Short linear walk (1km each way) leading from the picturesque village of Hawkshead through the meadows north to Loanthwaite Lane - OS Explorer Map OL7.
The start point on Black Beck Road can be reached from the village centre by following Hawkshead Trail signs to Ambleside/Wray castle. These signs will have a cycle symbol on a blue background and the National Cycle Network number (6), so follow these and you can’t go wrong.
Alternatively, from the main Village Car Park you can head directly north on the pavement alongside the B5285 for 200 metres and then cross the road onto Black Beck Road.
Head down the Black Beck Road (a small access lane) and after 30 metres turn right in front of some cottages. Keep following the path down that is lined with traditional shard fencing made by interlocking slabs of stone, cross a bridge and then follow a stone surfaced track. At the next junction turn right and keep following the well-surfaced track through several gates. You will soon come to Scar House Lane, where you turn left and continue down this hedge lined lane (be aware that you might occasionally meet some off-road vehicles on this section). After 500 metres you will reach a minor road called Loanthwaite Lane. Turn round here and retrace your route.
You could extend your walk (on a route meeting the 'for some' standard), go east uphill on Loanthwaite Lane for 200 metres to reach a well-surfaced bridleway that leads north all the way to Outgate and beyond to Wray Castle (see MwS route 47). But be aware Loanthwaite Lane is a minor road and this section is both steep and narrow.
Black Beck Road, just off the B5285 road that goes around Hawkshead village.
Postcode: LA22 0QW
Grid reference: SD 35275 98269
W3W: ///spindles.rang.outermost
Grid reference: SD 352990
W3W: ///wreck.butterfly.remotest
Accessible toilets at LDNPA Village Car Park (RADAR key) with baby change facilities in ladies and gents (small charge for entry). Lots of cafes and restaurants in Hawkshead village..
Public Transport: The 505 stagecoach bus links Hawkshead to Kendal, Windermere and Ambleside.
Car: A593 from Ambleside, then turn left B5286 signposted to Hawkshead. LDNPA Car-park 300m on edge of village just opposite the Hawkshead clothes shop.
