Lake District Hiking Tours

The Lake District

Highlights
  • Hike in the footsteps of William Wordsworth along Lake District hikes that inspired his poetry.
  • Hike through dramatic mountain passes with sweeping views over Ullswater, Windermere, & Derwentwater.
  • Visit charming villages like Grasmere and Keswick, with cozy pubs and tearooms to relax after your walks.
  • Discover famous landmarks like Orrest Head, a favorite of Alfred Wainwright, offering spectacular vistas.
  • Enjoy lakeside tranquility or summit steep fells—the choice is yours.

Explore the iconic Lake District National Park in England’s northwest, an awe-inspiring region of rugged peaks, serene valleys, and sparkling lakes that has inspired poets, artists, and nature lovers for generations. Our Lake District walking and hiking tours offer self-guided adventures across this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with hand-picked accommodations, detailed routes, and convenient luggage transfers, so all you have to focus on is the journey.

Choosing the right itinerary depends on your interests and fitness level. For relaxed exploration, consider Lake District walking holidays like the Heart of the Lake District, featuring easy walks and cozy inns. The Lake District Trail offers a mix of scenic routes and cultural highlights, while seasoned hikers will love the rugged terrain of the Lake District Round. Whether you're seeking a standalone journey or combining it with other favorite UK trails like the Coast to Coast crossing the country or the Dales Way connecting to Yorkshire, there’s an adventure waiting for you.

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Discover The Lake District

  • Lights, Camera, Action in the Lake District!

    It's not just the team here at Macs Adventure who think the Lake District is a pretty inspiring place to be! Quite a few film-makers think that's the case too and have decided to film their movies here. Look closely whilst you are out walking and you may recognize scenes from the following;

    Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning part 1 - Tom Cruise paraglides down to Buttermere. 

    Star Wars VII The Force Awakens - this blockbuster movie used the breath-taking Derwentwater in some of it's dramatic battle scenes to create the planet of Takodana and Skiddaw peak can be seen clearly in the background. The leading star of the movie, Rey, says when she arrives in the Lake District (or Takodana!) "I didn’t know there was so much green in the whole galaxy” - a sentiment you may also feel whilst walking in the Lake District!

    Peter Rabbit - The famous children's writer Beatrix Potter is almost synonymous with the Lake District. She owned several properties and farms in the Lake District, bred Herdwick Sheep and was a passionate supporter of the National Trust. Her most successful story, Peter Rabbit was first published in 1901 and in 2018 it was turned into a film starring James Corden and Margot Robbie. Just like the books, the filming locations for this were all around Ambleside and Windermere

    Tommy -  Filming for this 1970's cult classic took place in the Borrowdale Valley, and also near Wainwright's favorite, Haystacks. 

    Miss Potter - Yew Tree Farm in Coniston was the star of the show in this 2006 film about the life of Beatrix Potter starring Renée Zellweger. Once owned by Beatrix Potter, it is the scene of her home Hill Top in the film. 

    Lights, Camera, Action in the Lake District!
  • Lake District Walking FAQs

    When is the best time to visit the Lake District for hiking?
    Spring and early autumn are ideal and personal favorite for the Macs team, with mild weather and blooming landscapes. Summer is also popular, though busier. Be prepared for rain anytime—it’s part of the Lake District charm!

    Do you need hiking boots for the Lake District?
    Yes, we strongly recommend sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for navigating rocky paths, muddy trails, and steep ascents.

    Where to stay in the Lake District for hiking?
    Our tours feature hand-picked accommodations in villages like Ambleside, Keswick, and Grasmere, offering easy access to top trails and local amenities.

    What are the trails like?
    You’ll find a variety of terrain from rocky, mountainous trails to boggy sections to gentle lakeside and woodland paths. Most routes include a mix of ascents and descents.

    How fit do I need to be?
    Our tours range from Easy to Moderate in the Lake District. For more information, refer to the “Is it for me?” section of the tour page to learn more about activity levels and fitness needs. 

    Will there be places to eat on the walks?
    Depending on the walk, you may pass a small village with a cafe or tearoom. There are other days where the walk will take you into the fells where there are no facilities. On those days you will be able to pick up a packed lunch from your accommodation or the village shop. Our Macs App will provide details for each day to help you prepare.  

    Lake District Walking FAQs
  • Top Tips for the Lake District Hiking Holiday
    • Pack smart: Waterproofs, layers, and sturdy boots are must-haves.
    • Enjoy local treats: Don’t miss Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread or a sugar boost from Kendal Mint Cake.
    • Take to the water: Relax with a boat ride on Windermere or Ullswater for a new perspective of the lakes.
    Top Tips for the Lake District Hiking Holiday
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