Discover the dramatic beauty of the Northern Lake District

Rugged fells rise above glistening ribbon lakes; herds of hardy Herdwick sheep graze the slopes, hemmed in by meandering dry stone walls; smiling hikers pause to wish you well, even on damp days; and beyond its idyllic, chocolate box dales, great snow capped peaks quicken the pulse. There are few places in Britain quite as exquisite as Lakeland.

The Northern Lake District plays host to some of the national park’s finest and most beloved hiking routes. Superstar fells like Helvellyn, Catbells and Blencathra are well-known favourites, yet everywhere there is adventure to discover, charm to be sought and sublime natural beauty to witness. From the excitement found on the knife-edge ridges of Striding Edge and Sharp Edge to the magnificent walking along the shores of Buttermere and Derwent Water, there’s something for every kind of hiker.

I’m a Cumbrian born and bred and grew up with the view of mighty Skiddaw as a constant on the horizon. As a family, we would often picnic in the Northern Fells, frolicking in the streams below Carrock Fell. As I grew older, I discovered a deep and profound love for the fells of my home county, returning time and time again to revel in their delights.

In this Collection, I showcase seven superb, yet varied hikes in the Northern Lake District. This is by no means a definitive ‘best of’, as such a list is highly subjective and depends on what any given individual wants from a day in the fells. Instead, this is a Collection that contains everything from easier ambles suitable for the whole family, to thrilling ridge scrambles to save for calm and clear conditions. The Tours are roughly ordered in terms of difficulty, starting with the most straightforward. Some of these routes are popular classics, while others are the preserve of the Lakeland connoisseur.

There should be something for everyone in this Collection. From wild mountain climbs and exhilarating ridge scrambles to lakeside strolls and woodland saunters, from famous classics to little-known beauty spots, it showcases some of Lakeland's finest sights and experiences.

The wonderful town of Keswick, often cited as England’s adventure capital, is the ideal base for adventures in the Northern Lake District. Accessible by bus from Kendal, Penrith and Carlisle, Keswick is magically nestled in the shadow of some of the national park’s most iconic fells. For more information about where to stay in Keswick, public transport and much more, visit: keswick.org. With countless gear shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants and other attractions, there’s plenty to keep you busy when Lakeland drizzle sets in.

Speaking of the Cumbrian weather, always take waterproof layers on hikes here, while study hiking shoes are also a must. Take plenty of food and drink on the longer hikes and pack a power bank, as you’ll be taking so many photos that your phone won’t know what hit it.

See you on the fells!