The Lake District has long been one of Britain’s most popular regions for ramblers – and with very good reason.

It offers a wide array of options for walking enthusiasts throughout the year, from the challenge of scaling the likes of Scaffell Peak and Skiddaw to taking a stroll around breathtaking lakes such as Bassenthwaite and Windermere.

The region caters for walkers of all ages and skill, and is also a fantastic option for a family holiday due to the number of festivals and events taking place throughout the grounds of the national park.

For example, June marks the beginning of the summer festival period in the region, with the Appleby Horse Fair kicking things off for a week at the beginning of the month. The Keswick Beer Festival is a traditional favourite for people visiting the Lake District and takes place in the early part of June, along with the Holker Garden Festival.

July is always the Lake District’s busiest period for events as the summer season attracts more visitors to the region than at any other time of the year. Highlights include the Lakeland Rose Show near Kendal in mid-July and the Barrow Walking Festival, which traditionally begins at the start of July. Meanwhile the Cumberland County Show is also a popular option for all ages.

August features events such as the Hawkshead Show at the end of the month and the Ambleside Flower Show, which runs over the weekend in the early stages of August.

One of the region’s most well-known event doesn’t come round until November. The Kendal Mountain Festival is Europe’s largest festival of its type and remains one of the leading social events for outdoor enthusiasts in the UK.

It is like the outdoor version of the Cannes film festival, as more than 50 movies are screened – many for the very first time – as they compete for prizes dished out by a judging panel.

Also, special art and book awards are also given out over the course of the three-day event, which runs in mid-November.  

For the more adventurous and experienced walkers, a crack at the famous Wainwright coast-to-coast route can also be partly completed in the Lake District. Devised by legendary rambler Alfred Wainwright, the walk is the longest unofficial footpath in the north of England as it stretches across the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

Although not for the fainthearted – the walk totals an estimated distance of 220 miles – it could be worth the effort, as the Wainwright Society website states that it was named the second-best walk in the world in a survey of experts in 2004.

Wainwright himself suggested that the walk be completed in stages over the course of a two-week break, so if you’re keen to add this accomplishment to your walking CV, a lengthy holiday may be required.

The Lake District is one of the country’s best options for a walking holiday at any time of the year, but it is the summer when it really comes alive.

Wainwright himself suggested that the walk be completed in stages over the course of a two-week holiday, so if you’re keen to add this accomplishment to your walking CV, a lengthy holiday may be required.

The Lake District is one of the country’s best options for a walking holiday at any time of the year, but it is the summer when it really comes alive.

If ever there was a part of the UK which can leave one speechless, it is the majestic mountain Ben Nevis.

The highest peak in the British Isles, it is both a challenge and a wonderful example of natural beauty.

Those enjoying walks at Ben Nevis can make the most of it by exploring it in different ways, each offering a unique slant on this majestic feature of the Scottish Highlands.

Go by gondola

Walking Ben Nevis is a great way to enjoy its ruggedness and beauty but as with all mountains, the top offers the best view.

Ben Nevis walks are challenging at the best of times and those who prefer can enjoy it from Britain’s only mountain gondola.

Visitors can sit back and relax as the gondola lifts them 650m into the air, meandering through mountain trails and offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

A camera is an absolute must, with many of the sights people will see deserving of being caught on film so the memories can last a lifetime.

The gondolas do not actually transport visitors to the top of Ben Nevis but to the north face of Aonach Mor.

If anything though, this allows those on Ben Nevis walks to witness its majesty even more, as the views of the great mountain are nothing short of outstanding.

Explore on a bike

Ben Nevis is also a popular location for cycling enthusiasts.

Thousands of cyclists of all levels travel to the mountain each year to tackle the various twists and turns it has to offer.

Those on walks at Ben Nevis need not worry however, as the walking routes and cycle paths are separate, meaning walking enthusiasts will not have to dodge speeding cyclists while they amble along.

They could even take to two wheels themselves, as there are numerous paths offering different views of the mountain which can be explored.

Again, taking a camera is recommended, as just about every angle of this marvellous feat of nature is worth capturing on film.

Slip on some skis

Brave walking enthusiasts could also take the chance to do some skiing while there.

