Walks from Staveley

Easy, mainly level circular along the River Kent on the Dales Way to the old mill at Cowan Head, through fields and rough pasture.

Time: 2h

Warnings: Some sections may lack way-marks; a map is recommended.

Walk details: Community Rail Cumbria (PDF).

Recommended: Stunning views of the full Lake District fell panorama. Leaves Windermere via residential roads, then climbs onto grassy low fells on stony, sometimes rocky tracks, before dropping farm to farm through lush agricultural fields and quiet lanes into Staveley. Largely follows a well-signposted national trail; gentle for the Lake District with only mild ups and downs and though boggy and uneven underfoot in places. A delightful stepping-stone stream crossing. Largely follows the Dales Way national trail, though not throughout, so keep an eye on the map.

Time: 2h30–5h

Warnings: A network of paths over the open fell around Grandsire requires care with navigation despite the signposting.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Very nice views especially on the Dales Way; the beautiful Lakeland mountains in the background. A lovely riverside route on good paths, following the Dales Way along the River Kent, with a field path and a section parallel to the railway. Relatively flat and easy and though there are some stiles and steps. Follows the Dales Way along the River Kent; good bus links to central Kendal from the housing estate.

Waterway: two thirds along the River Kent.

Time: 2h30–4h30

Warnings: The marked route on the outskirts of Kendal is overgrown with an out-of-action stile; cross the railway bridge and go through the housing estate instead.

Walk details: Slow Ways.