Walking the Dales and Lakes: A Guide to England’s Most Inspiring Landscapes
Few places in Britain can match the raw beauty and walking opportunities of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. These two National Parks, both located in Northern England, offer some of the most dramatic and soul-stirring scenery in the country. Whether you’re after a quiet riverside stroll, a challenging ridge walk, or a climb to a high fell, these landscapes provide something for every kind of walker.
Let’s explore what makes walking in these two regions so exceptional—and how to make the most of your next adventure on foot.
Why Walk in the Yorkshire Dales?
The Yorkshire Dales are defined by rolling green hills, dry stone walls, hidden caves, and friendly villages with tea rooms that feel like they’ve been there forever. It’s a place where life slows down, and walking becomes both a journey and a meditation.
Classic Dales Walks
1. Malham Cove, Gordale Scar & Janet’s Foss
This circular walk blends natural wonder with geological intrigue. Malham Cove’s limestone amphitheatre, sculpted by Ice Age meltwater, is awe-inspiring. From there, climb up the limestone pavement, wander past the cascading Janet’s Foss, and peer into the dramatic chasm of Gordale Scar.
2. Ingleborough from Clapham
One of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Ingleborough is famous for its flat summit and expansive views. The walk from Clapham passes through the atmospheric Trow Gill gorge and by the cave system of Gaping Gill—a chance to witness the Dales’ subterranean secrets.
3. The Swaledale Meander
For a gentler day out, walk the riverside paths between Reeth and Keld. It’s rich in wildflowers in spring and summer, with traditional stone barns dotting the landscape and barely another soul in sight.
Walking in the Lake District: Wild, Rugged and Romantic
The Lake District is a land of contrasts: deep lakes hemmed in by steep-sided fells, mossy woods, and exposed ridgelines that stretch to the horizon. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a wilder, more dramatic experience than the Dales.
Iconic Walks in the Lakes
1. Helvellyn via Striding Edge
One of Britain’s most famous ridge walks, this is for the bold-hearted. The narrow path of Striding Edge offers thrilling scrambles and panoramic views, leading to the summit of Helvellyn, the third-highest peak in the Lakes.
2. Buttermere Circular
For something gentler, the walk around Buttermere Lake is a peaceful, picturesque loop that takes you along shoreline paths and through ancient woodland. The reflections on a still day are nothing short of magical.
3. The Old Man of Coniston
A classic fell walk, this route combines historical interest (with old slate mines along the way) and stunning views of Coniston Water. It’s a moderately challenging climb with high reward.
Tips for Walking in the Dales and Lakes
- Prepare for Weather: Both regions are known for their changeable weather. Always bring waterproofs, even on a sunny day.
- Map & Compass Skills Matter: Especially in the Lake District, where mists can descend quickly. OS Explorer maps are a must.
- Respect the Landscape: Stick to marked paths, close gates, and follow the Countryside Code.
- Support Local: Pop into village shops, cafés, and pubs. They’re part of the walking experience and help sustain these rural communities.
- Go Off-Peak: Consider walking early or outside of summer holidays. You’ll find quieter paths and even more room to breathe.
A Walk for Every Mood
There’s a unique rhythm to walking in the Dales and Lakes. It’s not just about covering distance—it’s about connecting with the land. In the Dales, that might mean pausing to watch a curlew take flight across a quiet moor, or chatting with a farmer leaning on a gate. In the Lakes, it’s the silence at the top of a peak, broken only by the cry of a raven or the whistle of the wind.
Whether you’re chasing summits or seeking solitude, there’s a walk waiting for you. Just lace up your boots and head out—the path is already there.
Author’s Note:
As a long-time walker and hill-goer in northern England, I’ve come to believe that the Dales and Lakes offer more than scenery—they offer space for reflection, recovery, and joy. If you’re new to walking or returning after time away, start small and see where your feet take you. The hills will always be waiting.