Ben Nevis is a popular haunt for snowboard and skiing fans and those who have always wanted to try could take taster lessons in either discipline and experience the mountain another way.

The surrounding area

Set in the shadow of Ben Nevis is Fort William, the capital of Lochaber and one of the highlands’ most buzzing resorts.

After exploring Ben Nevis, visitors can enjoy walks in Fort William and see what the area has to offer.

One notable attraction is the Jacobite Steam train, which has been going for nearly three decades.

Running from Fort William to Mallaig, it is a must-see for those on holiday in the area.

So special are the views and the experience as a whole that Wanderlust magazine named it the Top Railway Journey in the World in 2009.

There is also a number of pubs, restaurants and hotels to enjoy after a long walk in Fort William.

Visitors could take in the Grog and Gruel before settling down to a good night’s rest at the Clan Macduff motel or one of the many other places to stay.

Those keen to start enjoying walking holidays could begin with a visit to Suffolk, which offers a wonderful array of easy walking routes, it has been claimed.

Frank Barrett, travel editor at Mail on Sunday, said that the county is quite flat meaning it is a great way to introduce one to the joys of walking.

He suggests those keen to explore walking routes in Suffolk should look to take part in the South and Heart of Suffolk Walking festival, which runs from May 15th to June 6th.

Mr Barrett pointed out that the Swan Hotel at Lavenham is offering special packages to walking fans visiting the festival.

“Suffolk is not a county famous for its steeping peaks, so it’s ideal for anyone in search of an untaxing stroll,” he added.

Walking enthusiasts keen to visit other festivals could visit the new website from Augmentra, which lists all upcoming events and gatherings in addition to walking route information.

With its vast expanses of green fields, majestic mountains and delightful quaint villages, the Peak District has always been a favourite of walking fans and hill climbers.

The Peak District National Park, established in 1951, was Britain’s first national park, giving it an extra special place in the nation’s heart.

Luscious landscapes

Nestled on the border between the northern highlands of Britain and the southern lowland counties, the Peak District boasts some of the most luscious green landscapes to be found anywhere in the country.

With these huge green spaces as far as the eye can see, walking in the Peak District is a particularly popular pastime for many people young and old.

The beauty of the Peak District is that it has walking routes to cater to everybody’s tastes and abilities.

A favourite Peak District walk is through Deepdale.

One of the treasures of the Peak District, it takes visitors through some wonderful limestone dales and provides a real escape from the outside world.

Another must see are the monuments of Baslow Edge and Gardoms Edge, which offer some of the most stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a great sight for walkers, photographers and artists alike.

Natural wonders

Along with walking boots and other gear, visitors must bring a camera with them to capture images of the jaw-dropping scenery they will encounter.

The Dark Peak is a barren and rugged landscape where the appearance changes dramatically with the weather and light conditions and offers powerful beauty.

Within the national park walkers will find The Roaches, the v-shaped gritstone protrusions which jut out of the landscape and add to the area’s dramatic splendour.

The hills and dales are only two of the attractions of the Peak District.

What it has over many other popular walking destinations is the stunning examples of natural beauty which lie underground.

A network of caves and caverns run below its luscious green expanses, with Speedwell Cavern offering a truly amazing experience.

Visitors travel on a boat through the various tunnels of this former lead mine where they will find some stunning sights.

Another feather in the Peak District’s cap is Blue John Cavern.

Blue John Stone is only found amongst the rocks of Treak Cliff Hill in Castleton.

This highly-prized stone is simply wonderful to behold, making this a popular site with walking fans all year round.

Back at sea level, the Heights of Abraham are also a must see, offering wonderful views and great sites to enjoy a picnic.

Vibrant villages

Blue John Cavern is located in the village of Castleton and walking enthusiasts must take the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the Peak District.

On three sides this wonderful little village is surrounded by steep hills, with the Mam Tor the most famous of these.

While the natural splendour is a good enough reason to visit, there are various other attractions which people must see.

Ruins of an ancient hilltop fortress and the rebuilt castle originally erected by William Peverill are just two of the famous sites which should be included in any itinerary.

Nestled in a valley bordered by the River Derwent is the stone-built village of Cromford.

