Craving an escape into the wild? The Lake District is the ultimate playground for British adventurers, packed with soaring peaks, shimmering lakes and hidden spots perfect for pitching your tent. Whether you are chasing sunrise views from a mountaintop or unwinding by a secluded tarn, these landscapes were made for wild camping. For added comfort and peace of mind, a portable battery can be the perfect companion on your Lake District adventure.
In this guide, we will reveal 7 epic Lake District hikes that pair panoramic views with peaceful wild camping spots. Bring your boots, your sense of adventure, and a sturdy backpack to stay ready off the grid. Let the wild times begin!
Hike #1 Helvellyn via Striding Edge
Helvellyn, standing at 950 metres, is a highlight among Lake District hikes. This celebrated route offers sweeping panoramas across the national park, from the serene waters of Ullswater to the forested slopes above Thirlmere, making it one of the most scenic walking trails in the Lake District.
The ridgeline itself, Striding Edge, is narrow, dramatic and unforgettable. It is a magnet for hikers who love a bit of adrenaline mixed with natural splendour. This is not one of your easy Lake District walks, but it is one of the most rewarding.
Safety First: Tips for Tackling Striding Edge
§ Avoid bad weather: Striding Edge can become dangerous in high winds, fog, or rain. Wet rocks and strong gusts increase the risk of falls.
§ Stick to the path: There are bypass paths if the main ridge becomes too daunting—don’t take risks beyond your comfort level.
§ Pack for all conditions: Weather changes quickly in the Lake District. So, bring your waterproofs, layers, and navigation tools.
Whether you are after thrilling Lake District hikes or looking to challenge yourself with more technical Lake District walking routes, Helvellyn via Striding Edge easily earns its place among the 10 best walks in Lake District and delivers a bucket-list-worthy adventure.
Hike #2: Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head
No list on the subject of best Lake District hikes would be complete without Scafell Pike. As England’s tallest mountain at 978 metres, it offers rugged terrain, remote beauty and bragging rights. The most popular route starts at Wasdale Head, making it one of the most direct and scenic Lake District walking routes to the summit.
This trail features rocky ascents, sweeping views and a sense of raw wilderness that defines the best walking trails in the Lake District. While not one of the easy walks, it is manageable for those with decent fitness and the right gear.
Wild Camping Tips Near Scafell Pike
§ Best spot: Wild camping near Lingmell Beck offers a peaceful setting with access to water and proximity to the trailhead. It is ideal for breaking up your ascent or enjoying the area overnight.
§ Weather warning: Conditions at the summit are highly variable—cold, windy, and often misty, even in summer. You must not forget your layers, waterproofs and reliable gear.
§ Power up: A small generator or portable battery can help you recharge essentials like GPS devices and phones after a long day of climbing.
If you want to explore hikes that combine challenge, solitude and scenery, Scafell Pike via Wasdale Head is the one to beat.
Hike #3: Catbells and Derwentwater Loop
Catbells is often one of the first Lake District hikes recommended to newcomers. Rising modestly at 451 metres, this fell may be small in stature, but it delivers panoramic views that rival those from much loftier peaks. It is one of the most beloved walking trails in the Lake District, perfect for families, casual walkers and anyone seeking a satisfying half-day hike with minimal difficulty.
What makes Catbells even more appealing is its position above Derwentwater, offering sweeping vistas of the lake, surrounding fells, and the nearby town of Keswick. As part of the Lake District circular walks, the extended Derwentwater Loop offers a scenic and tranquil return, making it a great full-day outdoor experience.
Wild Camping Tips Around Derwentwater
§ Where to camp: While wild camping isn’t formally allowed near the lakeshore, some quiet areas on higher ground slightly off-trail offer discreet camping opportunities. Arrive later in the day and leave no trace.
§ Crowd considerations: Catbells is incredibly popular during summer weekends and school holidays. For a quieter experience, aim for sunrise or a weekday hike.
In short, Catbells Loop around Derwentwater deserves a top spot in any list for its charm, ease and photo-worthy views.
