The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Derwent

There are over 80 family-friendly hiking trails around Derwent, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. You'll find a good mix, with 31 easy and 38 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every family's ability.

The Derwent area offers incredibly diverse terrain. You can expect everything from gentle lakeside paths around Derwentwater and the reservoirs, to woodland trails, and more open moorland with gritstone formations in the Peak District. Some routes, like those near Cat Bells, offer moderate climbs with rewarding views, while others, such as sections of the Derwent Walk, follow former railway lines providing easy, flat surfaces.

Yes, there are several easy, circular options. The Derwent Valley and Reservoir Walk is a moderate 7.1 km route that offers pleasant paths. For very easy, stroller-friendly options, consider the Waterside Way along Derwent Reservoir's shoreline, which provides well-maintained paths and panoramic views. The Derwent Walk in County Durham also has many sections with easy walking surfaces.

The Derwent area is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. In the Peak District, you can explore the impressive Mam Tor, the historic Derwent Dam, and the unique gritstone formations along Derwent Edge. Near Derwentwater in the Lake District, iconic fells like Cat Bells offer stunning views. The Derwent Walk in the North East features the scenic Nine Arches Viaduct and the transformed landscape of Derwenthaugh Park.

Many trails in the Derwent area are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for families with pets. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, and to check specific route details for any restrictions. The Waterside Way around Derwent Reservoir and many paths around Derwentwater are popular choices for dog walkers.

Spring and summer offer mild weather and vibrant landscapes, with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making them ideal for family outings. Autumn provides stunning foliage colors, particularly along the Derwent Walk. While winter can be beautiful, some higher routes may be more challenging due to weather conditions, so stick to lower-level paths and reservoirs during colder months.

Absolutely! For breathtaking views, consider routes that ascend to higher ground. The Derwent Reservoir, Back Tor & Derwent Edge loop offers fantastic vistas from the gritstone edges. In the Lake District, trails up Cat Bells provide iconic panoramic views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. The Trig point at Win Hill summit is another excellent spot for expansive scenery.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many popular trails. For routes around the Derwent and Ladybower Reservoirs in the Peak District, Fairholmes Visitor Centre often provides parking facilities. For trails around Derwentwater in the Lake District, there are various car parks in and around Keswick and along the lakeside. Always check specific route information for recommended parking locations, as some smaller trailheads might have limited spaces.

The komoot community highly rates the Derwent area, with an average score of 4.63 stars from over 1600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of trails suitable for different ages, and the well-maintained paths, especially around the reservoirs. The combination of water features, woodlands, and dramatic landscapes makes it a consistently enjoyable destination for families.

Yes, the Derwent area has a rich history. The Derwent Dam, located in the Upper Derwent Valley, is a significant historical landmark, famous for its role in the Dambusters raids during WWII. The Derwent Walk in the North East follows a former railway line, offering glimpses into the region's industrial past. You can also find remnants of old mining operations, such as Odin Mine, near some Peak District trails.

While popular spots like Derwentwater and the main reservoir paths can get busy, exploring some of the slightly longer or less-known routes can offer a quieter experience. Consider trails that venture a little further into the Borrowdale Valley in the Lake District, or explore the varied paths within Derwenthaugh Park in the North East. Early mornings or weekdays are also great for avoiding crowds on popular routes.

The diverse habitats around Derwent support a variety of wildlife. Along the rivers and reservoirs, you might spot otters, water voles, and various bird species like herons and red kites. In the moorland areas of the Peak District, look out for golden plover and mountain hares. Deer and foxes are also present in the woodlands and valleys across the region.