Orrest Head Circular Walk

The Orrest Head Circular is a pretty easy trail that features a small amount of elevation gain on the climb uphill to the lookout. While the gradual climb should be manageable for most walkers, there are areas that might prove difficult for those that are less mobile. Remember to arrive early to secure parking at the trailhead, as the town of Windermere can become fairly busy during peak hours.

Although a good stretch of this walk passes through the heavy cover of the forest, there are still plenty of wonderfully scenic views to be experienced. The trail gradually climbs uphill through the forest to arrive at the lookout point, where you will have some amazing views overlooking the vast stretches of lush green forest and the blue waters of Windermere below. From there, the trail descends the hillside and passes through several charming woodland areas on the return leg of the walk. The shady tree cover and picturesque scenery along this walk make it the perfect activity for a hot summer day.

Setting out from the roadside parking area, make your way west along the road and turn right just after the Windermere Hotel. From here, you will make your way along the lane for 0.4mi, as it climbs uphill through the serene landscape of Elleray Wood.

After passing by Steve Hicks Blacksmith on your right, you will soon come to a series of junctions in the trail. Go right at the first and an immediate left on the second to continue through the charming wood in a northwestern direction. Head right at the next junction to keep climbing uphill for 0.2mi to exit the tree cover on the approach to the summit of Orrest Head.
After passing through a kissing gate and arriving at the vantage point, you will have a stunning view overlooking the woodlands and the town directly below, as well as the blue waters of Windermere stretching out before you. You will also be able to spot a number of other fells in the area, including Old Man of Coniston, Scafell Pike, Great Gable, Fairfield, and Langdale Pikes.

After taking in the sights, continue north along the path to descend the hillside for 0.4mi, eventually arriving at a small crossing over Wynlass Beck. Make your way to the opposite side and cross over the stile, before turning left to follow along the road to the west. Keep on for 0.3mi, as you enjoy the picturesque countryside scenery before turning left to enter the cover of the forest and pass through a kissing gate.

Shortly after crossing back over Wynlass Beck, you will keep right at a junction to cut across Low hag Wood and eventually break out of the tree cover. After 0.2mi, keep right onto the wide track and you will eventually come to a junction just before Patterdale Road. Head left here and make your way to the southeast for 0.7mi to cut across the beautiful woodland terrain before arriving back at the Windermere Hotel. From here, retrace your steps east along the road to return to your vehicle, having completed the Orrest Head Circular.

Trail Highlights

Windermere

At over 11 miles long and nearly 1 mile wide, Windermere has the distinction of being the largest natural lake in England. This beautiful ribbon lake was formed by glacial activity that occurred in the area roughly 17,000 to 14,700 years ago. Currently, the area offers access to countless outdoor recreation activities and has served as one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations since the mid-1800s.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to walk to the summit of Orrest Head?

The walk to the summit lookout atop Orrest head is roughly 20 minutes, offering great value for the minimal effort required.