Walking and Rambling in Hawkshead
Overview
If you're planning on staying at YHA Hawkshead, why not download a free map and get out exploring?
All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Hawkshead village
Explore the historic village of Hawkshead
Easy route (PDF,1MB)
3.2 miles, takes 1h 15m - 2h 15m
Tarn Hows
This walk heads to Tarn Hows before passing through picturesque Hawkshead
Moderate route (PDF, 1.3MB)
7.2 miles, takes 3h 30m - 5h 30m
Grizedale Forest & Carron Crag
A walk through the stunning Grizedale Forest with fantastic viewpoints
Challenging route (PDF, 1.5MB)
12.8 miles, takes 6h 15m - 10h
All our walking routes are tried and tested to help you explore this beautiful part of England. To assist with route selection and planning, you’ll also find a description of the hazards and facilities, accessibility information and points of interest on the maps
What makes it special
- Explore the local area at your own pace
- Tried and tested walking routes with detailed instructions
- Points of interest highlighted along the way
Useful guides
Want to understand more about our maps or develop your walking skills? Here are some useful guides we have created to help you to prepare for your chosen walk
Hostels nearby
Other things to do nearby
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Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
Situated in the pretty Lake District village of Hawkshead, the Grammar School Museum tells the story of school life since its founding in 1585.
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Cycling around Hawkshead
YHA Hawkshead is a fantastic location for road and mountain bikers, be they novice, families or experienced.Grizedale ForestThe forest is a mecca for mountain bikers in the north west and YHA Hawkshea
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Mountain biking in Hawkshead
Set off down the bridleway from the back of the hostel to join Grizedale forest which offers hundreds of different routes for mountain bikers of all abilities.
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Watersports in Hawkshead
Only five miles from Windermere, you can try your hand at anything from a lake cruise through to wind surfing, kayaking and canoeing. If you feel the need for speed you can even hire a power boat.
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Brockhole Visitor Centre
Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. See the house first created by William Gaddum, a silk merchant from Manchester, as his family's 'summer house'. Brows
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Hill Top (Beatrix Potter)
Full of her favourite things, the house looks like Beatrix has just stepped out for a walk. Don't miss the lovely cottage garden.
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Windermere Jetty Museum
Come rain or shine the museum offers a welcoming space to spend time with friends and family.
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Windermere Lake Cruises
The spectacular voyage gives you views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and the delightful wooded islands.
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Watersports in Windermere
Enjoy an afternoon on England's largest natural lake. There's a watersports centre on the shore of Windermere, only three miles from the hostel.
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The World of Beatrix Potter
Take a walk through Miss Potter's famous tales, complete with animatronics and walk-through scenes from her stories. Don't forget to exit through the gift shop!
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Tom Ghyll Waterfalls
Tom Ghyll (or Gill) is a lovely stream with two waterfalls. A trail runs alongside the stream and the path then leads up to Tarn Hows.Start at the Car Park on the A593 by Glen Mary Bridge.
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Cycling in Windermere
The best cycling is out of season when there's less traffic. There's an endless variety of cycling routes from quiet lanes to high mountain passes.
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Lake Windermere
At over 10 miles long, the picturesque ribbon lake Windermere acts as an irresistible magnet at the heart of the Lake District.
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Mountain biking in Ambleside
With Claife Heights right opposite, the hostel is a perfect base for exploring the area by mountain bike.
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Watersports in Ambleside
The Lake District was made for wild swimming and with this hostel right on the edge of England's largest lake, Windermere, it would be rude not to.
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Ambleside Climbing Wall
Here at Ambleside Climbing Wall there's an indoor climbing wall, bouldering room, and cafe. There's also a room dedicated to climbing gear, which can be hired.
