Content Team
01 February 2021
After enjoying a beautiful warm and dry summer in the Lake District and visitors to our self-catering cottages can get to know some exceptionally gorgeous trails as the colours of the leaves begin to change and the days shorten slightly. It's a time for reflection as the summer moves into the golden recesses of Autumn.
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 Grange and following the River Derwent to Seatoller through woodlands and old quarries and then on an elevated path above the valley.
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. The walk around Buttermere can take as little as 2 hours but you should really linger a while and enjoy it.
3. Langdale
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. Finish up in the Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel and enjoy a pint in front of the roaring fire in the bar.
4. Ullswater
Brothers Water near Ullswater is perfect for an early morning stroll. There is something quite special about seeing the mist rising off the water as the day warms up. Start from Cow Bridge where there is parking and walk along the side of the water with Low Wood on your right. Low Wood is dotted with wizened old trees with gnarly branches and roots. In the early morning light, it can look quite spectacular.
5. Grasmere and Rydal
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!
Stay at one of our self-catering holiday cottages in Ambleside
Before you set off and go touring this vast and beautiful region of England, take a look at our range of self-catering holiday cottages throughout the Lake District. Find the perfect holiday property to provide the right backdrop for your Ambleside adventure, whether you plan to go boating, hiking or mountain climbing. Search our collection today.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.