinerary...
With Claife Heights right opposite, the hostel is a perfect base for exploring the area by mountain bike. Exciting steeples and exhilarating ground, along with stunning views make this a fantastic...
The Lake District was made for wild swimming and with this hostel right on the edge of England's largest lake, Windermere, it would be rude not to. The best time for wild swimming here is early...
Here at Ambleside Climbing Wall there's an indoor climbing wall, bouldering room, and cafe. There's also a room dedicated to climbing gear, which can be hired.