National Trails That Pass Through the Lake District
The Lake District is a walker’s paradise — home to rugged fells, sparkling lakes, and some of the most iconic long-distance trails in Britain. Whether you’re looking to cross the country, follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright, or enjoy a coastal wander, several national and long-distance routes pass through or alongside the Lake District National Park.
Here’s a detailed look at the main trails that connect this incredible region, along with a few lesser-known routes that are perfect for training, exploration, or simply enjoying the landscape.
1. Coast to Coast Path (National Trail)
Few walks are as iconic as the Coast to Coast Path. Devised by Alfred Wainwright in 1973, this legendary route stretches from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast all the way to Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea. It crosses three national parks — the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors — offering an ever-changing panorama of England’s finest scenery.
The Lake District section is arguably the most dramatic part of the entire route. Starting on the Irish Sea cliffs at St Bees, walkers soon head inland towards Ennerdale, Borrowdale, Grasmere, and Patterdale — a journey through some of the park’s most celebrated valleys and fells.
For anyone training for serious mountain challenges, this section is perfect. It combines big ascents and descents with long days and mixed terrain, ideal for building endurance, strength, and mental grit.
2. The Pennine Way
Britain’s first official National Trail, the Pennine Way runs for 268 miles from the Peak District all the way to the Scottish Borders. Although the main route doesn’t cross directly through the heart of the Lake District, its western sections pass close to the Cumbrian fells, particularly around the Eden Valley and the North Pennines.
These upland areas offer remote moorland terrain, wide horizons, and solitude — all of which mirror the conditions you’ll encounter on the higher Lake District ridges. It’s a great way to experience long-distance hiking in wild country and to develop the endurance required for multi-day expeditions.
3. King Charles III England Coast Path (North-West Section)
The England Coast Path is an ambitious project to create a continuous walking trail around the entire coastline of England. The North-West section runs along the Cumbrian coast, skirting the western edge of the Lake District National Park.
This route offers something quite different to the mountain trails — dramatic sea cliffs, salt marshes, and vast beaches. It’s also home to rich wildlife, coastal villages, and historical landmarks. For those living or training in the Lakes, it provides a gentler alternative to high-level walking and makes for excellent recovery or endurance days without heavy climbing.
4. The Dales Way
Although not an official National Trail, the Dales Way is one of the UK’s best-loved long-distance walks. It runs for roughly 80 miles from Ilkley in West Yorkshire to Bowness-on-Windermere, finishing right in the Lake District.
This trail is lower-level than most mountain routes, following river valleys and rolling countryside, but it’s still a fantastic way to cover long distances under your own steam. The final stretch into the Lakes gives you a perfect warm-up for more demanding fell walks, and the route itself links seamlessly with local paths around Windermere and Ambleside.
5. Ullswater Way
The Ullswater Way is a 20-mile circular route that loops around one of the Lake District’s most picturesque lakes. It’s not a National Trail, but it’s an ideal option for a full-day hike. The path passes through woodlands, lake shores, waterfalls, and small hamlets, offering ever-changing views of the surrounding fells.
Because it’s circular and well waymarked, it’s perfect for those looking to test long-day pacing, carry a training pack, or simply enjoy a classic Lakeland landscape. For visitors, it’s also one of the most accessible ways to experience the diversity of the National Park.
6. How These Trails Fit Together
Each of these trails brings something unique to the Lake District experience:
The Coast to Coast Path challenges you with serious climbs and legendary landscapes.
The Pennine Way offers wild solitude and endurance training in moorland terrain.
The England Coast Path adds variety and recovery opportunities with its low-level coastal scenery.
The Dales Way is ideal for valley walking and covering big miles without the elevation of the central fells.
The Ullswater Way delivers a compact but immersive loop for day-long adventures.
Together, they showcase the full spectrum of what the Lake District and surrounding regions have to offer — from sea cliffs to summits, forests to moors.
7. Practical Tips for Walking in the Lakes
Navigation: Even on well-trodden trails, weather in the Lakes can change fast. Always carry a map, compass, and GPS backup.
Accommodation and Supplies: Plan ahead, especially in quieter valleys where food and accommodation options are limited.
Seasonal Conditions: Expect snow and ice on higher fells in winter and heavy rain at any time of year. Spring and early autumn often give the best balance of conditions.
Dog-Friendly Options: Many of these trails — particularly the coastal and valley routes — are excellent for walking with dogs. Just be mindful of livestock and follow local signage.
Photography and Content: Each route provides incredible opportunities for photos and video — from sunrise on the Coast to Coast ridges to sunset over the Irish Sea.
Final Thoughts
The Lake District is more than just a cluster of mountains — it’s a crossroads of some of Britain’s greatest walking routes. From national trails to local classics, the variety of landscapes means you can train, explore, or simply enjoy the outdoors in countless ways.