Put a spring in your step with a free volunteer-led guided walk

The ever-popular Lake District National Park Authority free volunteer-led guided walks have launched for 2023, just in time for the spring holidays.

There is a wide variety of easy to medium level walks available, all in small groups of up to 20 people, and led by welcoming and cheery volunteers. The walks will take place on selected dates, throughout the spring and summer, right through until October.

Lake District National Park Authority Volunteer Team Leader, Kath Jackson said: “We are so lucky to have such a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers who are extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about all aspects of Lake District walking.

“This year, we hope that we have a free guided walk that suits everyone. Most of our routes are suitable for well-behaved dogs on leads, and there are walks that are suitable for all the family and those with limited mobility.

“We are here to help, so if anyone is thinking about booking a guided walk but is unsure, please get in touch and we can help. We can offer advice on suitable footwear, clothing, and give information on the route's terrain so that you are prepared before you come along.

“We want to boost people’s confidence through these guided walks and our volunteers give as much route information as they can. They can also offer help and advice on planning and enjoying your own walks in the Lake District and the skills and knowledge you should develop before venturing out by yourself.”

High Dam Hike

This is a moderate grade walk that starts by visiting High Dam, which powered the Stott Park Bobbin Mill. Learn about how local industry and farming produced a working cultural landscape. From here the walk ascends Rusland Heights with excellent views over the Rusland Valley before descending to return via ancient woods and fields and Finsthwaite village with its Grade II listed church, St Peter's.

Tilberthwaite to Holme Fell walk

Beginning at Tilberthwaite Quarry car park, the walk starts with a chance to discover a surprising piece of public art by Andy Goldsworthy before moving on to see the impressive Hodge Close quarry. The route then takes in Man Crag with excellent views of the area and Holme Fell.

Buttermere Bluebell walk

And, during the season, the volunteers also guide a walk in Buttermere that visits the Secret Valley of the Bluebells.

This delightful route begins with a walk to the southern end of Crummock Water, after which it follows a green path uphill before descending steeply to meet a path which leads to the valley of the bluebells. After spending time admiring the bluebells, the walk continues up hill to reach the highest point of the walk, which offers magnificent views of the Buttermere Valley. From there, the route follows wide green paths back down to Buttermere Village.

To find out more about any of the walks and to book please visit Guided Walks : Lake District National Park.