This lovely little walk offers a peaceful escape from the bustling hotspots of Borrowdale. Starting from the charming village of Rosthwaite, it follows a well-marked path with a gentle ascent through picturesque fields and into a delightful patch of woodland. It's an ideal choice for families with young children, offering a taste of the fells without a major climb.
The Walk at a Glance
1 - 2 Hours
Gentle pace
3 Miles / 4.8 km
Return Trip
Easy
Well-marked path
Great for Young Kids
Kids 3+, carriers
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start in Rosthwaite
Park at the National Trust car park in Rosthwaite (CA12 5XB). From the car park, walk into the village and turn right. Follow the lane that leads past the school and out of the village.
2. Through the Fields
Go through a gate and follow the clear signpost for Scale Close Coppice. The path begins a gentle ascent through beautiful fields, with lovely views of the surrounding Borrowdale fells opening up around you.
3. Cross the Stream
You will soon come across a small stream or 'beck'. This is a great spot for children to have a little paddle or play on a warm day. Cross the beck and continue on the path as it gets a little steeper.
4. Into the Woodland
The path enters the charming woodland of Scale Close Coppice. This is a lovely, peaceful area to explore. The path continues through the wood before emerging higher up. This is a good point to turn around.
5. The Return Journey
Enjoy the views of the Borrowdale valley as you retrace your steps. The descent is easy and pleasant, leading you back down through the fields and into Rosthwaite village.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Refreshments: Rosthwaite has a couple of lovely cafes, including the Flock-In, which serves delicious cakes and hot drinks. There is also a village shop and a pub.
- Footwear: The path can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof walking shoes or boots are recommended.
- Dog Friendly: A great walk for dogs, but please keep them on a lead as you will be walking through fields with sheep.
- Parking: Use the pay-and-display National Trust car park. It can get busy, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.
More to Explore Nearby
The Bowder Stone
Just a short drive or a pleasant walk from Rosthwaite is the famous Bowder Stone, a massive, precariously balanced boulder with a ladder that allows you to climb to the top.
Castle Crag
For a slightly more challenging family walk, the ascent of Castle Crag from Rosthwaite offers incredible views from its unique, slate-covered summit, which features a war memorial.
Honister Slate Mine
Drive over the Honister Pass to visit England's last working slate mine. They offer fascinating underground tours and thrilling outdoor activities like the Via Ferrata and Infinity Bridge.