The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Tarn Hows
4.6
(13169)
111,975
hikers
939
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Tarn Hows are set within the Lake District National Park, characterized by a picturesque tarn surrounded by wooded hills and conifer forests. The area features gentle terrain around the tarn, with more moderate ascents leading to panoramic fell views of iconic peaks like the Langdale Pikes. Tom Gill waterfall adds a natural attraction, cascading through diverse woodlands that provide shaded paths. This landscape offers a blend of accessible paths and varied walking opportunities for families.
…Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.7
(47)
543
hikers
3.19km
00:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(33)
88
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(41)
222
hikers
9.48km
02:41
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(43)
362
hikers
12.1km
03:40
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(15)
66
hikers
9.42km
02:42
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Black Fell (or Black Crag) is a 323-metre (1,056-foot) Wainwright that is often accessed from Tarn Hows. However, if you want a quick ascent, you park at the Cathedral Cave car park on the A593, this will give you a quick up-and-down option. It is a great little fell with its trig-pointed summit giving you great views of Windermere and the surrounding hills.
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"Doors Open" during our visit and well worth it.
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Large car park - which can be paid for with card. You will need your card.
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Thanks for sharing such great information, I highly appreciate your hard-working skills as the post you published have some great information which is quite beneficial for me, I hope you will post more like that in the future https://www.marykayintouches.com
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A walk around Tarn Hows will give you views of the lake from different places. And you will always discover new things on the lake.
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According to an age-old tradition, you can make a wish if you leave a coin at such a tree. Because people have a lot to wish for, several trees are now full of coins. According to an article by the BBC, the idea originated in Scotland around 1700. There, people thought that if you hammered a coin into a tree trunk, you could be cured of the illness you were suffering from at the time. Of course, something like that is always worth a try. (Mixed Grill)
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The actual summit is over the wall from the trig point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Tarn Hows?
Tarn Hows offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 300 easy routes suitable for families. In total, there are nearly 1000 hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging excursions.
Are the trails around Tarn Hows suitable for pushchairs or young children?
Yes, the most popular route, the Around Tarn Hows circular walk, is well-surfaced and largely accessible, making it ideal for pushchairs and young children. It's approximately 3.2 km (2 miles) long and offers continuous scenic views.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking around Tarn Hows?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning landscapes, the accessibility of the main circular path, and the beautiful views of the tarn and surrounding fells. The tranquil setting and diverse woodlands are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any waterfalls to see on family hikes in Tarn Hows?
Absolutely! The Tarn Hows, Tom Gill & Tom Heights loop is an excellent choice for families wanting to see waterfalls. This 4.5 km (2.8 miles) route incorporates Tom Gill, a fast-flowing stream that cascades over several spectacular waterfalls into Glen Mary.
What kind of views can we expect on family hikes around Tarn Hows?
Hikers are treated to majestic mountain views, including the iconic Langdale Pikes, Coniston Old Man, Wetherlam, and the Helvellyn range. The main circular path offers continuous views of the picturesque tarn, while routes like the Tarn Hows – Black Crag loop provide expansive vistas of Coniston Water and Windermere from higher viewpoints.
Can we spot any wildlife while hiking with family?
Yes, the diverse woodlands and tranquil tarn are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, otters, and hares. You'll also likely see rare Belted Galloway cattle and sturdy Herdwick sheep grazing peacefully by the tarn.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Tarn Hows is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs on a lead, especially around grazing animals like the Belted Galloway cattle and Herdwick sheep. Always follow local signage and ensure your dog is under control.
Where can we park when visiting Tarn Hows with family?
There is a National Trust car park conveniently located at Tarn Hows. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is recommended, especially if you're visiting on a weekend or during school holidays.
Are there picnic spots available for families?
Yes, the area around Tarn Hows offers many beautiful spots perfect for a family picnic. The shores of the tarn and the surrounding woodlands provide idyllic settings to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
What's the best time of year to visit Tarn Hows with family?
Tarn Hows is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers longer days for leisurely walks. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and potential snow. The well-surfaced paths make it accessible in most conditions.
Are there cafes or pubs nearby for families after a hike?
While there are no cafes directly at Tarn Hows, the nearby villages of Coniston and Hawkshead offer family-friendly cafes and pubs where you can refuel after your hike. Coniston village, in particular, is just a short drive away and provides a good selection of eateries.
How long do the family-friendly walks typically take?
The most popular family-friendly walk, the Around Tarn Hows circular route, takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour to complete at a leisurely pace, covering about 3.2 km (2 miles). Other routes, like the Tarn Hows, Tom Gill & Tom Heights loop, are around 4.5 km (2.8 miles) and might take 1.5 to 2 hours.
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