Top 5 Lake District walks in autumn

Make the most of autumn in the Lake District by getting outside and trying a scenic walk around beautiful lakes and through peaceful countryside. You can wrap up warmly for weather that’s starting to get a little cooler and stomp through crisp leaves as you wander through ancient woodland.

Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to uncover hidden spots and enjoy spectacular views of pretty valleys and dramatic Lakeland fell. This time of year is also perfect for reflection as the summer moves into the golden recesses of autumn.  

There are also plenty of characterful pubs and cosy Lake District cottages where you can spend time relaxing with friends and family after enjoying an exhilarating autumn walk in beautiful places like Borrowdale and Buttermere.

Skip to:

• Borrowdale
• Buttermere
• Langdale Valley
• Brothers Water near Ullswater
• Alcock Tarn near Grasmere

1. Borrowdale

The pretty valley of Borrowdale is a favourite all year round however it is simply stunning in late summer and autumn. The valley is densely wooded in places and there are two ancient woods that really come to life as the leaves start to change colour. Elusive jay birds squawk and flutter through the trees, count yourself lucky if you manage to capture more than a glimpse of one! The best way to enjoy the autumn colours is an easy 8-mile loop of the valley starting from the village of Grange and following the River Derwent to Seatoller through woodlands and old quarries and then on an elevated path above the valley. Look out for bashful red squirrels during this autumnal walk and treat yourself to a cake in Grange Café on your return.

2. Buttermere

Buttermere really comes into its own during autumn. On the western side of the lake, the lower flanks of High Crag and High Stile are cloaked with trees. As it is one of the smaller lakes the water is often calm and still early in the day. This creates a magnificent mirror effect and the famous pines to the north of the lake are reflected in all their glory. We recommend trying the 4.5-mile loop anti-clockwise walk around Buttermere and keeping your eyes peeled for otters and deers, which you’re most likely to see on an early-morning stroll. The lakeshore path will take you through pretty woodland and a quirky stone tunnel that’s carved into a cliff.

3. Langdale Valley

Langdale is a spectacular valley. The Langdale Pikes provide a stunning backdrop to this famous location that is eternally popular with walkers and climbers. Enjoy a simple stroll along the valley floor through fields and over old bridges. Follow the National Trust’s Mickleden Valley Trail which is an out and back route that follows a section of the Cumbrian Way along Mickleden Beck where you can see Pike O’ Stickle and Raven Crag rise above you. The family-friendly trail is easy to follow and starts and finishes at the Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel so you can enjoy a pint and a bite to eat in front of the bar’s roaring fire on your return.

For a shorter but more challenging route, try the Stickle Tarn Trail which involves some tricky scrambles but breathtaking scenery.

4. Brothers Water near Ullswater

Brothers Water near Ullswater is one of the Lake District’s lesser-known lakes and this peaceful spot is perfect for an early morning stroll. It’s located at the northern end of the Kirkstone Pass and there is something quite special about seeing the mist rising off the water while surrounded by mountain views as the day warms up. Start this 2.5-mile walk from Cow Bridge where there is parking and walk along the side of the water with Low Wood on your right. You’ll follow a path to Hartsop Hall which is a one of the oldest buildings in Patterdale and can enjoy wonderful views of high fell as you walk around the water. Look out for various species of birds including cuckoos and pied flycatchers and if you’re feeling brave you can even try a spot of wild swimming in the water.

5. Alcock Tarn near Grasmere

Tucked away above Grasmere there is a small tarn called Alcock Tarn. It is set on a wide ledge amidst the crags and colourful bracken and has a stunning panoramic view to the Langdales, across Grasmere and Rydal Water and to lovely little Loughrigg Fell. For very little effort you can hike to this tarn and enjoy the superb view. Make sure you stock up on Grasmere Gingerbread before you set off on this almost 4-mile walk and look out for Greenhead Ghyll, a packhouse-style bridge and views of the Vale of Grasmere. The walk will also take you past Dove Cottage in Grasmere if you fancy learning more about William Wordsworth who is synonymous with the area.

Plan your getaway to the Lake District

This beautiful national park is filled with scenic strolls, and you’ll find lots more inspiration of trails to try in this guide to the best lakeside walks in the Lake District. There are also plenty of holiday cottages where you can rest your head after days of exploring lovely locations like Windermere, Coniston, Ambleside and Keswick.