Where high ground meets deep calm — a region of peaks, valleys, and timeless routes.
North West England is where the Lake District’s iconic fells rise above wooded valleys, mirror-still lakes, and stone-built villages. From the rugged heights of the Langdales to the quiet dales around Sedbergh, this is a region shaped by centuries of footsteps — and one of the UK’s most inspiring destinations for walking holidays.
This is walking at its most atmospheric. Follow a stone path above Grasmere, wander beside Buttermere, explore the quiet folds of the Forest of Bowland, or trace riverside paths through the western Yorkshire Dales. From mountain passes to gentle valley trails, every step reveals something new: a glimpse of sky in water, a sheepfold on a slope, or the hush of wind across heather.
But the North West is also a region rich in outdoor adventures. Think wild swimming in cold-clear tarns, canoeing on Windermere or Coniston, scrambling over rocky ridgelines, or exploring nature reserves where woodlands and waterfalls meet. The landscapes here invite movement — slow, thoughtful, and deeply connected.
Beyond walking, the area is perfect for cycling holidays, with scenic lanes through the Eden Valley, quiet roads around Bowland, and gentle routes linking market towns like Ambleside, Keswick, Grasmere, and Settle. Whether on foot or on two wheels, you’ll find routes for every pace and season.
And when the day slows, North West England offers independent places to stay close to its trails, lakes, and valleys. Choose from cosy inns, lakeside B&Bs, rural cottages, walkers’ cafés with rooms, or pubs sitting at the foot of classic fells — ideal bases for exploring both the famous routes and the quiet corners.
England’s most famous walking landscape. Climb Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, or Catbells, or take gentler paths along Derwentwater, Grasmere, or Tarn Hows. For a deeper route through valleys, market towns, and upland farms, walk the Cumbria Way — a 73-mile trail from Ulverston to Carlisle.
The western Dales edge into the North West with sweeping ridges, limestone scars, and classic English countryside. Explore Malham Cove, Dentdale, or the bookish town of Sedbergh. Discover a patchwork of drystone walls, riverside walks, and pubs tucked into timeless villages.
A quieter corner of upland England. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is full of remote moorland, heather hills, and wooded cloughs. Walk peaceful trails from places like Slaidburn, Chipping, or Dunsop Bridge, and enjoy the solitude of this hidden gem between the Lakes and the Dales.
North West England offers a deeper kind of journey — one of elevation and stillness, heritage and quiet power. Walk slowly, and let the landscape speak.
The Cumbria Way and Dales High Way are standout routes. The Cumbria Way runs through the heart of the Lake District, while the Dales High Way links Saltaire to Appleby-in-Westmorland via moorland and limestone ridges.
Yes. The region is full of scenic short walks — try Tarn Hows, Buttermere Circuit, or Malham Cove. Many villages have waymarked paths and routes linking to fells, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
Absolutely. The terrain is varied but well-marked, with excellent local transport, welcoming stays, and hundreds of routes. It's perfect for travelling at your own pace.
Yes — go wild swimming in mountain tarns, cycle quiet lanes in the Eden Valley, or try paddling on lakes like Windermere and Coniston. The area is rich in multi-day, multi-activity potential.
You’ll find cosy inns, guesthouses, rural cottages, lakeside B&Bs, and walker-friendly pubs. Many are located directly on trails or near major walking hubs like Ambleside, Keswick, and Settle.
