Easy hikes and walks around Shap Rural
4.6
(7603)
72,067
hikers
542
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Shap Rural are characterized by diverse and tranquil landscapes within the eastern Lake District National Park. The region features the quiet Shap Fells, offering classic hill-walking routes and a sense of solitude. Water features such as Haweswater Reservoir and Blea Water provide peaceful settings for lakeside walks, while numerous streams like the River Lowther meander through valleys. To the east, limestone landscapes with rocky outcrops and pavements are present.
Best easy hiking trails around Shap Rural
…Last updated: May 19, 2026
3.7
(3)
17
hikers
5.04km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
4.23km
01:30
250m
250m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
18
hikers
4.70km
01:18
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
57
hikers
3.22km
01:08
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
4.68km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This is the view of Rough Crag on the way up to High Street. A classic Lake District ridge. Its rugged spine rises sharply above Haweswater.
0
0
Mardale Waters Top 416.4m P11.9 (1366ft) (Hill ID: 511630) [JNSA s5011] Lake District National Park Definitive List summit. County of Westmorland Definitive List summit.
0
0
Conservation is a big part of the area. RSPB and United Waters have joined forces to offers a good habitat to peregrine falcons, redstarts, and ring ouzels as a few examples of the bird-species and ensuring that the forest offers a good nesting and foraging ground for red squirrels. A donation cairn, to support the RSPB’s work at Wild Haweswater, is situated in the car park. They suggest a donation of £2, but any amount large or small is gratefully received. Please note that only cash donations can be made in the cairn as the lack of mobile phone reception means they are unable to take card payments. However, if you wish to send an online donation to support their work, you can do so here. There is also a Mountain Rescue cairn in the car park, you are kindly encourage you to support their life-saving work if you feel able to.
0
0
Great spot for a wild swim when bagging Wainwrights in the Far Eastern Fell as it is on the way to Mardale Ill Bell and High Street. It is sheltered and there is a small beach which is ideal for a picnic. It is quieter than many of the tarns in the Lake District and we had it to ourselves on a Saturday. But be prepared for cold water, even on a hot summer's day as it is 510 meters (1,673 feet) above sea level. It feeds into Haweswater via Small Water Beck.
0
0
The name "Fairy Crag" may refer to a local belief in fairies in times gone by. Old Westmorland has a strong tradition of fairy myths associated with water. For example, fairies are said to prefer fast-flowing streams and rivers and it was said that stone footbridges over mountain streams - in the right conditions - are good places to see fairies. Source: https://www.edenriverstrust.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Shap.pdf Even for those who do not believe in those myths (undoubtedly a small minority ;-)), this is an enchantingly beautiful place, for which I think the word "fairy" was invented.
0
0
Blea Water is a gorgeous pool nestled in a huge glacially-carved combe beneath Mardale Ill Bell, High Street and Long Side. It has the distinction of being the Lake District's deepest tarn, at over 200 feet (61 m) deep. You can reach the tarn from Mardale Head or by descending from High Street's excellent Long Stile ridge.
0
0
Mardale Head is an excellent starting point for many grand adventures in the Far Eastern Fells of the Lake District. From here, trails splay out onto the likes of High Street, the Kentmere Horseshoe summits and tranquil Branstree and Selside Pike. There was once a hamlet near here called Mardale Green, which was submerged when the reservoir was created in the 1930s to supply water to Greater Manchester. When the water is low, the remains of the village can still be seen – a ghostly sight.
1
0
OK, not quite official, but the tent saved us here. This really is the end of the world here. Lonely but beautiful and quiet.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Shap Rural?
Shap Rural offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 140 easy trails to explore. The region features quiet fells, serene reservoirs, and limestone outcrops, providing diverse landscapes for accessible and gentle paths.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Shap Rural?
Yes, Shap Rural has several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Chippy Chippy – The Goggleby Stone loop from Shap is a gentle 3.1-mile path that passes by the notable Goggleby Stone, offering an engaging walk for all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes around Shap Rural?
Easy hikes in Shap Rural showcase diverse natural beauty. You can explore the tranquil Shap Fells, enjoy peaceful lakeside walks around Haweswater Reservoir or Blea Water, and discover limestone landscapes with rocky outcrops. Many routes also feature streams and becks, such as the River Lowther, creating picturesque scenes.
Are there any easy routes that pass by waterfalls?
While the immediate easy routes in Shap Rural may not directly feature major waterfalls, the broader area is known for its water features. You can find highlights like Aira Force and Aira Beck Waterfalls nearby, which can be incorporated into a day trip or explored separately. These are often accessible via their own easy trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Shap Rural?
The easy trails in Shap Rural are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquility of the Cumbrian countryside, the sense of solitude on the Shap Fells, and the diverse, accessible landscapes that offer a peaceful escape.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes in Shap Rural?
Yes, many easy trails in Shap Rural are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Mardale Head – Castle Crags loop from Branstree, which provides scenic views, and the Mardale Head – Blea Water loop from Branstree, leading through a beautiful water area.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Shap Rural?
The duration for easy hikes in Shap Rural varies, but many can be completed within a few hours. For example, the Mardale Head – Castle Crags loop typically takes about 1 hour 43 minutes, while the Mardale Head – Blea Water loop is often completed in around 1 hour 30 minutes.
Can I find parking near the trailheads for easy walks?
Many popular trailheads in Shap Rural, especially those leading to easy routes, offer parking facilities. For instance, routes starting from Branstree or Shap often have accessible parking options nearby, making it convenient to begin your hike.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to see on easy hikes?
Yes, you can combine natural beauty with historical exploration. Shap Abbey, a historic 12th-century abbey, can be incorporated into scenic walks. While not directly on every easy trail, its proximity allows for a blend of hiking and cultural discovery.
What is the best time of year for easy hiking in Shap Rural?
Shap Rural offers enjoyable hiking year-round, but the best time depends on your preference. Spring and summer bring vibrant greenery and milder weather, ideal for leisurely walks. Autumn provides stunning colors, while winter offers a unique, tranquil experience, though some paths may require more caution due to conditions.
Are there any easy routes that offer views of the fells?
Absolutely. Many easy routes provide excellent views of the surrounding fells. The Mardale Head – Castle Crags loop from Branstree is a prime example, offering expansive vistas of the fells without requiring strenuous climbing.
Are there any easy trails that pass by lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, several easy trails in Shap Rural offer peaceful settings around water bodies. The Mardale Head – Blea Water loop from Branstree takes you through the Blea Water area, and other routes provide views of Haweswater Reservoir, perfect for tranquil lakeside strolls.
Most popular routes around Shap Rural
Most popular attractions around Shap Rural
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
