Low Wood Bay to Troutbeck Circular Walk: An Easy Pub Walk with Stunning Lake Views

An easy pub walk with stunning views of Windermere and cafe pitstops

Start: Low Wood Bay (free parking if eating in the pub)

Distance: 3.8 miles

,Elevation: 700 feet

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate (non-technical paths, some elevation)

Navigation: Follow step-by-step on OS Maps, or download GPX file

About the route

If you're anything like me, you'll know that not every great walk has to involve scaling a mountain. Sometimes, all you need is a couple of hours, incredible views and a great pub waiting at the end.

That's exactly what you'll get on this 3.7-mile circular walk from Low Wood Bay. Part of the Pint Sized Walks collection by Ordnance Survey and Thatchers, this route is proof that shorter walks can still deliver big on the views. Think stunning views over Windermere, a coffee stop in the charming village of Troutbeck, peaceful woodland trails alongside Hol Beck and a lakeside pub waiting for you at the finish.

If you're looking for an easy Lake District walk that ticks all the boxes, this one definitely deserves a spot on your list.

Route difficulty: Easy

This short pub walk is a brilliant option if you're looking for a gentler route in the Lake District.

Although there's around 700ft of elevation, it's spread gradually across the route, so there aren't any particularly steep climbs. Most of the paths are easy to walk, although they can become muddy after wet weather, so I'd recommend wearing walking boots or sturdy trail shoes.

Starting from Low Wood Bay, the route gently climbs above Windermere, where you'll be treated to beautiful views across the lake almost straight away.

Is this walk suitable for beginners?

Absolutely.

If you're new to hiking or simply don't fancy tackling one of the Lake District's bigger fells, this walk is a great alternative. You'll still enjoy some incredible scenery without committing to a full day's hike, following easy, non-technical paths, gradual ascents, and lots of places to stop and take in the views.

Route specifics

From here, you'll follow a mixture of quiet country lanes and grassy footpaths, with the scenery constantly changing between open countryside and breathtaking lake views. It's one of those walks where the effort is minimal, but the reward is huge.

Around halfway round, you'll arrive in the picturesque village of Troutbeck. With its traditional stone cottages and cosy cafés, it's the perfect excuse to stop for a coffee and slice of cake before continuing your walk.

Leaving the village behind, the route heads into peaceful woodland alongside Hol Beck. The shady trails make a lovely contrast to the open views earlier in the walk, before leading you back towards the shores of Windermere.

Finish back at Low Wood Bay, where you can grab some food at one of the restaurants (or head to the cosy pub like we did), and enjoy an ice-cold Thatchers overlooking the lake. I can't think of a much better way to end a walk.

Route highlights

• Incredible views across Windermere for much of the route

• An easy walk that's suitable for most abilities

• Coffee and cake stop in the beautiful village of Troutbeck

• Peaceful woodland trails alongside Hol Beck

• A lakeside pub waiting for you at the finish

When's the best time to do this walk?

This route is beautiful all year round.

Visit in spring for fresh greenery, summer for long evenings overlooking Windermere, autumn for colourful woodland and winter for crisp, clear views across the lake.

For the quietest experience, I'd recommend heading out on a weekday or setting off early in the morning, or time with sunset for golden hour views across Windermere.

Is this route for me?

One of the best things about this route is that you get all the beauty of the Lake District without needing to tackle one of the area's bigger fells.

This walk is ideal if you:

• Love beautiful lake views without a challenging climb

• Enjoy stopping for coffee and cake in pretty villages

• Are looking for a shorter walk that's easy to fit into your day

• Like peaceful woodland trails and quiet countryside

• Appreciate finishing a walk with a great pub and a well-earned pint

With just 700ft of elevation spread across 3.7 miles, it's suitable for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The paths are generally easy to follow, although you'll encounter a mix of country lanes, grassy footpaths and woodland trails, which can become muddy after wet weather.

Things to do nearby

If you're making a day of it, there are plenty of other great places to explore nearby.

• Explore Ambleside – Just a five-minute drive away, this bustling Lake District town is packed with independent shops, cafés and traditional pubs.

• Visit Wray Castle – A beautiful lakeside Victorian castle with walking trails, picnic spots and stunning views across Windermere.

• Walk to Stock Ghyll Force – One of the Lake District's most impressive waterfalls, just a short walk from the centre of Ambleside.

• Hire a paddleboard or kayak – Head out onto Windermere and experience England's largest lake from the water.

• Take a Windermere Lake Cruise – If you'd rather sit back and enjoy the scenery, hop aboard one of the lake cruises that run between Ambleside, Bowness and Lakeside.

Getting to the starting point

By car

The walk starts from Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, located on the A591 between Ambleside and Windermere. It's around a 5-minute drive from Ambleside and 10 minutes from Windermere.

Parking is available at Low Wood Bay (free if you’re stopping for food), although it's worth checking availability during busy periods.

By public transport

The nearest train station is Windermere, with regular direct services from Manchester, Preston and Oxenholme Lake District.

From Windermere station, you can catch the 555, 599 or Stagecoach 6 bus towards Ambleside or Keswick, all of which stop close to Low Wood Bay. From the bus stop, it's just a short walk to the start of the route.

If you're already staying in Ambleside or Windermere, you can also reach Low Wood Bay on foot or by bus, making this an easy walk to enjoy without a car.

