Calm Paths and Autumn Colours: Best Family & Couples Walks in the Lake District
There is something magically calming, yet mystical about the landscape of the Lake District. The rolling canvas of autumnal colour took my breath away on our most recent break to the Derwent Water. As we pulled up to our hotel, the beautiful Lodare Hotel and Spa, which is framed idyllically by a cascading waterfall and splurge of vegetation, I turned to see and admire the autumnal hues of the dominant, yet calming wonders of the fells that stood before me.
The colder weather meant that there were more parking spaces on the road, and as we pulled up we met a scattering of friendly faces, enough to feel part of something, but still with space to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Lakes.
As I slipped my feet into the ‘oh so familiar’ walking shoes and covered my head with a huge woollen hat, which resembled that of a tea cosy, I felt ready to embrace the autumnal chill.
A solid structured board walk safely led us across the marsh land that guided us into the mouth of this majestic Derwent lake and to the foot of the double ridged peak of Cat Bells.
As my eyes moved down the fells, they turned from a deep hulk green to a tapestry of gold and russet, the air sharpening just enough to make every breath feel alive. The lakes mirror skies were brushed with drifting cloud that seemed to form like meringue peaks. It really is a season that forces you to slow down, inviting you to switch your mindset, to look up, and to listen.
On this occasion, we opted for a gentler walk across the lower path of the fell. The silver birch trees, along with their forestry friends, lined the base of Cat Bells, their dappled and vibrant display of orange, red, yellow and green hues relighting my soul and the smile on my face. Underfoot, the walk was predominantly dry and steady, despite the ominous grey clouds that continued to linger in a threatening manner. The gentle trickle of streams was soothing and instantly calmed my whole being as we absorbed the beauty of this natural world, step by step, never taking any moment for granted.
As the path naturally trickled off the fell onto the main road, where in summer you are met by a well deserving ice cream cart, the carved, familiar and friendly road signs direct you down a steep and slightly uneven path to a paddle boarders heaven. Beyond a wooden gate, half-hidden beneath the sweep of overhanging branches, a path begins almost without notice. It meanders softly through shade and leaf-filtered light, rapidly widening until, almost imperceptibly, it delivers you to the quiet edge of Derwent Water. The lake appears with a kind of hush - peaceful, inevitable, as though it has been waiting there all along. In the summer, the secret you hold with the lake becomes well known and, with its long, solid and well kept Hawes End Jetty jutting out into this majestic water, this beautiful location is brought to life with a hive of energy; children playing, boats collecting and paddle boards returning to their true destiny. The contrast in this autumnal month is that of peacefulness, reflection and calm as individual souls line the waterside, the lake providing them with a moment to breath, reset and escape.
The fells paint the skyline with a raw beauty that is beyond words - their dominance, their colour, their presence leaves you in awe, as momentarily you absorb their strength, and feel like you too can conquer the world.
As you naturally follow the path of cobbles and stones around to the right, instinctively your eye-line is drawn back across your shoulder, the fells drawing you back towards them, as you become captured by their mesmerising spell.
However, you can’t help but notice the white house that sits humbly on a private peninsular, accessible only by a private road. You find yourself imagining your life in this dreamlike dwelling - surrounded only by this world of natural delight, charm and splendour. Beneath the arch of the boathouse, a weathered wooden boat rests in quiet secrecy, stirring thoughts of the journeys it has known and the memories it still holds. I was jealous of the laughs it must have absorbed, the sights it must have seen and the adventures it must have shared.
And yet, beyond this enchanted house sat something even more thought-provoking…a dilapidated shed housing the life of a little Teddy, once loved, once lost, once forgotten.
What began as a simple “Ted in the Shed” has grown into something of a quiet phenomenon. This little grey teddy now stands as a symbol for the many beloved pets who once shared in the beauty of Derwent Water. The shrine of heartfelt notes, photographs, and timeworn postcards attached to the side of the shed brought tears to my eyes. Somehow, this humble teddy has come to represent a sanctuary, a place where families can lay down their grief and, in doing so, keep the spirits of their pets alive - the little ‘Ted in the Shed’, watching over them at all times.
As we walked onwards on our trail, past Rupert’s Wood and left at the stone bench and table to follow our circular route back to Lodore Hotel, I noticed a single yellow leaf, dancing rhythmically and dynamically in the wind - in this moment I recognised its freedom, its ability to let go and its spirit - a metaphor for the impact this wondrous location has on you.
Far too quickly, my feet met the familiar boardwalk again. A crow swept overhead, its ominous call echoing through the trees. Strangely, its presence wasn’t frightening; it was almost comforting, a reminder of the deep silence this wonderful place seemed to hold.
I wanted to stay here forever.
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Practical Info for Visitors
If you’re inspired to explore Derwent Water and Cat Bells, here are a few tips:
📍 Start Point: Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa (easy access and parking)
🚶♀️ Walk Difficulty: Gentle to moderate; suitable for families
🕰️ Best Time to Visit: Late September to November for peak colour
📸 Photo Tip: Visit early morning or golden hour for the best light
>Link to the GPX file
