The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Windermere
4.6
(6007)
46,252
hikers
35
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Windermere are set within the Lake District National Park, a region defined by England's largest natural lake, Windermere, and its surrounding fells, woodlands, and forests. The landscape features a mix of rugged volcanic terrain in the north and gentler fells to the south, shaped by glacial activity. Hikers can expect diverse paths ranging from lakeside strolls to ascents of prominent hills, offering varied elevation and scenery. The area provides a network of trails suitable for…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.8
(394)
2,224
hikers
10.9km
03:40
530m
540m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(70)
715
hikers
8.92km
02:58
410m
410m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(19)
333
hikers
8.36km
02:53
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(30)
366
hikers
12.3km
03:34
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
132
hikers
9.34km
03:04
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Troutbeck Tongue sits at 364 metres (1,194 feet) and is a super nice Wainwright fell that has a commanding position in the Troutbeck Valley. It is dwarfed by Froswick, III Bell and Yoke to the east. There is a small cairn of stones marking the summit, and from here you have fantastic views down the Troutbeck Valley. I am glad I came down to the summit from Froswick, where there is a gradual uphill to the top, as the hike up directly from the valley looks quite brutal.
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Not far from Sour Howes is Sallows at a slightly higher elevation of 516 metres (1,693 feet). The summit is marked by a linear, rocky, grassy mound. There is also an OS plate nearby, but it is mounted at floor level so you will need to look for it.
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Sour Howes, which reaches a height of 483 metres (1,585 feet), sits between Troutbeck and Kentmere. I wish I could say something positive about the views here, but today the weather was typically British, and for the first half of the walk we didn't see anything. A persistent drizzle spoilt the view but not the walk. There are good trails up from Troutbeck village and for most of the ridge all away to Froswick. There's not much on top of the summit of Sour Howes, there is a number of grassy mounds and knolls with a pile of small stones marking the highest point.
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Baystones (Wansfell) Summit is a great little Wainwright to do from Ambleside. Don't mistake it for Wansfell Pike's top further along the ridge and closer to Ambleside. This is the official Wainwright summit and a great one at that. It might be only 486 metres high, but I managed to have a 600-metre hike day out of it with all the ups and downs. A great Wainwright with great views towards Kirkstone Pass and most of the Fairfield Horseshoe. All in all it is a super nice walk.
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Plenty of places to grab some food and buy some hiking gear or shoes for your doggo
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I got here to start the Kentmere Horseshoe on a Friday at 8am. There were already 3 or 4 cars on the side of the road where there is an outlined road parking lines. So any later turning up, you're going to struggle. But there is parking just before the church too.
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A picturesque hut thats normally got sheep roaming about the bridge too.
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No real trig on this one. But if you had clesr skies, you'd have cracking views 360
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are there around Windermere?
You'll find over 30 dog-friendly hiking trails around Windermere, offering a variety of experiences for you and your four-legged companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging fell walks.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Windermere?
The best times for hiking with your dog in Windermere are spring (April-June) when wildflowers are in bloom, and autumn (September-November) for vibrant foliage. The Lake District's microclimate is generally milder than surrounding areas, making these seasons particularly pleasant.
Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all abilities or older dogs?
Yes, Windermere offers several easy dog-friendly walks. For a gentle, scenic circular walk, consider Gummer's How, which provides fabulous views up Windermere and towards Morecambe Bay with less than 400 feet of climbing. Another excellent option is the picturesque Tarn Hows, known for its gentle, scenic circular route.
Can I find moderate dog-friendly hikes with good views around Windermere?
Absolutely. Many moderate dog-friendly hikes offer stunning vistas. The Wansfell Pike summit loop from Jesus Church is a great choice, rewarding walkers with breathtaking views of Windermere, Ambleside, and the surrounding valleys. Another option is the View of Windermere – Trout Beck Bridge loop from Windermere School, which also provides excellent scenery.
Are there any challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced walkers?
For those seeking a more challenging adventure with their dog, Windermere has options. While not explicitly listed as 'difficult' in our selection, routes like the Wansfell Pike summit loop involve significant elevation gain and can be quite demanding, offering a good workout for both you and your canine companion.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along dog-friendly trails in Windermere?
The dog-friendly trails around Windermere are rich with natural beauty. You can encounter stunning viewpoints like Loughrigg Fell summit and Brant Fell, offering expansive views of the lake and fells. The area is characterized by its magnificent mountains, fells, woodlands, and the impressive Lake Windermere itself.
Are there circular dog walks available in Windermere?
Yes, many dog-friendly routes in Windermere are circular, allowing for varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Wansfell Pike summit loop from Jesus Church and the Sour Howes – Sallows Summit loop from Jesus Church, both offering rewarding circular experiences.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly hiking in Windermere?
The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly hiking in Windermere, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rugged fells to serene woodlands, and the breathtaking views of Lake Windermere and its surrounding mountains. The variety of trails catering to different abilities is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any dog-friendly trails accessible by public transport in Windermere?
Windermere is well-connected, and several trails are accessible from the main town, which has a train station. For example, the short, well-marked hike to Orrest Head is easily accessible from Windermere train station and offers stunning views, making it a convenient option for those relying on public transport.
Can I find dog-friendly walks that explore forested areas?
Yes, Windermere offers beautiful forested areas perfect for dog walks. Grizedale Forest, for instance, features a network of trails through a beautiful forested landscape with views of the lake and fells, providing ample shade and varied terrain for you and your dog to explore.
Are there any specific considerations for dog owners when hiking in Windermere?
When hiking with your dog in Windermere, it's important to be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season, and keep your dog on a lead where necessary. Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer routes, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the Lake District can be unpredictable.
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