Windermere to Townend Walk

This is a circular walk that begins and ends at Windermere railway station, and the mapped route here is the full return-to-station version at 8.0 miles (12.8 km). That figure follows the official visitor distance, while the mapped geometry reads a little longer because of connecting ways and a duplicated section near the station. Allow 2 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes, with 4.5 hours a sensible planning estimate for a relaxed pace with stops.

From the station the path climbs to Orrest Head for the early payoff of far-reaching views, then descends toward Causeway Farm and continues by Crosses Farm, Far Orrest Farm and Dubbs Road. Cross the A592 with care, cross Trout Beck by footbridge, and arrive at Townend at the crossroads. The return leaves Townend through Troutbeck village and past the post office, takes the longer line over Garburn Road and Dubbs Road past Dubbs Reservoir, meets Moorhowe Road, then passes Near Orrest Farm and rejoins Causeway Farm and Orrest Head for the final descent. A separate 4.0-mile (6.4 km) short option is also published for walkers who want a reduced version, but it is a different, shorter itinerary and not the route described above.

The grade is moderate. Footing shifts between field paths, lanes and rocky fell tracks, with rough ground and steep inclines on the return and one notably steep climb toward the end. Stiles and gates appear throughout. The higher tracks around Garburn and Dubbs are open and offer little shade or shelter, so wind and sun are both felt more strongly there. The Orrest Head section close to the station is an easy and well-known viewpoint climb, so it generally carries more foot traffic than the quieter middle and upper stretches.

Recurring hazards are country-road crossings, including the A592, along with stiles, gates, rocky tracks, steep inclines and the steep climb near the finish. Dogs are welcome under close supervision and should be kept on leads in fields because of livestock. The start is Windermere railway station (grid ref SD414985, LA23 1AH), reachable by train and frequent bus, with pay-and-display parking at the station and further parking in Windermere and Bowness.