Walks From Hazeldene

The Derwentwater Circuit

Walk through Hope Park, passing the theatre and boat-landings. The tar road gives way to gravel paths passing Friars Crag, Ings Wood and Broomhill Point to Scarf Close Bay. Depending on the level of the lake, and either follow the lakeshore or the roadside path to Ashness Gate landing stage and then on to Kettlewell car park. Here, cross the road and take the woodland path to and behind the Lodore Falls Hotel, rejoining the road thereafter for a short while before going through a gate into fields to the River Derwent beyond. Go over the bridge and follow the "duck boards" to Manesty and High Brandlehow, eventually reaching the village of Portinscale. Cross the swing bridge and take the Howrahs footpath back to Keswick.

Latrigg

Cross Keswick and head for the Leisure Pool. Exit the parking area at the rear, bearing left at the roundabout. Take the bridleway (2nd right) staying on this path until you are clear of the trees where shortly afterwards a path doubles back on it's self and zigzags up to the seat just below the summit. When you have recovered from the view continue over the top to the gate. Pass through the gate following the path to Brundholme End. Pass through another gate and turn left going down to the bottom of the hill. Take the gate on the right through a narrow field and a further gate takes you on to the Old Railway footpath. Turn right for Keswick.

Catbells

Head for the Keswick Launch on Derwentwater, taking a boat to Hawes End. The path meanders upwards over the lower slopes. Cross the road and start the climb proper up and over the ridge to the summit of Catbells. The views are fantastic, making the effort of the climb worthwhile. From here you have 3 options: drop down into the hawse and take the left hand path and return via the Derwentwater valley. The right hand path takes you back through the Newland valley. If you still have the energy, continue on over Maiden Moor and High Spy to Dalehead Tarn before dropping down to the right into Newlands valley. Once in the hamlet of Little Town take the path through the fields to Skelgill and Gutherscale where you started your climb.

Walla Crag & Ashness Bridge

Pass by George Fishers, the cinema and St Johns Church, following Ambleside Road before taking the 2nd right into Springs Road. Continue to Springs Farm and through the farmyard into the woods beyond. Take the path to the right, passing the TV mast, cross the wooden bridge, though the gate and turn right onto Castlerigg Lonnin. Pass Rake Foot Farm, cross another bridge and start the climb up to Walla Crag. Pass through yet another gate onto the crag top following the pathway with great care along to the summit. Savour the view, there's not many to match it anywhere in the world! Continue on over the style, keeping to the higher path over Falcon Crag before descending to Ashness Bridge. If you have the energy carry on up the road to Surprise View, before taking the road down to the lakeshore pathway back to Keswick. Alternatively, catch the launch or 79 bus.