Skip to content
Book direct for the best rates and property selection

WALKING & CYCLING GUIDES

tarn and fell circular,
on foot.

A moderate walk of 6 miles from Grasmere, with long views and plenty of places to stop.

A PLACE TO ROAM

big views.
unhurried miles.

This walk starts near Grasmere and covers about 6 miles. Allow 3.5 hours at an easy pace, and more if you stop for the view.

It is graded moderate, so it suits most visitors with sensible kit. Paths can be wet after rain, so boots are a good idea.

the start

Begin in Grasmere, where you will find parking, a café and a clear signed start.

the middle

The route opens out here with the best of the views. A bench with a view makes a good pause.

the finish

Return the same way or make a loop, and finish with something to eat nearby.

START HERE

three ways to enjoy the walk

A first look at what the tarn and fell circular has to offer.

The viewpoint · Grasmere

a view worth the effort

The best views on the tarn and fell circular come about halfway along. Take a moment and look back the way you came.

The water · Grasmere

beside the water

Part of the route follows the shore, with places to sit and watch the boats and birds.

The finish · Grasmere

a good place to end

A café, a pub or a quiet bench: plenty of choices close to the finish.

THE ROUTE

the tarn and fell circular, your way

Choose the length that suits your day. These are starting points, not turn-by-turn directions.

THE SHORT VERSION

From Grasmere · Allow 3 hours

A shorter out-and-back that keeps to the easiest ground and the best views.

THE FULL ROUTE

From Grasmere · Allow 3.5 hours

The whole 6 miles at a steady pace, with time to stop along the way.

THE LONG WAY ROUND

From Grasmere · Choose your own distance

Add loops and detours to make a longer day. Check the map before you set off.

Times are approximate. Boots, a waterproof and an offline map.

discover the charm of grasmere

A LITTLE INSPIRATION

a weekend walking in grasmere

A gentle Friday-to-Sunday plan. Move things around with the weather.

FRIDAY

arrive & unwind

Morning

Arrive, unpack and stretch your legs nearby.

Afternoon

Pick up supplies and look at the route for tomorrow.

Evening

Supper close to your base and an early night.

SATURDAY

the main walk

Morning

Start early on the tarn and fell circular.

Afternoon

Stop for lunch at the halfway point.

Evening

A long soak and a quiet evening in.

SUNDAY

one last lovely detour

Morning

A short, easy outing before you leave.

Afternoon

A final café stop in the village.

Evening

Leave a little margin for the journey home.

AROUND THE TABLE

good food. even better company.

A few places to refuel, from a first coffee to a proper supper.

Coffee & a slow start

The village café

Grasmere

Strong coffee and fresh baking before you set off.

Lunch on the go

The village shop

Grasmere

Pies, sandwiches and cake to carry.

A well-earned drink

The local inn

Grasmere

Local ales and a warm fire at the end of the day.

Make an evening of it

The country house

Grasmere

A special supper. Book ahead and plan your journey back.

DISCOVER GRASMERE WITH TOGETHER TRAVEL CO

enjoy unforgettable escapes
in the beautiful lake district,

Our holiday homes near Grasmere put the trails on your doorstep. Stay a little longer and try them all.

BEFORE YOU GO

a little planning.
a lot more ease.

A few practical notes to help you get the most from the trail.

Getting there

The start is a short drive from the village, with a regular bus along the main road.

Parking

There is pay and display parking at the start. Arrive early at weekends.

Choosing your season

Spring and early autumn give the clearest days and the quietest paths.

What to bring

Boots, a waterproof and an offline map.

Access, families & dogs

Check the route notes for gradients and surfaces. Keep dogs under control near livestock.

Leave the Lakes as you found them

Use marked routes, close gates and take litter home. In an emergency call 999.

Stay in touch

follow us on
instagram


honest, transparent hospitality shaped by experience, delivering exactly what we promise