South Windermere Walks

The southern end of Windermere is a gentler, greener side of the Lake District. Wooded knolls and low fells rise above England's largest natural lake. The country here is quieter than the honeypots further north, and ideal for families, first-time fell walkers and anyone after a big view without a big climb.

Why walk here

The star walk is Gummer's How. The car park already sits at around 200 metres, so a short climb of little more than 130 metres brings you to a summit trig point with a view down almost the entire length of Windermere. Alfred Wainwright included it in The Outlying Fells of Lakeland and was fond of it. It makes a perfect first summit for young children.

The lake shore and surrounding woods offer plenty of easy extensions. Fell Foot, the National Trust's lakeside park at the foot of the lake, has lawns, boathouses and a café. The tarn at High Dam above Finsthwaite makes a peaceful woodland stroll.

Getting there and around

This area is best explored by car, though services along the A590 stop at Newby Bridge and Windermere Lake Cruises boats call at Lakeside. The heritage Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway runs steam trains along the River Leven and connects with the boats at Lakeside, so a car-free day out combining train, boat and a short walk is possible in season. The Gummer's How car park is small and free, and fills quickly on fine weekends.

Where to base yourself

Newby Bridge has hotels and a riverside pub, and there are holiday parks and cottages around the southern lake. Bowness and Windermere town, further north, have the widest range of accommodation and restaurants. They are well placed for both this area and the central Lakes.

When to visit

These low fells are good all year. Summer mornings are best at Gummer's How, before the small car park fills. Autumn brings fine colour to the woods, and on still winter mornings mist often fills the valley below the summit. Stone steps can be icy in a hard frost.

More to explore

Ulverston and the Furness peninsula are a short drive west. See our Ulverston & Furness guide for the Hoad Hill walk. Coniston, Tarn Hows and Grizedale Forest are covered in our Coniston & Hawkshead guide. Families will find more ideas among our family-friendly walks.