(Copyright photo from https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/activity-rest_5402728.htm)
Hike #4 Grisedale Tarn via Fairfield Horseshoe
Tucked between rugged peaks, Grisedale Tarn is one of the Lake District’s most peaceful and secluded mountain tarns. Reached via the iconic Fairfield Horseshoe, this hike offers a challenging ridge walk, quiet solitude, and the opportunity to camp in a remote upland environment. For experienced walkers seeking less-travelled but spectacular Lake District hikes, this route is an excellent choice.
The Fairfield Horseshoe is a long, circular ridge walk starting and ending in Ambleside, making it one of the more challenging Lake District circular walks. However, the rewards, especially around Grisedale Tarn, make the effort entirely worthwhile.
Camping and Safety Tips for Grisedale Tarn
§ Camping spot: Grisedale Tarn sits in a natural bowl, sheltered from the wind and perfect for wild camping. However, space is limited, so arrive early in the afternoon to secure a flat pitch.
§ Weather watch: This area can be foggy and windswept even in summer, so check forecasts and pack warm, waterproof layers.
Among all Lake District hikes, this one offers a perfect mix of rugged elevation and peaceful escape. It is ideal for those who want to explore more ambitious Lake District hikes or anyone seeking a wild overnight by a tarn with a view.
Hike #5 High Street Ridge
One of the most fascinating Lake District hikes, the High Street Ridge, follows an ancient Roman road that once connected military forts and outposts scattered across the rugged fells. Today, it is a challenging 15-kilometer ridge walk reaching a maximum elevation of 828 meters at High Street summit, offering dramatic views stretching from Windermere to Ullswater—and on clear days, even further across the National Park’s iconic peaks.
Perfect for those seeking both history and solitude, this trail offers wide skies, open terrain, and a peaceful escape from busier paths, with a typical completion time of 6 to 8 hours, depending on pace and conditions.
Camping Tips
§ Angle Tarn, located near the ridge, is an ideal wild camping spot with calm waters and surrounding hills for shelter.
§ Weather on the ridge can change quickly, so be ready for wind and pack accordingly.
§ This open, exposed trail is best for experienced hikers who can navigate with a map or GPS, especially in low visibility.
If you are creating a personal top 10 list of Lake District hikes, this one earns a spot for its blend of history, remoteness, and epic scenery.
Hike #6 Ennerdale Round
For folks who want to escape the crowds and discover one of the most peaceful Lake District hikes, the Ennerdale Round delivers. This lesser-known circular route traces the beautiful and remote Ennerdale Valley, skirting around Ennerdale Water through ancient woodland, riverside paths and mountain flanks.
For those seeking solitude, the Ennerdale Round is one of the most peaceful Lake District hikes. This 36 km circular trail circles Ennerdale Water, passing through ancient woodlands, riverside paths, and rugged mountain slopes. Hikers enjoy views of peaks like Great Gable and Pillar, plus chances to spot wildlife such as red deer.
Taking 8–10 hours, it demands good fitness and navigation skills. Its remote setting offers a true escape from crowds and an immersive experience of the Lake District’s wild beauty. Perfect for experienced walkers craving tranquillity and stunning landscapes.
Camping Tips
Tucked-away areas near Ennerdale Water offer excellent opportunities for wild camping with lake views.
§ The isolation here means you must be fully self-sufficient, so don’t forget to pack a portable battery and navigation tools.
§ This area is ideal for seasoned hikers who prefer solitude and a more off-grid feel.
Among all Lake District hikes, this one is perfect for a peaceful weekend of wild camping and reflection, far from the tourist trail.
(Copyright photo from https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/towering-fells-around-ennerdale-water-lakes-district-england_25096860.htm)
Hike #7 Langdale Pikes Traverse
The Langdale Pikes Traverse is one of the most visually stunning Lake District hikes, showcasing the jagged skyline that defines the Langdale Valley. This route climbs multiple iconic peaks, including Pike of Stickle, Harrison Stickle, and Loft Crag, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking views. Along the way, hikers are treated to sweeping panoramas of surrounding valleys, shimmering lakes, and rugged fells.
