Hiking in the Lake District

Welcome to Keswick! This bustling market town enjoys a dress circle location on the shores of Derwentwater, surrounded by spectacular scenery. Its mountains and lakes are so incredible that Keswick is home to the UK’s premier mountain festival. After you’ve settled into your cosy accommodation – there’s no packing and unpacking to worry about on this centre-based trip - meet your leader in the early afternoon and kick off your Lake District hiking adventure with an easy round-trip hike. Latrigg Hill offers incredible views of Keswick town, Derwentwater and the surrounding fells, an Old Norse term that refers to mountains located above the endpoint of the alpine trees.

After a short transfer to the trailhead at the foot of the Derwent Fells, join your leader on the trail which climbs to Dalehead Tarn before a final ascent takes you to the summit of the aptly named High Spy which sits at 653 metres above sea level. Take time to admire the sweeping views, then follow the broad ridge north to Cat Bells, a favourite peak of British author and keen walker Alfred Wainwright. His seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells is still considered a definitive guide to the Lake District more than 65 years after it was written. From here, the group will follow the Cumbria Way back to Keswick where you may like to join your fellow walkers for a meal at one of the local restaurants or a cosy pub. (B)

Today we will hike one of the most dramatic stages of the famous Coast to Coast Trail, a long-distance footpath originally devised by Wainwright. It’s one of England’s most famous walks and one you don’t want to miss. Take in the stunning views on a scenic boat trip from Keswick across Derwentwater to the start of the trailhead. From here, we will walk through gorgeous Borrowdale to Rosthwaite, where we begin an ascent to Greenup Edge before descending through craggy Easdale Gill all the way to the charming village of Grasmere. Enjoy free time here as you choose to perhaps visit the home of William Wordsworth, or stock up on snacks at the famous gingerbread shop before we catch a local bus back to Keswick. (B)

Today is the pinnacle of your Lake District walking trip, the ascent of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England. This classic walk is famous for being part of the three peaks challenge and you will complete it with two guides who will share their expertise and give you the support and encouragement you need to finish your walking holiday on a natural high. If the weather is clear, you’ll be able to see mountain peaks as far away as Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man when you reach the top and enjoy tremendous views across the Lake District National Park. Tonight, enjoy a relaxing evening at your comfortable accommodation in Keswick. (B)

It’s an easy walking day today with a short morning hike to either Castlehead Viewpoint, or perhaps along the lake shoreline to the Centenary Stone. Looking across the still water here provides the opportunity to reflect on a wonderful few days hiking in the Lake District. After you’ve had time to enjoy the scenery, your walking adventure comes to an end. If you would like to spend more time in the Lake District, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). (B)