As 2024 approaches, many people will be starting to think about making their New Year's Resolution. If you're stuck for an idea, instead of swerving chocolate, why not aim to complete this list of walks before next year.

 

Catbells in Keswick

The route up one of the most popular fells in the area starts from Hawes End car park and is about 2.3 miles.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 1,736 reviews on Trip Advisor, one said: “Fantastic hike that has gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside and Derwentwater with sheep along the way! The entire surrounding area is so beautiful with lots of hikes below the Catbells through gates, across fields and along the lakeside.”

 

Old Man of Coniston

At 803m tall, this is one of the highest fells in the Lake District. There are a number of different routes of various distances, inclines and difficulty so it is best to do some research before setting off.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 674 reviews, one said: “Absolutely amazing hike to the summit. We stopped at the tarn and had a swim on the way. Steep and should be undertaken with care and ensuring proper footwear and clothing. “

 

Scafell Pike 

The highest mountain in England is 978m tall and can take up to six hours to climb. There are routes starting from Langdale, Hardknott, Eskdale and Wasdale.            

Rated 4.5 out of 5 over 588 reviews, one said: “A brilliant challenge and a trip that made us proud. I massively underestimated how hard the climb would be though!”

 

Helvellyn

England's third highest mountain stands at 3,118 feet and provides a number of routes, from a short three mile walk to an extended hike along the Ridges of Striding and Swirral Edge.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 333 reviews, one said: “If you need to top up your adrenaline, highly recommended!”

 

Keswick Railway Path

The walk to Threlkeld is about three miles each way and is suitable for walkers, runners, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and cyclists.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 over 316 reviews, one said: “A really lovely relaxing easy walk on flat ground. Suitable for all ages and abilities.  So much to see along the way. Plenty of benches and interesting information boards along the way. Good photo opportunities.”

 

Helm Crag in Grasmere

The most popular route to the summit starts from Grasmere and is approximately four miles long.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 319 reviews, one said: “The walk is wonderful and not too difficult - a bit steep in a couple of parts but a good clear path up and down. However, the views from the top are amazing and well worth the climb.”

 

Hallin Fell at Pooley Bridge

Described as a ‘great route for beginners’ a short but steep walk to the top, from the old Church will take about an hour.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 187 reviews, one said: “Awesome walk and the views are to die for, would certainly recommend this walk steady uphill from Pooley Bridge but manageable for most.”

 

Walla Crag in Keswick

The circular route via Ashness Bridge provides views over Derwentwater and takes an average of 3.5 hours to complete.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 189 reviews, one said: “Fantastic walk and easy enough to reach the summit for all ages and the best views over Derwentwater!”

 

Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall in Eskdale

The steep path along a ravine that takes you to the viewing platform is about 2km.

Rated 5 out of 5 over 97 reviews, one said: “Definitely worth a look. A nice walk, suitable for less experienced walkers, with outstanding views. The force itself was breathtaking, with a viewing platform that overhangs the gorge as if defying gravity!”

 

Brant Fell above Bowness

Described as a medium difficulty walk over grassy paths, the route covers about 2 miles with views over Windermere.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 over 169 reviews, one said: “Climbed on a fine day and experienced lovely views over a wide area. Steady incline with Rocky outcrops in grassland.”