Whether you are a British national or reside in a far away land, the English Lake District retains considerable appeal as a travel destination. As a location with diverse terrain and a host of attractions to suit travellers of all ages, it has become extremely popular among both international explorers and British citizens nationwide.
Above all else, however, the Lake District is renowned for its numerous walks and nature trails, which span for miles and take in every inch of the region's spectacular landscape. Even if you are not an experienced hiker, there is ample opportunity for you to explore the British countryside and develop a close affinity with nature.
With this in mind, it is worth considering the Lake District's most popular walking routes and the reasons for their enduring popularity. Keep the following in mind:
For experienced hikers, there is no greater challenge than mounting the summit of Scaffel Pile in Wasdale. Scaling an incredible 3209 feet, it is England's highest mountain and accessible to anyone with a good level of fitness and keen determination. While it is not be advised in adverse weather conditions, the mountain's peak will provide you with a wonderful view of the Wasdale Valley, with its rolling hills and lush green landscape.
Only slightly less intimidating than Scaffel Pike, Skiddaw is one of only six Lake District fells that scales more than 3000 feet. Traversing its steep terrain makes for a great day out, thanks primarily to the breathtaking views that it offers of Keswick and the picturesque Lake Derwentwater. You can even see as far as Borrowdale on a clear day, which remains one of the region's most fascinating market villages.
The second largest Lake District mountain, Helvellyn stands at a soaring 3117 feet and is famous for its beautiful twin ridges (Striding Edge and Swirral Edge). These visually stunning peaks were carved out by glacial action during the last ice age, and offer stunning views of the neighbouring Glen Ridding and Patterdale. Helvellyn is also famous for its rocky terrain and numerous sudden drops, so it is ideally suited to someone with considerable hiking experience and a great love of the outdoors. The route itself is approximately 8 miles long, however, so it makes for an excellent day out on the Lakes.
Not only does the sleepy, tranquil village of Coniston boast one of the region's most popular lakes, but it is also home to the towering Coniston Old Man. A 2634 foot mountain peak, it is established as one of the most recognisable Lake District fells and one that draws thousands of visitors from across the globe on an annual basis. The mountain's most popular trail takes you along the east side of the terrain, on a winding journey through old copper mines and slate quarries. The summit is particularly pleasing, as it offers outstanding views of Dow Caig and Goat's Hawse.
If you are looking for a smaller and less popular hiking trail, Blencathra in Keswick is the location for you. Standing in perfect isolation in the northeast in Keswick, it is not as renowned as neighbouring mountains and therefore draws fewer visitors from around the world. It also offers a relatively easy trail along the fell's east flank from Threkeld, which means that it is also suited to novice or inexperienced hikers. The infamous Sharp Edge is the most renowned aspect of the mountain, thanks to its sudden and steep drop.
This article was written by Mr. Jordan Lansdale, who is a keen travel enthusiast and blogger from the UK. To identify viable holiday accommodation for your trip to the Lake District, visit slparks.co.uk today.
