🥾 Top Hikes in the Lake District: Difficulty, Distance & Details from LA9 7QT

The Lake District offers a diverse range of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Based in Kendal (postcode LA9 7QT), you’re ideally situated to explore these scenic routes. Below is a curated selection of hikes, categorized by difficulty, complete with map links to guide your adventures.

🟢 Easy Walks

1. Tarn Hows

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~25 miles (~45 minutes drive)

  • Walk Length: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)

  • Description: A flat, circular walk around a picturesque tarn with wheelchair-friendly paths. Ideal for families and casual walkers.

  • Map: Tarn Hows Circular Walk

2. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~22 miles (~40 minutes drive)

  • Walk Length: 2.5 miles (4 km)

  • Description: A scenic walk along the River Brathay with views of waterfalls, mountains, and woodland.

  • Map: Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge Walk

🟡 Moderate Walks

3. Orrest Head

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~10 miles (~20 minutes drive)

  • Walk Length: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)

  • Description: A short but steep climb leading to a summit that offers one of the best panoramic views for such a modest ascent.

  • Map: Orrest Head Walk

4. Loughrigg Fell

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~20 miles (~35 minutes drive)

  • Walk Length: 6 miles (9.7 km) round trip

  • Description: A varied walk with some climbing, rewarding you with stunning views of Grasmere and Rydal Water.

  • Map: Loughrigg Fell Walk

🔴 Hard Walks

5. Helvellyn via Striding Edge

  • Difficulty: Hard

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~35 miles (~1 hour drive)

  • Walk Length: 8.5 miles (13.7 km)

  • Description: A classic Lake District challenge featuring steep ascents, exposed ridges, and breathtaking views.

  • Map: Helvellyn Walk

6. Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head

  • Difficulty: Hard

  • Distance from LA9 7QT: ~40 miles (~1.5 hours drive)

  • Walk Length: 6 miles (9.6 km)

  • Description: England’s highest mountain. Rocky paths and steep climbs make this a demanding but rewarding hike.

  • Map: Scafell Pike Walk

🚗 Travel Tips from LA9 7QT

  • By Car: Most trailheads are best accessed by car; early starts help avoid crowded car parks.

  • By Bus/Train: Some routes (like Orrest Head) are accessible via public transport.

  • Safety Tip: Weather in the Lakes can change rapidly—check conditions and pack accordingly.

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