The UK is full of green and pleasant land for walking, and arguably nowhere more so than the Lake District. Long loved by serious hikers and leisurely hikers alike, this scenic stretch of the English countryside has managed to be ranked as the best walk in all of England, Scotland and Wales according to Tripadvisor reviews.
This unmissable walking route is the Catbells Lakeland Boardwalk , which has racked up an impressive five stars from 1,687 reviews on Tripadvisor. However, it’s easy to see why the Cumbria Walk is so popular with visitors.
(Image: Tripadvisor)
Described as reasonably short and at times steep but extremely rewarding, the moderate difficulty route is considered suitable for all ages. As it takes at least an hour each way, it makes an ideal half-day activity.
READ MORE: Best beach in England, Wales and Scotland according to Tripadvisor
The route begins a stone’s throw from the bustling town of Keswick , where many choose to stay while visiting the Lake District. It runs from Hawes End or Grange to the 451m high summit of Catbells via a copse, trail and ridge. Once suitably refreshed, you then descend to complete a circular loop.
(Image: Daniel_Kay)
Along the way, walkers have access to breathtaking panoramic views of many of the national park’s distinctive lakes and hills, including Derwent Water, Keswick’s local body of water. On a clear day, you will also see the majestic, smooth mountain of Skiddaw in the distance.
However, although the circular walking route has been classified as “family friendly” by British fellwalker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright and possible for children, prospective hikers should be aware that scrambling is necessary at both for ascent and descent. Good walking shoes and raincoats are also recommended.
(Image: John Finney Photography)
This rare combination of a quick and challenging but not too strenuous walk with the reward of breathtaking views is one of the reasons the Catbells Lakeland Walk scores so highly in Tripadvisor reviews. A recent user wrote, “This is a really good walk with amazing views at the top and well worth the effort.”
Another added: ‘One of the best walks in the area. Please keep in mind that this is classified as ‘exhausting’. You need to be sure you can climb the final sections of the walk… Once you get to the top of the hill you will have one of the best views you can get in England.
(Photo: Chris Hepburn)
As for nearby amenities, there is a small car park with paid parking available at Hawes End and a place for coffee, scones and fresh cakes at the Grange Café, located at the foot of the promenade. If you want to stay locally on the Catbells Lakeland Walk route, cabin rentals About Brandelhow or quaint guesthouse Swinside Farm are about as close as possible.
READ MORE: Underrated Lake District seaside village named one of the best hidden gems just 11km from famous Windermere with the UK’s best small train station
Alternatively there is also the charming market town of Keswick just three miles away with lots of places to stay , as well as eating, drinking and more. You can get between Keswick and Hawes End on foot around the lake or via boat.
(Image: Getty)
How to get there
To get to this top rated walking route from London by car or form is easier than you imagine. Driving from the capital to Keswick or Hawes End, for example, will take around five and a half hours.
Whether you are looking for a trip to sea side or a chance to escape into the wilderness of Scotlandholiday companies are keen to ensure that British travelers are not tempted abroad this summer.
Companies such as Sykes Cottages, Snaptrip, Airbnb, Rural retreats and Coolstays have offers and discounts on all types of vacation homes and homes throughout 2022.
From romantic last minute getaways plan ahead for a big family vacation later in the year, there are already plenty of options to explore to find your dream break.
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Alternatively, if you prefer to take the train, you can take from London Euston to Penrith (Northern Lakes) in just over three hours, often with no changes required. It is then a 26 minute drive to Keswick or a 32 minute drive to Hawes End. Buses are also available.
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