Best walks from Windermere

Windermere Station to Staveley Station

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.

Tough: steep ascents. 9km.

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

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Windermere Station to Kendal Station

an absolute joy. A great rural route of two halves: a fantastic upland off-road stretch using footpaths, grassy tracks, rough rocky bridleways and field paths (the joyful Dales Way section) as far as Crook, then more roads and tracks to Kendal. Grassy tracks can be muddy, there are stiles, gates and fords and rough terrain throughout. The terrain undulates over fells with great views. Follows the Dales Way for a long stretch. Notices explain about tree-planting and grazing by belted Galloway cattle. Crosses Cunswick Fell and Kendal Fell with great views of the Lake District fells.

Tough: steep ascents. 17km.

Foot-only due to many stiles, gates and rough terrain; a railway level crossing uses a light system; crossing the often-busy A591 dual carriageway means judging gaps in traffic (a nearby road bridge can be used instead). Navigation over the little hill of Grandsire and the fields from Low Crag needs care. The route through Kendal's shopping centre is only passable during trading hours.

Lunch stop: the Sun Inn.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route