Orrest Head View Point
England · Cumbria · 1.9 miles (round trip) · ~1 hr 45 min (round trip)
View of Windermere along the Orrest head trail.
Path down from Orrest Head.
Orrest Head View Point and bench at sunset.
Steps up to Orrest Head.
A wooden carving of the Gruffalo, other carvings from this story nearby. See myMap below for location.
Route and Terrain
The path is a mix of well-maintained gravel tracks and some tarmac sections, with the accessible 'Miles Without Stiles' route (blue markers) being particularly well-surfaced and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. There are some steeper inclines, especially on the initial section of the classic route, with gradients up to 1:4 in places. The terrain can become muddy and slippery after wet weather. The route is a circular woodland walk with no stiles or scrambling. It's generally considered hilly due to the steady ascent, but not excessively so for the short distance.
Sights & Experiences
Prepare for a truly magical ascent through Elleray Wood, a charming woodland bursting with life. Keep an eye out for whimsical chainsaw carvings of native creatures and storybook characters hidden amongst the trees – they're a delight for all ages! As you climb, glimpses of Windermere begin to appear, building anticipation for the grand finale. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with an absolutely breathtaking 360-degree panorama. Gaze out over the glistening waters of Lake Windermere, with iconic fells like Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and the Langdale Pikes forming a magnificent backdrop. There's even a slate panorama at the top, complete with Wainwright's drawings, to help you identify the surrounding peaks.
Hidden Gems
While the main path is enchanting, look for the natural footpath through a newer section of woodland, featuring more chainsaw sculptures of native creatures. These lesser-seen carvings offer a slightly wilder feel. The 'Miles Without Stiles' route itself, though popular, is a well-restored Victorian carriage drive, offering a glimpse into the area's past that many might overlook.
History & Heritage
Orrest Head holds a special place in the history of the Lake District, being the very first fell climbed by the renowned guidebook author Alfred Wainwright in 1930. He described this moment as "our first ascent in Lakeland, our first sight of mountains in tumultuous array across glittering waters, our awakening to beauty," a sentiment that profoundly changed his life and inspired his iconic series of books. The land itself was once part of the Elleray Estate, with Orrest Head gifted to Windermere Council in 1902 for public enjoyment, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
Seasonal Changes & Best Time to Visit
This woodland walk is a treat year-round. Spring brings a carpet of bluebells, while summer offers lush greenery. Autumn paints the woods in vibrant colours, and even winter walks are delightful under the canopy, offering shelter from the elements. The summit views are spectacular in any season, though clearest on crisp, dry days.
Parking & Public Transport
There is no dedicated car park for Orrest Head. Paid parking is available at Broad Street Car Park (LA23 1AB) in Windermere town centre. Booths supermarket car park offers a free 2-hour stay for shoppers. Limited free on-street parking can be found in residential areas, but can be busy. Windermere train station is very close by, with regular services from Oxenholme and other major lines. Frequent buses also serve Windermere station.
Safety & Preparation
The paths can be slippery and muddy when wet. Wear sturdy footwear. Ensure you have an offline map, though the route is generally well-signposted.
Difficulty & Alternatives
Easy to moderate. The ascent is steady but not overly strenuous, making it suitable for families and those with moderate fitness. The 'Miles Without Stiles' route is particularly accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Shorter, steeper shortcuts exist but are less accessible.
Recommended Shops & Pit Stops
Windermere town centre, located at the start of the walk, offers numerous cafes, pubs, and shops. 'Blacksmith Coffee' is a popular converted horsebox coffee stop located on the route.
