Brant Fell Windermere
A rewarding, accessible fell walk from Bowness offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Brant Fell Windermere
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rewarding, accessible fell walk from Bowness offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells.
"The views from the top are quite breathtaking."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path can be steep and uneven in places. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Navigate Wisely
Google Maps can be tricky. Use alternative apps or local advice to find the best trail entry points. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Windermere Views
Summit of Brant Fell
Breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells. A must-see for any visitor.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
Near Brant Fell
An accessible viewpoint offering spectacular scenery, perfect for all fitness levels and families.
Post Knott
Near Brant Fell
Another excellent vantage point providing glorious views of Windermere, especially beautiful at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on Brant Fell
Navigating the Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path can be steep and uneven in places. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Navigate Wisely
Google Maps can be tricky. Use alternative apps or local advice to find the best trail entry points. :iphone:
🐶 Dogs on Leads
Keep your furry friends on a lead due to sheep and cows grazing on the fells.
☕ Post-Hike Refreshments
Enjoy a coffee and pastry at a local cafe in Bowness after your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path can be steep and uneven in places. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant hike. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Navigate Wisely
Google Maps can be tricky. Use alternative apps or local advice to find the best trail entry points. :iphone:
🐶 Dogs on Leads
Keep your furry friends on a lead due to sheep and cows grazing on the fells.
☕ Post-Hike Refreshments
Enjoy a coffee and pastry at a local cafe in Bowness after your walk.
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
An early start rewards with stunning sunrise views over the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Brant Fell for its stunning, breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, calling it a 'lovely little hike' perfect for beginners and families. The ascent is considered manageable and rewarding, offering a peaceful escape from the busier town below. Some reviewers noted the trail can be tricky to find and steep in parts, and advised checking navigation resources beyond standard map apps.
"It was a nice walk, once you got out of Bowness, which seemed like Blackpool at it's worst. Once you start to go up the hill and leave the smell of weed, chips and stale beer behind, the walk is quite easy and pleasant. The views from the top are quite breathtaking. Please note, dogs will need to be on leads, as their are sheep in abundance on this walk, and a few friendly cows too!"
Karl B
"Lovely little hike with amazing view. It’s little difficult to find the entry point but trail is there and easy for beginners and kids as well. The place gives a very peaceful vibes and feels closer to nature. Definitely recommend."
srishti singh
"I'm sure it's beautiful in better weather. Easy short route from Bowness."
Felicity Godfrey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brant Fell is easily accessible from Bowness-on-Windermere, a short walk from the town center. Many visitors start their ascent from Bowness.
Parking is available in Bowness-on-Windermere, but it can get busy, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Yes, buses run frequently to Bowness-on-Windermere from surrounding towns, making it accessible via public transport.
While Google Maps can be used, some find it tricky. Local signage or apps like AllTrails can provide more reliable navigation.
The main paths are generally for walking. While some may cycle parts, it's primarily a hiking destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Brant Fell is a natural fell and is free to access. There are no admission fees.
Brant Fell is open 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
There is no entrance fee to access Brant Fell. It's a public access area within the Lake District National Park.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to potential navigation difficulties and safety concerns.
While official guided tours might be limited, local walking groups or guides may offer excursions. Check local tourist information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit of Brant Fell is relatively short, often taking around 30-60 minutes round trip from Bowness, depending on your pace.
It's considered an easy to moderate hike, suitable for beginners and families. Some sections can be steep, so walking sticks are helpful for some.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Lake Windermere, Bowness, and the surrounding fells.
There are no facilities at the summit itself. You'll find amenities like cafes and restrooms in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Yes, Brant Fell is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a lead due to livestock.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bowness-on-Windermere, at the base of Brant Fell, offers numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
Yes, several cafes in Bowness offer lovely views of the lake, and some are located near the start of the Brant Fell walk.
You'll find a variety of options, from traditional pub fare and fish and chips to international cuisine and modern cafes.
Yes, you can bring your own food for a picnic. The summit offers a beautiful spot to enjoy your meal with a view.
Absolutely! Bowness has several highly-rated coffee shops, including those offering pastries and a cozy atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots. Also, explore viewpoints like Post Knott for different perspectives.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. Golden hour provides a warm glow over the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots.
Look out for the beacon on Brant Fell during commemorative events, and the Belted Galloway calves often seen nearby.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check the latest regulations for the Lake District National Park before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many find it a great way to escape the busier parts of Bowness. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear. The nearby town of Bowness offers plenty of family-friendly dining options and activities on the lake. 🐶 Dog Owners
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Brant Fell Hike: A Beginner's Guide
The trail offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the bustle of Bowness, which some find akin to 'Blackpool at its worst' with its busy atmosphere. As you climb, the sounds of the town fade, replaced by the tranquility of nature. The summit provides breathtaking, unobstructed views across Lake Windermere, showcasing its vastness and the surrounding fells. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to soak in the scenery.
For those seeking slightly different perspectives, nearby viewpoints like Orrest Head and Post Knott offer equally stunning, though subtly different, vistas. These spots are also easily accessible and contribute to the overall charm of the Windermere area for walkers. Remember to keep dogs on leads due to the presence of sheep and cows.
Capturing the Magic: Photography on Brant Fell
The best times for photography are undoubtedly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light casts a magical glow over the landscape, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors. Many visitors have shared stunning sunrise shots, highlighting the peaceful start to the day.
For those who prefer a more dramatic sky, consider visiting after a rain shower when the light can be particularly striking. Beyond the main summit, explore nearby viewpoints like Post Knott and Orrest Head for alternative compositions. These spots offer unique angles and can be less crowded, providing a more intimate photography experience. Don't forget to capture the details too – the textures of the fells, the reflections on the water, and perhaps even some of the local wildlife like Belted Galloway calves.
+1Windermere's Charm: Beyond the Hike
For those looking to enjoy the lake itself, options abound. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips are popular ways to experience Windermere from the water. Some visitors even enjoy a 'cold dip' or wild swimming for a refreshing adventure.
Accommodation options range from cozy B&Bs, like one that shares a name with a traveler's mother's maiden name, to hotels and self-catering apartments, making it a versatile destination for various types of travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit