MARK Orrest Head
Orrest Head is one of the most iconic beginner walks in the Lake District — a short, friendly climb directly from Windermere that delivers a full-scale panorama over the lake, the central fells, and the high mountains beyond. Accessible, structured, and perfect for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting a quick, rewarding viewpoint without committing to a full fell day.
The full route breakdown — stats, the line in stages, what it really feels like, and the practical detail you need to plan the day.
At a Glance
- Grade: Easy walk
- Terrain: Woodland paths, stepped sections, gentle gradients
The Route
🏔️ Route Character
Orrest Head is a short, structured viewpoint walk — gentle woodland paths leading to a broad summit with huge views. It's ideal for families, beginners, sunset walkers, and anyone wanting a quick win. The route is simple, safe, and accessible in all seasons.
Alfred Wainwright famously described Orrest Head as his first Lake District summit — the moment he fell in love with the fells.
🧰 Route Breakdown
- 1. Windermere → Orrest Head Lane — Start opposite Windermere train station and follow the signed path up Orrest Head Lane — a gentle, rising track with easy gradients, smooth gravel, occasional stone steps, and sheltered woodland.
- 2. Woodland Path → Upper Terrace — The path enters woodland and begins to climb more steeply — atmospheric trees, short stepped sections, and occasional viewpoints through the canopy. Well-maintained and easy to follow.
- 3. Upper Terrace → Summit Steps — A short series of stone steps leads to the final terrace — uneven stone on a gentle gradient, safe in all conditions. The only 'steep' part of the walk, still very manageable.
- 4. Orrest Head Summit — The summit opens suddenly — a broad grassy top with a viewpoint board and huge panoramas over Windermere, the Langdale Pikes, the Fairfield Horseshoe, Red Screes, Wansfell Pike, and the Coniston fells.
- 5. Descent — Return the same way (fast and simple, ideal for families) or take the longer loop via Causeway Farm for gentle farmland scenery.
Practical
⚠️ Difficulty & Hazards
- Steps: Short stepped sections and uneven stone near the summit.
- Slippery: Can be slippery in winter, though safe with care.
- Crowds: Busy in peak season.
🌠️ Who This Route Suits
- First-time visitors
- Families
- Casual walkers
- Sunset photographers
- Anyone wanting a quick, rewarding viewpoint
Not ideal for
- People wanting a full fell day — choose Wansfell or Loughrigg
📱 Parking & Logistics
- Parking: Broad Street car park — closest to the start. Windermere train station parking for rail visitors.
- Facilities: Cafés and pubs in Windermere; toilets at the station.
- Transport: Direct trains from Manchester to Windermere; 555 bus from Kendal.
🧰 GPX & Map Notes
On OS Explorer OL7. The route is signed and obvious; a GPX is useful only if exploring the Causeway Farm loop.
⭐ MX Summary: Orrest Head is the perfect Windermere viewpoint walk — short, friendly, and hugely rewarding. Woodland paths lead to a broad summit with panoramic views over Windermere and the central fells.