✔️ Good to knows

• Distance: 3.7 miles

• Allow around two hours, plus extra time for coffee or lunch.

• Walking boots are recommended, especially after rain for the grass and wooded section.

• Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control around livestock.

• Don't forget your camera – the Windermere views are worth it!

🧭 Following the route

Leave Low Wood Bay and follow the route uphill, where you'll soon be rewarded with panoramic views across Windermere.

Continue towards Troutbeck village, where it's well worth stopping for a coffee before following the trail alongside Hol Beck through peaceful woodland.

The final section leads you back to Low Wood Bay, where you can round off the walk with food and a drink overlooking the lake.

Discover more Pint Sized Walks

This walk is part of the Pint Sized Walks collection by Ordnance Survey and Thatchers – a series of shorter walks across the UK that finish at some of the country's best pubs.

Whether you've only got a couple of hours to spare or you're simply looking for a more relaxed adventure, the collection is packed with scenic routes that prove you don't have to walk all day to enjoy the great outdoors. Find your nearest here.

SCENIC LAKE DISTRICT WALK: EXPLORE CLAIFE VIEWING STATION AND WINDERMERE WEST SHORE

Experience the best of the Lake District on this easygoing walk, featuring serene lakeside views, fascinating historic landmarks, and charming local cafés.

Start: Ash Landing Car Park, LA22 0LU

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation: 425 feet

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy (with some moderate sections)

Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file

About the route

Looking for a relaxing yet picturesque walk in the Lake District? This 3-mile circular route starts at Ash Landing Car Park near popular Lake District landmark, Claife Viewing Station, before leading you along Windermere’s serene west shore. You’ll enjoy peaceful lake views, historical landmarks, and even have the chance to stop at some lovely cafés along the way.

Perfect for a short morning or afternoon adventure, the walk is mostly flat with gentle inclines, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo walkers.

Route difficulty

• Walk type: Easy with gentle elevation.

• Terrain: Well-maintained gravel and woodland paths.

• Accessibility: Some areas may be unsuitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

• Dog-Friendly: Yes, but dogs should be on leads near wildlife and busy areas.

Route highlights

Claife Viewing Station

Perched on a hill above Lake Windermere, this historic viewing platform dates back to the 18th century. The station offers panoramic views of Windermere, with colourful stained-glass panels that recreate how Victorian tourists once experienced the scenery.

Windermere West Shore

This tranquil lakeside path is a peaceful alternative to the busier eastern side of Windermere. With frequent benches along the way, it’s the perfect spot to pause and enjoy the views.

Joey's Café

Located near the Claife Viewing Station, Joey's Café serves up delicious coffee and cakes. It’s a great option for a pre-walk breakfast or a mid-route break.

Ferry House

At the end of the west shore path, you'll find Ferry House, the starting point for the historic Windermere Ferry crossing. From here, you can either return along the shore or extend your walk.

Caife Café

After completing your walk, reward yourself with a stop at Caife Café, offering locally sourced treats and excellent lakeside views.

Options to extend the route

Want to make it a longer adventure? Continue walking along the west shore to Wray Castle, adding approximately 4 miles (return) to your route. The additional walk remains relatively flat and offers more fantastic lakeside views, as well as the opportunity to explore the castle's grounds.

Getting to the starting point

By Car

Park at Ash Landing Car Park (LA22 0LU), located near the Claife Viewing Station. Parking charges apply.

By Public Transport

Take a train to Windermere, then catch a bus or taxi to the ferry terminal. From there, ride the Windermere Ferry across the lake and begin your walk at Ferry House.

✔️ Good to knows

• Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all levels.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes.

• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead in certain areas.

• Food & Drink: Joey's Café and Caife Café are both fantastic options for a pre or mid-walk refuel.

• Facilities: Public toilets available at Claife Viewing Station and Ferry House.

🧭 Following the route

I use komoot and OS Maps for offline navigation. To follow the full walk step-by-step on komoot, simply click this link here or download the GPX file and upload it to your chosen app, such as OS Maps.

MALHAM COVE, SHIRE

Looking for best walk in the Yorkshire Dales? Look no further…

Distance: 8.32 miles

Time: 2-4 hours

Ascent: 900 feet

Start: National Park Centre, Malham

Navigation link: follow the trail here

Feel like you might’ve accidentally clicked the wrong link?

As much as these images feel like another country entirely, they’re still very much within driving distance to our rainy city! This trail truly has it all: not one, but two fairytale-esque waterfalls (Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar), a hidden cave… and a cove that wouldn’t look out of place in Arizona… and a fairly flat route throughout!

A magnet for families and ramblers alike, Malham, North Yorkshire is home to so many enchating places to explore — that said, it can get pretty busy in the summer months, so if you’re after a less populated stroll, we’d recommend popping down during the week.

Unlike a lot of other waterfalls in the surrounding area, Gordale Scar allows walkers to discover its beauty without having to undertake a difficult climb en route.

Fancy a dip? Wild swimming has become immensely popular over the past year - and we couldn’t think of a better place to dip a toe in than this one!

All in all, if you’re looking for one of the best walks in the Yorkshire Dale’s — you’re sure to find it in Malham.

Follow the route step by step here — or if you fancy shortening the route, a quick pit stop to the National Park Centre will have you set.