Discover the Lake District’s literary heritage and inspiring landscapes on the Tour of the Lake District, a 144km (90-mile) circular long-distance route beginning and ending in Ambleside. Traverse iconic scenery, from tranquil lakeshores and wildflower meadows to dramatic fells and historic villages, on a journey designed to showcase the very best of Lakeland walking.

Ideal for both new and experienced walkers, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook to the Tour of the Lake District offers low- and high-level routes, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferred style and ability. The route is divided into nine stages, each offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and traditional hospitality.

• The Tour of the Lake District is described in a clockwise direction, with guidance for walking in reverse and suggested 7-, 9-, and 13-day itineraries to suit different timeframes and ambitions.
• Choose the low-level route for a gentler Lake District walk, linking charming villages such as Grasmere, Elterwater, and Patterdale, welcoming inns, and the picturesque valleys of Borrowdale and Great Langdale, as well as the lakeshores of Derwentwater and Coniston Water, throughout the National Park.
• Opt for the high-level alternative to summit classic peaks such as Coniston Old Man, Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and Helvellyn, and to experience the Lake District’s most dramatic mountain scenery.
• Each stage includes start/finish points, distance, estimated walking time, terrain summary, refreshment stops, and accommodation options in villages such as Keswick, Grasmere, and Elterwater.
• Clear, step-by-step route descriptions are supported by detailed 1:50,000 Ordnance Survey® maps, downloadable GPX files, and practical navigation advice, ensuring a safe and enjoyable Lake District walking experience for both traditional and digital users exploring this renowned National Park.
• A detailed route summary table and itinerary planner help you organise your Tour of the Lake District adventure with confidence, making it easy to plan your ideal long-distance walk.

Plan your Tour of the Lake District with this essential guidebook, your key to exploring one of England’s most beautiful long-distance circular walks, and to experiencing the warm hospitality, sweeping vistas, and timeless charm of the National Park.

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.  
 

Tour of the Lake District - Quick Facts

Location: Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England  
Distance: ~144 km / ~90 miles  
Typical duration: ~9 days (flexible 7–13 day options)  
Start & end: Ambleside (circular route)  
Route format: Circular long‑distance walk through valleys, fells and lakes  
Stages: 9 main stages with optional high‑level alternatives  
Difficulty: Moderate – suitable for reasonably fit walkers; high‑level options more strenuous  
Best season: April–October  
Navigation: Detailed 1:50,000 OS maps and GPX files 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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