Todd Crag walk Ambleside
The view from Todd Crag looking over Windermere.
Todd Crag Walk from Ambleside (via Lily Tarn)
Some walks just make you smile the whole way and for us, Todd Crag is one of them. It’s short enough for little legs, full of variety, and the view from the top… well, it’s one of the best in the Lake District.
We’ve done this route loads of times with our boys (and Buster 🐾), and it never gets old. It might not be a Wainwright, but it has that same fell-top feeling making it a brilliant easy Wainwright alternative and one of the best things to do in Ambleside with children.
Walk at a glance
📍 Start/Finish: Miller Bridge Car Park, Ambleside (LA22 0EE)
🚶 Distance: ~3.4 miles (there & back)
⏱ Time: 1.5–2 hours (longer with kids or picnic stops)
🗺 Route map: Todd Crag walk via Lily Tarn – Hiiker Map
👟 Terrain: Clear paths, one short steep lane, rocky tops
🐕 Dog friendly: Yes but keep close near summit edges & sheep
🧒 Family friendly: Big playground at the start, picnic spots, and a fun “mini Wainwright” feel
Starting in Ambleside
We usually park at Miller Bridge car park. It’s big and central, so no faff finding a space. From there, it’s straight through Rothay Park which is brilliant because the kids make a beeline for the huge playground before we even start walking. There are toilets at the top of the park too, which is always handy.
Through the park and onto the fells
As you walk through the park, you’ll pass the Turning Point sculpture a big circle of stones that always gets a “what’s this for?” from our boys. Out the bottom, turn right, cross the bridge, then right again for a short stretch on the road. A sharp left up a steep little lane takes you up past the houses, and then suddenly you’re stepping into the open fells.
This is the bit where it feels like a proper adventure. The views open up straight away, and even though Ambleside is only minutes behind you, it already feels like you’ve escaped into the wild.
A pause at Lily Tarn
Not far along, you reach Lily Tarn one of our favourite spots. It’s peaceful, tucked away, and there’s even a little bench if you’re lucky. We usually stop here for a snack (the boys throw stones, Buster splashes in, and we try to just enjoy the peace!).
It’s also a great place to get kids involved with navigation there are little side paths here and it’s a safe spot to practise using a paper map.
The final push to Todd Crag
From Lily Tarn, look left towards the rocky tops that’s Todd Crag. The path is pretty obvious, though it splits a bit, so just keep heading for the crags. Before long you’re standing on the summit, and that’s when the big “wow” moment hits.
You can see the whole of Windermere stretched out below, tiny boats dotted on the water, Ambleside’s rooftops behind you, and the fells rolling away into the distance. For such a small hill, the view is massive. We always end up sitting here for ages, just soaking it all in.
Heading back down
The return is simple — retrace your steps back past Lily Tarn and Rothay Park. If the kids still have energy (ours usually do, somehow), another blast in the playground is a perfect finish.
Why we think Todd Crag is special
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It feels like a mini Wainwright even though it’s not on the official list.
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It’s one of the best family walks in the Lake District short, fun, and packed with variety.
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It’s a brilliant dog friendly walk near Ambleside.
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The view is one of the best in the Lakes, hands down.
Tips for families
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Footwear: boots are best, especially after rain.
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Safety: Keep little ones and dogs close near the summit edges.
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Navigation: Carry a map — fun for kids and handy with the side paths.
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Snacks: Lily Tarn and the summit are both perfect picnic spots.
FAQs
Is Todd Crag a Wainwright?
No — but it feels like one. You get the rocky top, the views, and the sense of achievement without the big climb.
How long does it take?
We usually allow 1.5–2 hours, but with playground stops, snacks, and photo breaks, it can easily turn into half a day.
Is it good for kids?
Definitely. Our boys (11 & 12) love it, and it would be fine for younger ones too. There’s enough variety to keep them interested.
Is it dog friendly?
Yes — Buster loves it. Just keep them close near sheep and drops.
Where are the toilets?
At the top of Rothay Park in Ambleside.
What’s nearby?
Ambleside itself — full of great cafés, shops, and other easy walks. Perfect if you’re making a day of it.
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