The best hikes from bus stations around Patterdale

There are over 70 hiking trails in the Patterdale area that you can start directly from a bus station. This guide features 73 such routes, offering a wide variety of options for car-free adventures.

The bus station hikes around Patterdale cater to all skill levels. You'll find 16 easy routes perfect for a gentle stroll, 35 moderate trails for a more engaging experience, and 22 difficult hikes for those seeking a challenging ascent into the fells.

Yes, Patterdale is an excellent starting point for challenging high-level fell walks. For instance, you can tackle the iconic Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale, which offers thrilling ridgeline walking and panoramic views. Another demanding option is The Deepdale Horseshoe from Patterdale, a classic circuit through the Deepdale valley.

Absolutely. While specific family-friendly routes aren't detailed here, Patterdale offers many gentler walks in the valleys and along Ullswater that are suitable for families. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' in this guide, which often feature less elevation and shorter distances.

Many trails in the Lake District are dog-friendly, and the Patterdale area is no exception. While specific rules may apply in certain areas (e.g., livestock grazing), generally, dogs are welcome on leads. Always be mindful of local signage and keep dogs under close control, especially near farm animals. The valley walks and lakeside paths are often good choices for walks with dogs.

Patterdale's bus station hikes offer access to stunning natural features. You can explore dramatic fells like Helvellyn, St Sunday Crag, and Place Fell, which provide superb views over Ullswater. Many routes will also take you past tranquil tarns such as Angle Tarn and Brothers Water. For breathtaking vistas, consider routes that lead to Helvellyn Summit or Catstye Cam.

Yes, the Patterdale area is home to beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on every bus route, some trails may lead you towards notable cascades. For example, Aira Force, a famous waterfall, is located nearby and offers walks through woodland. Other highlights include Aira Beck Waterfalls and High Force Waterfall, Gowbarrow Fell.

Yes, many of the hikes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. Examples include the challenging Deepdale Horseshoe and the moderate Angletarn Pikes – Angle Tarn loop, both starting from Patterdale.

The Patterdale area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic landscapes, the less crowded experience compared to other Lake District towns, and the diverse range of trails from gentle lakeside walks to challenging fell ascents. The stunning views across Ullswater and the surrounding fells are frequently highlighted.

Patterdale offers year-round hiking opportunities, but the best time largely depends on your preference. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Summer is popular for longer daylight hours and warmer weather, though trails can be busier. Winter offers a dramatic, often snow-covered landscape for experienced hikers, but requires appropriate gear and caution due to challenging conditions on higher fells.

Certainly. A moderate route like the Angletarn Pikes – Angle Tarn loop from Patterdale provides a rewarding experience with significant elevation gain and stunning views of the surrounding fells and tarns. Another option is the Brothers Water – Angle Tarn loop from Caudale Moor, which also offers beautiful scenery.