Gummer's How
A short, steep hike to a summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, especially magical at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light on the lake
Gummer's How
Best Time
Golden light on the lake
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, steep hike to a summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, especially magical at sunset.
"One of the best views in the UK from here, overlooking Windermere lake."
🎯 Arrive early for sunset
Beat the crowds and secure the best spot for sunset views.
👟 Wear sturdy walking shoes
The path is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake District Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. A truly unforgettable sight.
Golden Hour Sunset Spectacle
Summit
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow over the landscape.
Friendly Bovine Companions
Summit
Often, you'll share the summit with curious cows who seem to appreciate the stunning scenery just as much as you do.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Short Hike, Big Rewards
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for sunset
Beat the crowds and secure the best spot for sunset views.
👟 Wear sturdy walking shoes
The path is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain.
🚗 Free car park available
Gummer's How Car Park is free and conveniently located near the trailhead.
🐶 Dog-friendly adventure
Well-behaved dogs are welcome and often enjoy the hike too!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for sunset
Beat the crowds and secure the best spot for sunset views.
👟 Wear sturdy walking shoes
The path is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain.
🚗 Free car park available
Gummer's How Car Park is free and conveniently located near the trailhead.
🐶 Dog-friendly adventure
Well-behaved dogs are welcome and often enjoy the hike too!
📸 Capture epic photos
The panoramic views are a photographer's dream, especially at golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gummer's How for its stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset, and its accessibility via a short, rewarding hike. Many highlight the free parking and family-friendly nature of the walk, making it a top choice for a quick, scenic adventure in the Lake District. Some note the steepness of the path and potential for crowds during peak times.
"Loved this. Went from car park to hilltop with my 5 year old. Half hour each way. Daughter thought of it as a mountain climbing adventure, but at no point was I worried about her safety, despite it being a bit blustery.
Lovely view and cows at the top."
Jamie Whitehouse
"Great views from the top, even in adverse weather! Bet it looks amazing on a clear sunny day. Steep walk and slippery but easy enough if you're fit and healthy."
Tony Henry
"Great easy little walk. Big car park. One of the best views in the lakes. If you’re lucky enough, you may see military aircraft doing low flying over Windermere."
James Harper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gummer's How is located at the southeast end of Lake Windermere. The most common access point is via the Gummer's How Car Park (LA12 8NL), which is free and conveniently located. From the car park, cross the road and follow the well-marked path towards the summit.
Yes, there is a dedicated Gummer's How Car Park. It's free and often mentioned as a great starting point for the walk.
While direct public transport to the immediate trailhead is limited, you can reach nearby villages like Bowness-on-Windermere by bus or ferry and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the car park.
From the A590, take the exit for Gummer's How and follow the signs. The road leading to the car park is well-signposted.
The main path to the summit is steep and uneven, making it challenging for wheelchairs. However, the views from the car park area are still quite pleasant.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entry fees required to visit Gummer's How. The car park is also free.
Gummer's How is an outdoor natural landmark and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The Gummer's How Car Park is free to use, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the steep and potentially slippery terrain. It's best enjoyed during daylight or twilight for sunset.
No booking is required. Gummer's How is a natural attraction open to all visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk from the car park to the summit is typically around 30 minutes, though it can be done in as little as 20 minutes if you're quick. It's a steep but short ascent.
The walk is generally considered easy to medium. It's steep in places but short, making it manageable for most. Sturdy footwear is advised.
From the summit, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere, the surrounding fells, and the picturesque countryside.
Yes, it's a popular choice for families. The short, steep hike is often described as a fun 'mountain climbing adventure' for kids.
The main facility is the car park. There are no restrooms or visitor centers directly at the summit.
📸 📸 Photography
The hour before sunset is highly recommended for the 'golden hour' light that bathes the landscape in a warm glow. Sunrise is also a beautiful, less crowded option.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramic views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots, especially in lower light conditions.
The summit itself offers the best vantage points. Look for clearings that provide unobstructed views of Lake Windermere and the fells.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. It's advisable to check the Lake District National Park Authority guidelines before flying a drone.
Clear days offer the best visibility for distant fells. However, dramatic skies with clouds can also create stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Reaching the summit offers incredible panoramic views that will captivate both young and old. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the beauty of the Lake District and encourage an appreciation for nature. The presence of cows at the top can also be a fun surprise for kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
The hike itself is short and requires no special equipment beyond comfortable walking shoes. You can pack your own picnic to enjoy at the summit, further saving on costs. It's an ideal destination for a day trip that offers maximum scenic value for minimal expense.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping panoramas of Lake Windermere and the fells. A tripod will be invaluable for capturing those magical sunset shots. Don't limit yourself to sunset; sunrise also offers stunning photographic opportunities with fewer crowds. Even on days with dramatic cloud formations, Gummer's How provides a dramatic backdrop. The accessibility and free parking make it easy to visit multiple times to capture different lighting conditions and seasons.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gummer's How Walk: A Traveler's Guide
Many travelers, including families with young children, find this walk manageable and enjoyable. The path can be a bit rocky and slippery, especially after rain, so wearing sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots is highly recommended.
The effort is well worth it, as the summit provides unparalleled panoramic views. Some visitors even compare the experience to a 'mountain climbing adventure' for kids, highlighting its appeal across different age groups. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the views from the car park area are still quite impressive. However, the true magic of Gummer's How lies in reaching the summit. Whether you're aiming for a sunrise spectacle or a breathtaking sunset, the walk offers a memorable outdoor adventure in the heart of the Lake District.
+1Capturing the Magic: Photography at Gummer's How
When planning your photo session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive 360-degree panorama. A tripod can also be beneficial, especially if you're staying for sunset or plan to capture long-exposure shots of the water. The summit offers numerous vantage points, so take your time to explore and find the composition that best suits your vision.
+1Beyond sunset, sunrise also offers a unique photographic opportunity with fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere. On clear days, the visibility extends for miles, allowing you to capture the full majesty of the Lake District. Even on cloudier days, dramatic skies can add a sense of mood and depth to your photographs.
+1 Remember to check local drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial footage. Gummer's How with Kids and Pets
For those with furry companions, Gummer's How is a dog-friendly location. Many visitors bring their dogs along, and they seem to thoroughly enjoy the walk and the expansive views. Some reviewers mention carrying their dogs when they were puppies, and now as adults, they still love adventuring there.
+1 It's a great opportunity for both kids and pets to experience the beauty of the Lake District. Remember to keep pets under control, especially near the cows that sometimes graze at the summit. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit