Ambleside to Troutbeck walk
From Ambleside go on a circular discovery walk through country lanes, woods and fields. Take in the views of Lake Windermere, visit Troutbeck village and the atmospheric Townend farmhouse, before returning to Ambleside via a more challenging route over Wansfell Pike with great views over the surrounding fells.
Detour to a waterfall
On the return journey to Ambleside take a detour to the waterfall of Stock Ghyll Force. Perfect for a picnic stop.
Total steps: 8
Total steps: 8
Start point
Market Cross, central Ambleside, grid ref: NY376044
Step 1
From the Market Cross in Ambleside, follow the A591 towards Windermere, out of the town along Lake Road and take the Old Lake Road on the left. After a big car park there is a small road to the left, signposted to 'Jenkins Crag, Skelghyll and Troutbeck (bridleway)'.
Step 2
Follow the signposts on this path through Skelghyll woods, past Jenkins Crag, where you can make a short detour to admire the view. Follow the path through the woods to High Skelghyll farm.
Step 3
Go across the farmyard at High Skelghyll, following the signposted footpath. At the crossing of paths at High Skelghyll, follow the public bridleway to Troutbeck. This path turns left just across the bridge, through a gate, and goes uphill. At the end of this path, cross the stile onto Robin Lane.
Step 4
Follow the gravelled track of Robin Lane, past the pillar, to Troutbeck Post Office.
Step 5
From the post office you can visit Townend. Turn right and follow the road. Townend is on the right, at the road junction.
Step 6
For the return leg of the walk, return to the post office, and continue on the road into Troutbeck village. Between two houses, near the Mortal Man Inn, is a footpath on the left, up Nanny Lane to Wansfell. The names of the roads and the pubs have a story to tell in themselves.
Step 7
The gravelled track steadily climbs. Take the footpath to the left, and proceed uphill to reach the summit of Wansfell Pike, with superb views over Ambleside and the surrounding fells. From the summit take the steep path down to Ambleside, until you meet the road.
Step 8
Turn left on the road. Take the road marked 'Styrigg' on the left, and follow the footpath back to the centre of Ambleside.
End point
Market Cross, central Ambleside, grid ref: NY376044
Trail map
More near here
Monk Coniston and Tarn Hows walk
Walk from the head of Coniston Water to Tarn Hows via this picturesque route passing through woodland, farmland and the Walled Garden at Monk Coniston Hall. Look out for wildlife along the way including red squirrels, otters and hares.
Tarn Hows circular walk
Take in stunning views of the Lake District fells as you follow this easy, accessible route around a tree-lined tarn, with a Tramper mobility scooter available to borrow.
Ambleside Champion Tree Trail
Wander among some of England's tallest trees on this easy waymarked trail through Skelghyll Woods. With benches along the way, it's the perfect route for a picnic.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Things to do at Townend
Townend is full of fascinating stories. Step back in time to the 17th century and learn more about the Browne family and their lives.
Things to do in Troutbeck
Troutbeck is an unusual collection of hamlets that make up a unique village in the Lake District. What will you discover?
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.