A Guide to Guided Walks
Guided Walks in the Lake District
Free Guided Walks Led by Volunteers at the Lake District National Park Authority
Want to explore the incredible peace of the Lake District trail and mountain tops, but don’t know where to start? The Lake District National Park Authority runs free guided walks, led by volunteers who know every path like the back of their hand—whether you’re up for a chilled stroll or a proper hike. Guided walks are a chance to explore unseen corners of the Lake District, learn from seasoned guides, and even make new friends along the way. Make a holiday of it by staying at Underscar, where our cottages offer a comfy spot to kick back, share stories, and plan your next adventure.
How the Guided Walks Work
These walks are organised and led by the Lake District National Park Authority, offering a range of routes for all abilities. Here’s how to join:
Choose Your Walk
Browse the National Park’s schedule and select a walk that suits your interests and fitness level.
Book Your Spot
Reserve your place through the National Park’s Eventbrite page or contact them directly.
Prepare for the Walk
Receive details on what to bring and where to meet from the National Park team.
Meet Your Guide
Gather at the designated starting point to begin your adventure.
Enjoy the Walk
Explore the Lakes with expert insights and stunning views.
Explore Guided Walks by Ease
Easy Strolls
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Leisurely walks on flat or gently rolling paths, perfect for all ages. Pushchair and wheelchair friendly.
Easy Strolls
Village Tours
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Historical tours of charming villages with gentle hills. Some are pushchair friendly—check route details.
Village Tours
Moderate Adventures
Duration: 2.5 to 5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Family-friendly walks with moderate hills and uneven paths for a bit more adventure.
Moderate Adventures
Hilly Challenges
Duration: 4 to 6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
Full-day walks over hilly terrain with steeper climbs. Ideal for fit walkers.
Hilly ChallengesSummit Treks
Duration: 4 to 6 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging
Strenuous summit walks requiring fitness and gear, with stunning views as your reward.
Summit TreksWalks by Area
Experience the Lake District with free guided walks from the Lake District National Park Authority. Explore diverse areas with walks tailored to all levels, from gentle lakeside paths to scenic fell routes.
Keswick and Derwentwater
Enjoy guided walks around Keswick and Derwentwater, offering stunning lake views and town charm.
Area: Northern Lakes
Explore Walks
Ullswater, Glenridding and Pooley Bridge
Discover Ullswater’s beauty with walks ranging from peaceful shores to rolling hills.
Area: Eastern Lakes
Explore Walks
Grasmere and Ambleside
Discover Grasmere’s tranquil lake and Ambleside’s scenic fells on guided walks.
Area: Central Lakes
Explore Walks
Elterwater
Discover Elterwater’s tranquil lake and picturesque woodlands on guided walks.
Area: Central Lakes
Explore WalksConiston and Hawkshead
Explore Coniston’s scenic lake and fells, and Hawkshead’s charming village on guided walks.
Area: Southern Lakes
Explore WalksEskdale and Ravenglass
Discover Eskdale’s scenic valley and Ravenglass’s historic coast on guided walks.
Area: Western Lakes
Explore Walks
A Home from Home for your Walking Retreat
After a day of wandering the Lake District trails, there’s nothing better than returning to Underscar. Looking out at those sweeping views of Keswick, Derwentwater, and the fells beyond from the sanctuary of your private balcony, a glass of wine in hand, reminds you what really matters in life. Unwind with a good book in the soothing sauna, or share laughter with friends in the bubbling spa pool, letting the day’s adventures fade into a quiet, contented glow.