Short Walks in Lakeland - walks in the North Lake District

The second guidebook of this three-part series covers walks in the north Lake District: Borrowdale, Newlands, Bassenthwaite, Thirlmere, Ullswater, Haweswater and the area north of Keswick up to Caldbeck. 57 routes of half- to full-day walks.

Our aim is to describe a wide variety of short walks, averaging between 4 and 8 miles, ideal for a half-day or more leisurely full day, keeping mainly to the lower fells, valleys and woodlands. Whilst the classic walks of Borrowdale, the Keswick area and Patterdale are included, we also point out quieter walks which will appeal to those who seek less popular but equally beautiful places. Many of these use old green paths or hollow ways, once trodden by the feet of miners or shepherds, sometimes zigzagging easily up extremely steep hillsides.

Although this is not primarily a high-fell walking guide, the nature of the area demands a degree of effort, and most of the walks visit a summit. Priority is given to the lower fells, which our experience shows to be as rewarding as their higher brethren.

We have aimed to present a combination of comprehensive coverage, detailed route description and easy-to-follow maps in an interesting way. If you work your way through the walks you will, like us, retain many rich memories of some of England’s most scenic countryside.

We hope you enjoy the walks as much as we have.

Aileen and Brian Evans
Preston, 1996