The trail’s dramatic ridges and rocky outcrops provide a thrilling experience for adventurers who appreciate both natural beauty and physical challenge. With ever-changing light and weather conditions, every step reveals new, jaw-dropping scenery that captures the wild spirit of the Lake District.
Camping Tips
§ Flat areas near Stickle Tarn provide a great wild camping spot with water access and wind protection.
§ Be sure to bring proper navigation tools, as fog and rocky terrain can make the route tricky.
§ Langdale’s popularity means it is best to arrive early to secure a quiet pitch and avoid day crowds.
This is one of the Lake District hikes that truly captures the rugged beauty of the region. It is ideal for experienced campers wanting a dramatic overnight adventure.
Essential Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Wild Camping Trip
Wild camping adds a special kind of magic to your outdoor adventures, especially when paired with the breathtaking Lake District hikes and tranquil surroundings. But with great freedom comes great responsibility, so preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience.
Check the Weather Forecast
The Lake District is known for its rapidly changing weather. Before heading out on any of the popular walking trails in the Lake District, check the Met Office forecast. Bring waterproof layers, a warm hat and gloves—even in summer.
Know Your Route
Many Lake District hikes cover remote areas with poor signal, so never rely solely on your phone. Bring an Ordnance Survey map and compass, and make sure you know how to use them. Download offline maps as a backup and inform someone of your route and expected return.
Pack Smart but Light
Space and weight are precious when hiking and camping. Choose a lightweight tent, a warm but compact sleeping bag and a small camping stove. A portable battery is also a great addition for charging your phone or GPS device in remote areas.
Choose a Safe Camping Spot
Stick to higher ground away from valleys that may flood. Look for flat, sheltered spots with access to a water source, but be sure to purify any water you collect. Wild camping is legal in much of the Lake District if you are respectful and discreet.
Jackery Portable Power Station for Lake District Hikes
When you are out exploring the wild beauty of the Lake District, where remote trails, dramatic ridgelines, and tranquil tarns are often far from civilisation, having a reliable power source can make all the difference.
Whether you are charging a camera to capture those sunrise views or keeping your phone and GPS powered on multi-day Lake District hikes, a portable power station ensures convenience, safety and comfort.
Jackery delivers dependable, efficient power with its range of portable power stations designed specifically to support adventurers living life off the grid.
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station
The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is built for adventurers tackling remote and rugged routes like those found on Lake District hikes.
With a robust 1070Wh capacity and 1500W output, it easily powers the essentials you might rely on during multi-day treks, from recharging a headlamp and drone battery to keeping your camera, GPS, and phone powered throughout the journey.
Its multiple ports (USB-A, USB-C, and 100W dual PD) let you charge several devices at once, so you can document sunrise at Langdale Pikes or navigate across the High Street Ridge without power anxiety.
The Emergency Super Charging mode is especially useful when the weather turns fast; with a one-hour top-up via the Jackery app, you’re ready to go before conditions worsen.
Weighing just 23.8 lbs, this portable unit fits neatly into your car or camper for basecamp support. With options for AC, solar, or car charging, Jackery ensures your Lake District hikes stay safe, connected, and powered — no matter how far off-grid you go.
Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station
When every ounce counts on a Lake District hike, the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station strikes the perfect balance between power and portability. Weighing just 13.32 lbs, about the size of a basketball, it slips easily into your car boot or basecamp kit, ready to support everything for your weekend hikes.
With 518Wh of capacity and a 500W output, it’s ideal for keeping your essentials charged without extra bulk. You can top up your camera after a long day on the fells, run LED lighting for a cosy camp setup, or recharge GPS and phones before the next stage of your journey.
Jackery’s portable power stations combine lightweight design, reliable capacity, and versatile charging to meet the real needs of Lake District hikers, delivering dependable power without weighing down your pack.
Conclusion
The Lake District’s wild camping hikes offer a rare blend of adventure, serenity, and breathtaking scenery. From dramatic ridges to peaceful tarns, these walking trails Lake District spots are perfect for those seeking a true escape. As you explore and camp responsibly, bring a reliable portable power station to stay connected and comfortable, and ensure your devices stay charged—making every step of your journey safer and more enjoyable.
