Top 5 Relaxed Winter Walks Near Windermere
Winter is my favorite time of year to enjoy some of the area’s less demanding walks which are also much less trodden compared to peak summer season. There’s something truly magical about the Lake District during this quieter season; crisp mornings bring a refreshing chill to the air, while frost carpets the ground, crunching softly with each step. It’s a season that invites a slower pace, where you can fully appreciate the stillness and breathtaking views that make this part of the world so special.
In this post, I’ll take you through my personal top-5 relaxed winter walks near Windermere, so you can experience the Lake District at its crisp, frosty best.
1. Orrest Head, Town of Windermere
Just a short 5-minute drive from Holbeck Ghyll, this easy-to-follow, 90-minute walk takes you through a calm woodland landscape that’s perfect for anyone seeking a short but rewarding stroll. It’s a firm favorite of mine when in need of a short refreshing stoll.
The well-defined path starts at the outskirts of Windermere (next to the Windermere hotel and Orrest bar), winding through a serene woodland, crunches of fallen leaves and twigs underfoot really add to the winter atmoshphere. Along the way, you’ll pass a delightful woodland sculpture trail, offering a quirky and artistic touch to your winter adventure. About halfway up, there’s a welcome treat—an inviting coffee trailer “Blacksmith’s Coffee”, serving up coffee, cake and delicious hot chocolates (perfect for warming up on a chilly day). The trailer is open on weekends, so be sure to time your walk just right!
As you continue your gentle ascent, the trees gradually give way to stunning views of Lake Windermere, with the frosty landscape stretching out before you. The sight of the lake, framed by the surrounding snow-dusted fells, is a picture-perfect reward for your winter stroll. This gentle walk is an ideal way to experience the beauty of the Lake District in winter—peaceful, picturesque, and full of seasonal magic.
This link will open in a new window
2. Jenkins Cragg, Troutbeck
This circular route to Waterhead (near Ambleside) offers a perfect balance of woodland beauty, panoramic views, and the option to explore a small selection of local shops, garden center or even boat tours. This 60-minute walk takes you through varied terrain – sturdy walking boots with good grip are a must. Be prepared for a mix of muddy paths and rocky sections as you make your way through the picturesque landscape.
The route leads you through a charming woodland (Skellghyll Wood) before reaching Jenkins Cragg, a stunning viewpoint offering sweeping views of Windermere in its entirety. It’s the perfect spot for a photo op or a moment of quiet reflection. As you continue, the path descends through woodland and open fields as you head towards the town of Waterhead, where you can enjoy a well-deserved break. Here, you’ll find restrooms, cosy tea and coffee shops, Hayes Garden World (well worth a visit for their Christmas displays!) and the option to hop on a scenic lake cruise—ideal if you want to explore Windermere from a different perspective.
For the return leg of the journey, you have two options. You can either retrace your steps back along the same route, or if time is short, there’s a road option, and bus stops nearby the hotel make it easy to catch a ride back. This is a perfect route for anyone looking to fill an afternoon without straying too far from the hotel.
This link will open in a new window
3. Stockghyll Force, Ambleside
This 45-minute circular walk from Ambleside to Stockghyll Force offers a perfect opportunity to explore one of the area’s most stunning natural landmarks. This well-defined path takes you through a peaceful woodland, walking against the flow of the stream as you follow the path as it winds its way uphill. The route can be a little muddy, especially after a spell of wet weather, so sturdy walking boots/shoes are essential. Along the way, you’ll pass multiple photo-op and picnic areas, ideal for a quick rest or a snack while enjoying the surrounding nature.
The highlight of the walk is, of course, Stockghyll Force itself. The waterfall is truly spectacular, with water cascading dramatically over the rocks. The path allows you to experience the falls from both the bottom and the top, offering two completely different yet equally breathtaking perspectives.
Once you return to Ambleside, you’re just a short stroll from the town center, where you can explore its charming shops and cafes. If you’re in need of a post-walk treat, we highly recommend stopping by the Force Cafe, located nearby. With its fantastic brunch-style menu, it’s the perfect place to relax and refuel after your adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a waterfall enthusiast, or just after a short and satisfying walk, this circular route offers a delightful experience right on Ambleside’s doorstep.
This link will open in a new window
4. Rydal Water, Ambleside
For a leisurely walk that combines natural beauty with a hint of literary history, the 2-hour circular route around Rydal Water is a perfect choice. Starting from Rydal Car Park (just a short drive from Ambleside), this well-developed, flat path takes you alongside the serene waters of Rydal Water, with views of the surrounding fells and peaceful riverside scenery. It’s an easy walk that’s extremley well developed (the lakeside path is suitable for all-terrain pushchairs so is a good option for young families).
For those wanting a little more of a challenge, there’s the option to add an uphill section that leads you past fascinating caves in the fellside—an intriguing detour and photo op for those who enjoy a bit of exploration. Afterward, the path brings you back to the lakeshore, where you can continue your stroll or make a stop at the charming Badger Bar, a traditional walkers’ pub nestled near Rydal Mount. This is a special spot, as it’s also the home of William Wordsworth’s beloved residence, and the place that inspired his famous poem “Daffodils.”
Whether you choose to stick to the flat lakeside route or venture up to the caves, this circular walk offers a delightful mix of nature, history, and literary significance—ideal for an afternoon of lakeside walking, without tackling overstrenuous inclines or slippy rocks etc.
This link will open in a new window
5. Tarn Hows, Hawkshead
This 90-minute circular walk is a 20 minute drive from the hotel however is a “must” for many. The route offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, with breathtaking views over the tranquil tarn and surrounding woodlands, all set against the backdrop of the fells. Whether you’re an experienced walker or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, this walk is accessible to all, with gentle inclines that make it suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and even trampers, which are available to hire through the National Trust (book in advance to guarantee availability).
Tarn Hows is undoubtedly one of the Lake District’s most popular and beloved walks, offering an unforgettable experience no matter the season. This is a family-favourite walk, especially when combined with a ferry crossing from ferry-nab to Hawkshead and I cannot recommend enough if you are searching for an easy walk with high reward.
The car park can get busy, especially during peak times, winter generally offers a quieter experience, and spaces are typically more readily available. However, please be aware that the car park does not accept card payments, so it’s strongly recommended to bring at least £5 in pound coins to cover the parking fee. Mobile signal can be spotty in this area, so having cash on hand is essential.
This link will open in a new window
About The Team Member...
Gregory Simons
You'll usually find Greg behind his laptop...as a tech enthusiast, he’s been very engaged with all our digital operations. Including the creation of our website and personally creating and coding our room controls and room heating systems ensuring they are energy-efficient and in line with our commitment to reducing our environmental impact
Other Posts From This User
