Best Walks from Lonsdale House, Ulverston

Ulverston is a brilliant base for walkers. Step out of the front door and within minutes you can be climbing a hill, strolling along a canal or setting off on a long-distance trail. Here are a few of our favourites, from easy family strolls to full days on the fells. When you get back, our Boot Room in the basement is there for muddy boots, bikes and rucksacks.

Hoad Hill and the Sir John Barrow Monument

Easy to moderate, about an hour there and back. The monument on top of Hoad Hill, built to look like a lighthouse, is Ulverston's best-known landmark and honours local explorer Sir John Barrow. It's a short, steep climb from town, and the views over Morecambe Bay and across to the Lakeland fells are well worth the effort.

Ulverston Canal to Canal Foot

Easy and flat, about two hours there and back. Ulverston Canal runs for around a mile and a quarter from the edge of town to Canal Foot, where it meets the Leven estuary. It's a lovely, gentle walk for families and dogs, with big views across the bay and a pub waiting at the end.

Birkrigg Common and the stone circle

Moderate, allow two to three hours from Lonsdale House. Head south of town and climb gently onto Birkrigg Common, open grassland with sweeping views over Morecambe Bay. Look out for the small Bronze Age stone circle, sometimes called the Druids' Temple. If you'd rather save your legs, you can drive up and wander from there.

The Cumbria Way

A full day, or several. Ulverston is the official start of the Cumbria Way, a long-distance route of around 70 miles north through the Lake District to Carlisle. Even if you don't fancy the whole thing, the first stretch out of town towards Beacon Tarn makes a wonderful day out, with quiet paths and proper Lakeland scenery.

The Old Man of Coniston

Challenging, a full day, about 25 to 30 minutes' drive. For a classic fell walk, head to Coniston and climb the Old Man. The route passes old mine workings and the tarn at Low Water, and on a clear day the summit views stretch from the Lakeland peaks out to the sea.

Tarn Hows

Easy, about an hour's loop, around 35 to 40 minutes' drive. A gentle, mostly level path circles one of the prettiest tarns in the Lake District, surrounded by woodland and fells. It's a great choice for all ages and a perfect half-day out.

Before you set off

Lake District weather can change quickly, so pack a waterproof, wear good footwear and check the forecast before heading onto the fells. If you'd like more ideas, just ask us. We're always happy to share our favourite routes, and our Things to Do in Ulverston page has plenty more inspiration for days out.