Steeped in industrial history, the village is most famous for its association with Sir Richard Arkwright, a leading entrepreneur of the Industrial Revolution.

Particular sites of interest include the canal system, the Cromford and High Peak Railway and Derwent Valley Heritage Trail.

The picturesque market town of Ashbourne is also worth seeing, with lovely cottages, historic buildings and wonderful surrounding countryside making it a pleasant place to spend some time.

Food and drink

While exploring the villages and walking routes in the Peak District, visitors will more than likely build up an appetite, but luckily, the Peak District is rich in the number of pubs and restaurants offering the finest quality food.

The Ladybower Inn in Bamford is one of the most famous pubs.

With a menu boasting warm crab, scallion and goats cheese tart, fresh battered haddock and creamy wild mushroom and rabbit pies, this really is a popular haunt with Peak District walking enthusiasts.

Those enjoying a walk in Ashbourne should drop in to the Dog and Partridge.

Its comfortable surroundings are a great place to enjoy a Greek salad, a selection of Italian meats or a prawn and melon salad.

Walkers enjoying some time in Birch Vale on the High Peak can settle down in the ambient surroundings of the Sycamore Inn and sample delights such as wild mushroom risotto, belly pork and black pudding salad and venison sausages.

Rest and relaxation

With many hotels, guest houses and camp sites, there is no shortage of places to stay.

The best way to explore the terrain is on foot, so many visitors pitch up tents at the camp sites and spend the night with nature.

While this option may be the most exciting, visitors must ensure they have brought all the correct gear with them so they can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep before lacing up their walking boots and heading out into the wilderness once again.

There is only one way to discover the hidden treasures of the New Forest and that is to lace up one’s walking boots and head out on foot.

While meandering down the many walking routes and paths, visitors get a more intimate feel for the luscious green landscape than they would admiring it through the window of their car.

With an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, the area offers something for everyone, from artists looking to capture a beautiful landscape on canvas to photographers hoping to capture that perfect shot.

Historic sites

A visit to the New Forest must include a trip to Breamore House, an Elizabethan manor located in the picturesque village of Breamore, which offers quite outstanding views of the Avon Valley.

Housed within this majestic building are fine works of art, period furniture, tapestries and more.

Rockbourne Roman Villa is another must-see, as is Hurst Castle and Ferry, the fortress prison that housed Charles I and is now home to exhibits from various conflicts, including artefacts from World War II.

Glorious parks and gardens

The piece de resistance of the New Forest is its National Park.

It is a living and working remnant of medieval England offering wonderful walking routes, with its fresh air, clean water and luscious landscape making it a perfect example of England’s green and pleasant lands.

A combination of ancient woodland, heather-covered fields and quaint villages make this the jewel in the New Forest’s crown.

However, it is just one example which is popular with tourists, with walking groups also fond of the New Forest Water Gardens.

Set in three acres of glorious gardens, the ponds and waterfalls which are home to a variety of fish and marine life are a joy to behold and a wonderful discovery while walking and rambling in the area.

Furzey Gardens is another place waiting to be discovered.

Noted for its year-round beauty, it offers a wonderful spot in which to relax and take off one’s hiking boots for a short while.

Wonderful wildlife

Grazing on the long green grass of Burley Park are some of the most majestic and beautiful Red Deer likely to be seen anywhere.

With tractor rides and other tours taking place, the chance to get close to these wonderful animals should not be missed.

A trip to Lower Test Nature Reserve is also a must, although this vast area of coastal and wetland habitats requires visitors to wear sturdy walking or hiking boots and come equipped with suitable walking clothing.

This unique environment is home to some wonderful animals and plants, making it a fantastic spot for photography, art and walking.

The art of falconry has been practised in the New Forest for centuries and nestled within the area is Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile centre.

Here walkers will find a large collection of birds of prey – including eagles, vultures and owls – along with various reptiles ranging from snakes to tortoises.

Walking fans will also spot the famous New Forest pony, an animal that roams free over the open forest, with various other farm animals enjoying the space afforded them.

Quaint villages

The New Forest does not just offer grass and woodlands.

A visit to Barton-on-Sea provides stunning coastal walks and views which have to be seen to be believed.

