Discover the charm, drama, and literary heritage of the Tour of the Lake District, a multi-day circular long-distance walk through the Lake District’s most inspiring landscapes. This 144 km (90 mile) route starts and finishes in Ambleside, inviting you to enjoy breathtaking views, vibrant wildflowers, glimpses of rare wildlife, and the warm hospitality of Lakeland pubs and tearooms.

Ideal for both beginner and experienced walkers, the Tour offers a choice of low-level and high-level paths, each with its own distinct appeal. The journey is divided into 9 manageable stages, leading you along tranquil lakeshores, up rugged fells, and through traditional villages. Highlights include Buttermere, Patterdale, and Coniston.

The walk is described in a clockwise direction, with helpful tips for planning your adventure in reverse. Flexible 7, 9, and 13-day itineraries let you tailor the pace to your own style, while the guidebook’s clear 1:50,000 Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and navigation advice ensure a confident, enjoyable experience whether you prefer traditional maps or digital devices.

• 9 stage-by-stage route descriptions covering the full Tour of the Lake District in the National Park, beginning and ending in Ambleside
• The low-level Tour of the Lake District route connects peaceful villages, welcoming inns, and beautiful valley and lakeside scenery in the Lake District National Park
• The high-level Tour of the Lake District route leads over classic summits, such as Coniston Old Man, Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and Helvellyn
• Clear step-by-step directions supported by detailed mapping and downloadable GPX files for use with GPS devices and smartphone apps
• Each stage includes distance, estimated walking time, and a summary of terrain
• 1:50,000 OS maps ensure practical navigation support throughout the Tour of the Lake District route
• Refreshment stops and accommodation options listed for each stage, including Keswick, Grasmere, and Elterwater, as well as trail-side facilities.

Plan your Tour of the Lake District adventure with confidence and experience one of the Lake District’s most stunning long-distance circular walks with this definitive guidebook.

Summary of the Tour of the Lake District trail stages 

The Tour of the Lake District can be tackled in 9-day stages, with alternate 7- and 13-day stages also available. Here is a summary of the main 9-day stages, covering a circular route of 144 km (90 miles) that starts and ends in Ambleside. Both low-level and high-level route options are available. 
 

Author Highlight

“The Lake District National Park is one of England’s most popular mountain regions, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, welcoming millions of visitors every year. For fell walkers, experiencing the beauty of the mountains and lakes happens at a relatively slow pace, giving time to admire all that the national park has to offer, away from the crowds that throng the valleys and lakesides. Whether you are an experienced fell walker or are considering your first visit, the Tour of the Lake District will reveal many rewarding views and memorable experiences – the best of the Lake District in a circular tour.” 

- Lesley Williams, author of Walking the Tour of the Lake District

Map key

Seasons

The best walking is generally between April and October, although year-round walking is possible. Winter months can be very cold, windy and wet, with limited daylight.

Centres

Windermere, Ambleside, Coniston, Eskdale, Wasdale, Buttermere, Keswick, Grasmere, Glenridding and Patterdale

Difficulty

The main route described should be within the capabilities of most reasonably fit hillwalkers. High-level alternatives are more strenuous and in winter, snow and ice on high ground may make some sections very challenging. Good navigation skills are essential.

Must See

High passes with superb views; picturesque towns and villages with ancient stone buildings; shapely mountains bisected by lakes, rivers and waterfalls; lake steamers; Castle Rigg Stone Circle; Hardknott Roman Fort; Wastwater - England's favourite view. Climb Scafell Pike, Great Gable, Coniston Old Man and Helvellyn and visit property once owned by Beatrix Potter, Wordsworth and others.

October 2021

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