Exploring the Lake District
We love to explore the whole of the Lake District when we stay at Dunkeld Cottage and Windermere is an absolute beauty. It’s the largest natural lake in England and very popular with tourists. That said, if you go out of season and head out into the fells, you can be rewarded with stunning views and relative privacy – always a good combination!
Orrest Head, Windermere – Approximately 25 minutes to the top
We love Orrest Head in Windermere – it’s perfect for one of those days when a long hike just isn’t on the agenda. It could be done on your way up to the northern lakes, or just on a day when you fancy being rewarded with some stunning views but don’t feel like exerting too much effort! This walk can be for all the family to enjoy, provided you have a reasonable level of fitness.
To Start the Walk
The start of the walk is easy to find as it’s on the A591 and just before you get to Windermere station. There is a layby on your right hand side and off season you will hopefully be able to park up there. If not, you can always try parking in the village of Windermere and walking up – finishing off with a mooch around town afterwards. There are two ways up to Orrest Head but the way we’ve photographed is the first one you get to if you’ve driven from the M6 and goes via Common Wood – do check out an OS map, I use a mobile app and for £19.99 a year I have access to all the footpaths and maps of the UK – well worth it I believe!
The route is very easy to follow, well signposted and climbs quickly up to stunning views. The only bit where you could go wrong really is in Common Wood – you need to look out for the turning to your left where you go through a little gap in the slate wall and walk up to the viewpoint.
The Views are Fantastic
I hope you enjoy the views as much as we did!
Happy Lake Districting,
Chloe xx