Bowness Bootprints: Family-Friendly Walks Around Windermere
Bowness-on-Windermere, with its bustling lakefront and charming village atmosphere, is a fantastic base for family adventures. Beyond the ice cream parlours and boat trips, a network of trails offers delightful walks perfect for little legs and big imaginations. Here are three (or four!) of our favourite family-friendly walks around Bowness:
The Glebe and Cockshott Point (Easy, Approx. 2 Miles)
This classic Bowness stroll is perfect for a gentle introduction to the area. Starting from the bustling Glebe Park, with its playground and views across the lake, this flat, accessible path follows the shoreline towards Cockshott Point.
- What to expect – a paved, level path ideal for pushchairs and little walkers. Stunning panoramic views of Windermere and the surrounding fells. Plenty of opportunities for stone skimming and duck feeding.
- Family fun – spotting the Windermere steamers coming and going, exploring the small beach at Cockshott Point, and enjoying a picnic overlooking the lake.
- Tips – pack a picnic and enjoy the views from the benches along the path. Allow extra time for playtime at the Glebe Park playground.
Orrest Head Viewpoint (Moderate, Approx. 2.5 Miles)
For a slightly more challenging walk with a rewarding view, Orrest Head is a must-do. This was Alfred Wainwright’s first Lakeland fell, and it’s easy to see why he fell in love with the area from this vantage point.
- What to expect – a well-marked, uphill path through woodland, with some steeper sections. The summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Windermere and the surrounding fells.
- Family fun – feeling a sense of achievement reaching the summit, identifying the different fells from the viewpoint, and taking memorable family photos.
- Tips – wear sturdy shoes as the path can be uneven in places. Take your time on the uphill sections. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the summit.
Brant Fell (Moderate, Approx. 3 Miles)
Another fantastic viewpoint walk, Brant Fell is less well known than Orrest Head, offering a more tranquil experience.
- What to expect – a mix of woodland trails and open fellside, with some moderate inclines. The summit rewards you with panoramic vistas of Windermere and the Langdale Pikes.
- Family fun – exploring the varied terrain, spotting wildlife in the woodland, and enjoying the relative peace and quiet compared to Orrest Head.
- Tips – follow the signposted paths carefully. The route can be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear. Pack layers as the weather can change quickly on the fell.
A Circular Walk via Queen Adelaide’s Hill and Post Knott (Moderate, Approx. 4 Miles)
For a longer walk with a variety of scenery, this circular route takes you through woodland, up to Queen Adelaide’s Hill, and then onto Post Knott.
- What to expect – a mix of woodland paths, open fellside, and some road walking. Queen Adelaide’s Hill offers lovely views of Windermere. Post Knott provides excellent views of the lake and surrounding fells.
- Family Fun – the variety of scenery keeps everyone engaged. Post Knott is a great spot for a picnic.
- Tips – this walk involves some road walking, so keep children close. The route can be muddy in places.
General Tips for Family Adventures
- Check the weather forecast before you go as Lakeland weather can change quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Allow plenty of time for your walk. Little legs tire easily, and you’ll want to stop and enjoy the views.
- Take a map or use a GPS app.
- Most importantly, have fun!
Bowness-on-Windermere offers a fantastic range of walks for families of all ages and abilities. So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories in the heart of the Lake District.
Photo by Richard Sutcliffe on Unsplash