Many people enjoy a swim in the area, meaning visitors can kick off their walking boots and take a dip in the sea should they wish.

Standing at the very eastern edge of the New Forest is the parish of Fawley which, with its many Roman remnants, is a popular spot for history fans.

To the western edge walkers will find Ringwood, the traditional market town of the New Forest and home to beautiful cottages.

Those who visit on a Wednesday can get a taste of the market atmosphere, with a trip to Jubilee Garden also recommended.

Rest and relaxation

The New Forest is home to numerous hotels, guest houses and camp sites.

As the best way to explore the terrain is on foot many visitors pitch up tents at the camp sites and spend the night with nature.

Those who do this must ensure they have brought all the correct gear with them so they can enjoy a good night’s sleep before lacing up their walking boots and heading out into the wilderness once again.

With hills blanketed in every shade of green and waterfalls tumbling from the mountains, the Lake District is a jewel in the UK’s crown and a favourite with walking and hiking fans everywhere.

Home to Lake Windermere, which at 10.5 miles is the longest in the county, the Lake District is perhaps the most striking example of the country’s natural beauty.

Lovely lakes

Water is what the area is best known for, with 16 lakes of different shapes and sizes emphasising the majesty of the terrain.

Lake Windermere is perhaps the most famous expanse of water in the region.

Drawing thousands of visitors every year, it offers something for everyone, including water sports for the adventurous, a wonderful scene for artists to capture and the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely cruise.

In fact, cruises are one of the most popular activities to take place on the lake, with trips ranging from 45 minutes to three hours.

While Lake Windermere holds the title of the country’s longest lake, it is not regarded as the most scenic.

That accolade belongs to Wastwater, which lies at the foot of England’s highest mountain –Scafell Pike.

It has been voted Britain’s Favourite View, with the roads alongside it offering breathtaking sights of the surrounding mountains, of which there are plenty.

Majestic mountains

The aforementioned Scafell Pike is the most famous.

At 978m tall, it is considered the most challenging mountain to climb in the UK, however, reaching the top is worth it for the spectacular views of Langdale Pikes and Wastwater it provides.

Blencathra is another of the region’s most-renowned peaks, with Sharp Edhe widely regarded as one of the most difficult of all ridges in the mountaineering world.

Get back to nature

While many come to the Lake District to scale the mountains and boat on the lakes, just as many come with their paintbrushes and pastels to capture the area’s natural beauty on paper.

There are several sites which are popular with artists, including the Packhorse bridge at Wasdale Head, Castlerigg Stone Circle in Keswick and Yew Tree Yarn near Consiton.

The various private and public gardens are also popular spots with visitors.

Brantwood garden, set in a 250-acre wood estate with spectacular views, is one of the most impressive and is considered a paradise for hill walkers.

Holker Hall, home of Lady and Lord Cavendish, is another green expanse open to visitors, who can enjoy its flowers, terraces and walking routes.

While the natural environment is the major factor which attracts visitors to the Lake District, it is not all the region has to offer.

Explore the area

Dotted around the countryside are quaint villages boasting white cottages and country inns serving the finest pub food.

The George and Dragon in Penrith is one place where visitors can sit down to a hearty meal.

This beautiful country estate pub serves seasonal produce from the nearby Lowther estate, with organically-reared chicken, beef and lamb all served with fresh vegetables.

Another watering hole popular with visitors is the award-winning Tweedies Bar in Grasmere, with a rich and varied menu and quaint surroundings making this a favourite place to enjoy a relaxing pint.

Rest and relaxation

With so much to see and do, it is unlikely that visitors will see all they need to in one day.

Thankfully, there a number of places to stay, from the four-star Low Wood Hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere to the iconic Midland Hotel, which was a favourite of Coco Chanel and Lawrence Olivier.

Others choose to enjoy the great outdoors 24/7 and decide to camp, with various sites and lodges dotted around the countryside.

The Lake District has something to offer everyone, with its rugged terrain just waiting to be explored.

With such variation in the terrain, it is essential that walkers bring the correct walking or hiking boots with them and invest in a map for peace of mind.

Follow these tips and prepare for a truly wonderful walking holiday.