Easy climbs, classic views, and confidence-boosting summits
The Lake District might be home to England’s highest peaks, but it’s also a brilliant place to start your fellwalking journey. Not every summit requires scrambling, stamina, or specialist kit — and there are plenty of beginner-friendly fells that offer big views with manageable climbs.
If you’re just starting out, here are six fells you’ll love — chosen for their accessibility, good paths, and rewarding scenery.
1. Latrigg (368 m)
- Start Point: Keswick or Gale Road
- Distance: ~6.5 km from Keswick (shorter from car park)
- Why you’ll love it: One of the easiest Wainwrights with one of the best views — looking straight down onto Derwentwater. There’s even an accessible path to the summit from Gale Road, making it ideal for new walkers and families.
2. Walla Crag (379 m)
- Start Point: Keswick
- Distance: ~6.5 km loop
- Why you’ll love it: A gentle climb through woodland and along open fellside to a craggy perch above Derwentwater. The summit is modest, but the view is classic Lake District — mountains, lake, and woodland all in one sweep.
3. Orrest Head (239 m)
- Start Point: Windermere station
- Distance: ~3 km return
- Why you’ll love it: This short walk rewards you with a panorama that famously inspired Wainwright’s lifelong love of the fells. Great for first-timers, families, or those arriving by train. Clear signage and an easy gradient make it ultra-accessible.
4. Hallin Fell (388 m)
- Start Point: St Peter’s Church, Martindale
- Distance: ~1.5 km return
- Why you’ll love it: Possibly the easiest Wainwright to tick off. A short climb on grassy paths leads to wide views over Ullswater — plus there’s a prominent summit cairn that makes it feel like a proper peak.
5. Catbells (451 m)
- Start Point: Hawes End or Nichol End
- Distance: ~5.5 km circular
- Why you’ll love it: Often a beginner’s first “real fell”, Catbells has a short, sharp pull to a narrow ridge with mild scrambling and full-on views. Popular for good reason — best tackled early or midweek to avoid the crowds.
6. Gummer’s How (321 m)
- Start Point: Gummer’s How car park, near Fell Foot
- Distance: ~2 km return
- Why you’ll love it: A mini mountain overlooking Windermere. The short trail to the summit packs in forest, open fell, and a commanding view of England’s largest lake. Ideal for a sunset or family stroll.
Beginner Fellwalking Tips
Footwear matters – Even small fells can be boggy or rocky. Wear good walking shoes or boots.
Use OS Explorer OL maps – Especially OL4, OL5, and OL7 for these routes.
Check the weather – Conditions can change quickly. MWIS or Met Office mountain forecasts are your friends.
Start early – Popular beginner routes (like Catbells) fill up fast.
Bring layers – Windproofs, a warm top, and water are essential, even on short walks.
The Lake District is the perfect classroom for new fellwalkers — offering safe, scenic climbs that build confidence without cutting corners on views. Start with these six, and you’ll be hooked in no time.
Photo credit: Priyanka Rangi
