Our Favourite Lake District Days Out
We are a family who love simple adventures that make you feel good. Below are our tried and loved Lake District picks: short walks with big views, gentle paths for little legs, waterfall wanders and peaceful lakeshores, most with postcodes for parking and easy instructions. Save a few and head out when the weather looks kind.

Orrest Head Walk, Windermere
Looking for a short, easy walk with big views? Orrest Head from Windermere is a 1.7-mile woodland wander to Wainwright’s first Lakes panorama, complete with benches and a viewpoint plate at the top. It’s family-friendly and wheelchair-friendly via the step-free Miles Without Stiles route — and along the way you can spot the Gruffalo and the coin tree.

Todd Crag Walk from Ambleside (via Lily Tarn)
A short but rewarding family walk from Ambleside, Todd Crag walk passes peaceful Lily Tarn and finishes with one of the best views over Windermere. With a big playground at the start, dog-friendly paths, and that proper “mini fell” feeling, it’s the perfect Lake District adventure for families and beginners.

Stock Ghyll Force Ambleside
We’ve done our fair share of waterfall walks in the Lake District, but this one really stood out – not because it’s the biggest or hardest to find, but because it’s just so accessible and magical for such a short walk.
If you ever find yourself in Ambleside, don’t miss the chance to visit Stock Ghyll Force. It’s tucked away behind the town and feels like a proper woodland escape… without needing to climb a mountain to get there!

Derwent Water & Friars Crag
Large car park at Lakeside car park postcode CA12 5DG .
Take a walk along the shores of Derwent water taking in the beautiful scenery of the surrounding fells including the iconic Catbells leading to the picturesque Friars Crag with one of the lake districts well known benches with amazing views.
Take a boat trip at Keswick Launch Co.
Lots to see and do at this location.

Bowder Stone
Take a lovely short walk to the Bowder Stone one of the most famous rocks in the Lake District. It weighs 2000 tonnes and it balances all by itself. Do you dare climb to the top ?
In the Borrowdale valley a short drive from Keswick there is a large National trust car park at CA12 5XA.

Aira Force
This is a must visit place for anyone who loves chasing waterfalls. There is a large National Trust carpark CA11 0JS. How many waterfalls can you spot? This can be turned in to a circular walk which is easy to navigate by the well marked Paths.

Brothers Water
Brothers Water, situated in the Lake District near Patterdale, Cumbria, CA11 0NZ, is a serene and picturesque small lake. Known for its tranquil beauty, it offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in a quintessentially English landscape.

Rydal Caves
Explore Rydal Cave – a short, fun walk from White Moss Car Park with lake views, stepping stones, and hidden secrets. Great for families, children and dogs. A Lake District must-do!
Follow Our Socials
Join the Outdoor Exploring Family. Follow @OutdoorExploringFamily on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook for daily inspiration and real family days out. Share your moments with #OutdoorExploringFamily.