Windermere Way
Windermere Way: Complete Guide to Hiking the Classic Lake District Loop
Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of the Windermere Way, a celebrated walking route that circles the shimmering expanse of Windermere—England’s largest lake. Winding through the heart of the Lake District, this trail offers hikers an ever-changing vista of wooded trails, charming lakeside villages, and rolling hills that rise majestically above tranquil water.
As you venture along the varied path, you’ll pass beneath ancient canopies, gaze across sweeping meadows, and pause at scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding fells. The rhythm of gently lapping water and the lush green of the forest create an atmosphere of peaceful exploration, making the Windermere Way a quintessential Lake District adventure for nature lovers and walkers alike.
Route Overview
The Windermere Way is a 72-kilometer circular route that circumnavigates Lake Windermere, typically starting and finishing in the bustling town of Windermere. The loop can be walked in either direction, and popular entry points include Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere, allowing for flexible planning and access via public transport. The full route is generally completed over four days, with convenient access to accommodation and amenities at major towns and villages en route.
Hikers will pass through or near a variety of notable locations, including Windermere town, Bowness-on-Windermere, Ferry Nab, Claife Heights, Wray Castle, Far Sawrey, Ambleside, and several smaller hamlets along the lakeshore and upland fringes. Trail conditions range from well-maintained gravel and dirt paths to more rugged woodland tracks and occasional sections of quiet country lane. Moderate elevation changes are present, particularly around Claife Heights and Orrest Head, but the majority of the route is suitable for fit walkers with some experience.
Facilities such as restrooms, water sources, campsites, and picnic areas are available at intervals, though carrying food and water for sections between towns is recommended. The route is waymarked in places, but navigation skills are helpful, especially where paths traverse less-trodden woodland or meadows. The path is family-friendly and pet-friendly in most areas, though care is needed on busier roads or steeper sections.
Historical Context of Windermere Way
The Windermere Way weaves through a landscape steeped in history, reflecting centuries of human activity and natural transformation. Ancient woodlands and stone walls along the route hint at its agricultural heritage, while historic estates and stately homes—such as Wray Castle and Storrs Hall—stand as reminders of the Victorian era, when the Lake District became a sanctuary for England’s wealthy elite. The trail also passes close to sites associated with famed writers and artists, most notably Beatrix Potter, whose beloved tales were inspired by the surrounding countryside.
Throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Windermere gained popularity with travelers thanks to the arrival of the railway, facilitating easier access to the lake’s serene shores. The lake’s steamers and ferries, some of which are still in operation, played a vital role in connecting communities and welcoming visitors. As you hike the Windermere Way, you are following in the footsteps of poets, painters, and pioneers of outdoor recreation who helped shape the Lake District into the iconic landscape it is today.
Notable highlights
Wray Castle: This striking Victorian neo-gothic castle boasts panoramic lake views and extensive grounds, offering a glimpse into Windermere's opulent past and hosting various exhibitions and family-friendly activities.
Orrest Head: A modest climb from Windermere town brings you to this celebrated viewpoint, famously described by Alfred Wainwright as his introduction to the Lake District, with sweeping vistas across the lake and fells.
Claife Viewing Station: An atmospheric ruin with colored glass windows, the station was built in the 1790s for early tourists and offers a unique perspective of the lake’s central section.
Bowness-on-Windermere: This bustling lakeside town provides opportunities to explore local shops, visit historic churches, enjoy diverse dining, and embark on lake cruises.
Storrs Hall: Set on a private peninsula, this impressive Georgian mansion features beautiful gardens and a lakeside temple, recalling a time when Windermere was a fashionable destination for England’s elite.
Lakeshore Woodlands: Between Wray Castle and High Wray, ancient woodlands with towering oaks and tranquil glades provide peaceful walking and chances to spot local wildlife.
Ambleside: At the northern tip of Windermere, this lively village offers heritage sites, charming cafés, and the famous Bridge House—one of the region’s most photographed buildings.
Ferry Nab: The historic ferry crossing connects the west and east shores of Windermere, providing both a practical route and a classic visitor experience.
Millerground: This accessible lakeshore area features open views, picnic spots, and a historic bathing area, perfect for a restful pause along the route.
Challenges to expect
The Windermere Way covers a considerable distance of around 72 kilometers, with several sections involving moderate elevation gain and descent. Some stretches, particularly those that traverse wooded hillsides or skirt the lake’s edge, can be physically demanding, especially for less experienced hikers. Expect occasional muddy or slippery paths, particularly after rainfall, and be mindful of uneven, rocky, or root-covered surfaces that may require careful footing.
Weather in the Lake District can be unpredictable, even during the optimal hiking seasons. Sudden rainfall, mist, and strong winds are common, which can reduce visibility and make certain trail sections more challenging. Waterproof gear and layered clothing are highly recommended to tackle changing conditions.
While much of the Windermere Way is well signposted, some junctions and less-traveled woodland paths can present navigational challenges, particularly in areas where trail markers are sparse or absent. Carrying a detailed map, compass, or GPS device is advisable to ensure you remain on the correct route throughout your journey.
United Kingdom 
England - Forest
- Dirt
- Gravel
- Hotels
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
Begin your journey in the vibrant town of Windermere, heading out through wooded paths towards Bowness-on-Windermere. Take time to enjoy this lakeside town before following trails along the lake’s eastern shoreline, passing peaceful bays and occasional woodland. The route progresses north with scenic views and brief ascents, reaching Ambleside—a lively town with ample accommodation and amenities—at the head of Windermere.
From Ambleside, the path follows the lake’s quieter northwest shore. Enjoy walking through lush woodlands and visiting the impressive Wray Castle, a highlight of the section. The trail continues south through tranquil countryside and occasional lakeshore stretches, bringing you past Low Wray and High Wray before reaching the village of Far Sawrey for your overnight stop.
Leaving Far Sawrey, the route meanders through the wooded high ground of Claife Heights, offering occasional lake views and peaceful forest scenery. Descend toward the western lakeshore and skirt quiet hamlets and farmland before reaching the southern tip of Windermere. End the day at Newby Bridge, where the River Leven exits the lake, marking the start of your journey north on the opposite shore.
The final section heads north from Newby Bridge along the southeastern shoreline, passing through lakeside woodland, quiet rural sections, and the grounds of stately homes such as Storrs Hall. You will pass by the Ferry Nab crossing near Bowness-on-Windermere, then skirt the lake and climb gently back toward your starting point in Windermere, completing the full circuit with a sense of achievement.