Hawkshead Trail - Lake District National Park

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Home Hawkshead Trail

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

2 hours

Distance

4.49km / 2.79miles

Hawkshead Trail

A route on bridleways and minor roads connecting Hawkshead with Wray Castle. It is mostly on gravel surfaces with one short but steep section.

Start: Hawkshead Village

Distance: 4.49km / 2.79miles

Getting there: Regular buses to Hawkshead from Ambleside and Coniston. Bike hire is available in Hawkshead, see link below. If driving park in Hawkshead Village Car Park

The route is well waymarked, follow the signs to Hawkshead Trail, see photos.

Follow the bridleway to Loanthwaite Lane. Turn left here and follow this road for 25om, although a quiet road there may be traffic so look out. Turn right to follow the bridleway towards Outgate, but turn sharp right just before Outgate and follow the track to Blelham tarn, a lovely place to take in the views and maybe spot a few water birds.

Continue on the bridleway following the signs to Wray Castle. At Wray Castle you can look round this historic building, now in the care of National Trust or enjoy refreshments in the tea room.

You can return to Hawkshead the same way, follow the minor roads past High Wray, or extend your ride by joining up the Windermere West Shore trail.

Waymarking on the route

A fingerpost on a trail in Hawkshead

Fingerpost

A miles without stiles sign

The first and last part of the trail are also Miles without Stiles accessible routes

Hawkshead Trail waymarker

The route is waymarked with Hawkshead Trail signs

Wray Castle

Wray Castle at the end of your route is in the care of the National Trust and is above the shores of Windermere.