Grasmere Weekend Break
Grasmere’s one of those places that just works for a walking weekend in the Lake District. It’s got that proper Lake District charm – stone cottages, mountain views, and just enough buzz without feeling hectic. Joel and I stayed here for a few days and loved how easy it was. You can walk straight out the door and be on the fells in minutes – no need to drive anywhere once you’ve arrived.
There’s a brilliant mix of walks too. You’ve got big days out like Helm Crag or the Fairfield Horseshoe if you’re feeling adventurous, but also plenty of easier routes like Easedale Tarn or the Coffin Route if you just fancy a leg-stretch. It’s ideal for mixing things up depending on the weather (or how much cake you’ve had).
And speaking of cake – Grasmere is well-stocked with cosy cafes, pubs and of course the famous gingerbread shop. After a long walk, there’s nothing better than kicking off your boots and tucking into something delicious by the fire.
Why a Walking Weekend in Grasmere?
There’s something really special about Grasmere. It’s small enough to feel peaceful, but there’s still plenty going on – great cafés, pubs and a couple of shops for emergency snacks or forgotten socks. The village itself is ridiculously pretty, with stone buildings, flower-filled gardens and mountain views in every direction. If you’re into your Wordsworth, there’s the whole literary thing too – his old home, Dove Cottage, is just down the road.
But for us, the best bit was the location. You’re right in the middle of the Lakes, so it’s perfect for walking – proper fell walks, gentle lakeside rambles, and everything in between.
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Best Hotels in Grasmere
We stayed at Bridge House Hotel which turned out to be a great shout. It was just a short stroll from the village centre but still felt nice and quiet. The staff were great – they didn’t bat an eyelid when we turned up soaked after a particularly soggy walk! Breakfast was spot on – the kind that keeps you going until a very late lunch – and we could walk straight from the door onto the trails.
The rooms were lovely – just big enough for us two. The hotel also offers complimentary afternoon tea, which was very welcome after a day’s hiking – if you can, eat it out on the Wordsworth Terrace where there is a super friendly robin.
The staff were really helpful – the receptionist even lent me her umbrella on a wet day so we could nip out for dinner!
If you’re after other options, The Inn at Grasmere looked lovely and has a pool if you’re into that kind of thing. For something more budget-friendly, YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe is in a great spot and gets good reviews. And if you’re feeling fancy, Forest Side is just outside the village and very swish.
Our Weekend Walking Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and A Wander
We got to Grasmere mid-afternoon and wanted a quick walk to stretch our legs before dinner. We headed up to Helm Crag, Gibson Knott, Calf Crag and Steel Fell. This 7 mile walk has a short but steep climb, with amazing views and ticks off 4 Wainwrights. You can get the route here:
Helm Crag, Gibson Knott, Calf Crag and Steel Fell | 7 Miles
If you fancy something flatter, a wander to Rydal Cave is also lovely and perfect at golden hour.
Rydal Cave Walk, Ambleside | 2 Miles
Because we’d booked a package with the hotel that included breakfast and dinner, we took advantage of this and ate at the 1769 Bar and Grill at the Inn at Grasmere – solid pub food and good beer. Always a winning combo!
Day 2: The Big Hike
This was our full-on walking day. We did the Kentmere Horseshoe, which is a cracking route – loads of variety and big views all the way round (just not when we went!). I’ve shared the full route here:
You could also do the Fairfield Horseshoe, another brilliant day hike.
Fairfield Horseshoe Hiking Route | 11 Miles
Day 3: A Slower Start Before Heading Home
For our final morning, we jumped in the car and headed over to Rannerdale to climb Rannerdale Knotts (and see the bluebells). If you wanted to stay in Grasmere you could try a walk along the Coffin Route to Rydal. It’s peaceful, full of views, and just the right amount of effort after a big hike the day before. There’s a great little tearoom at Rydal Hall perfect for a coffee stop, then loop back to Grasmere. Don’t forget to visit the Grot at Rydal Hall – it’s a must-see (especially the view from the window)!
You could easily squeeze in one more short walk before heading home – or just stock up on gingerbread and hit the road.
Handy Tips for a Walking Weekend in Grasmere
Weather gear: Always pack for all seasons – we had sunshine, sideways rain, and low cloud, sometimes all within an hour.
Parking: The hotel had it’s own car parking, which was a consideration when we were booking. The village car park is pricey but central.
Public transport: The bus from Windermere drops you right in the village – great if you’re going car-free.
Dog-friendly? Yes – loads of the pubs and cafés are happy for you to bring your dog in, and the walks are generally good for four-legged friends. Remember to keep them on a lead during nesting season. The Inn at Grasmere has dog-friendly rooms.
Best time to go: Spring and autumn are gorgeous – fewer crowds, colourful scenery and cooler temps for walking. Summer can be busier, but early starts help.
Grasmere made such a good base for a walking weekend – it had everything we needed. The mix of walks, the scenery, the food – we’d go back in a heartbeat. Next time I think we’d try a couple of different routes (seeing the views from the Fairfield Horseshoe is still on the list) and maybe go in late autumn to catch the colours, or summer to actually get some views! But honestly? You can’t go too far wrong here with a walking weekend in Grasmere!
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