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Start at Lakeside long-stay car park beside the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick. Walk clockwise past the launch landings and Friar's Crag, then follow the waymarked lakeside paths through Strandshag Bay and Stable Hills to Calfclose Bay. Use the roadside footpath towards Ashness Gate rather than the low-water shore shortcut. Continue to Kettlewell, cross the road carefully and follow the woodland path towards Lodore. The signed route returns to the road by the hotel; cross with care and continue on the roadside path to the Manesty track. Cross the Chinese Bridge and boardwalks, then follow the western shore through Brandelhow to Hawse End and Nichol End. The route returns through Portinscale, across the suspension bridge and fields to Keswick, then via the town centre, Bell Close, Pack Horse Court and Hope Park to Lakeside.
Allow five hours for the complete circuit. This is a low-level walk with gates, steps, tree roots, rocky woodland paths and short road sections, including a short stretch without a pavement at Lodore. Wear walking shoes with good grip and take food, water and waterproofs. Lakeside has public parking and nearby toilets; cafes are available in Keswick and at some landing places. The southern boardwalks and shore paths can flood: never wade through floodwater, and follow current signed diversions via Grange if required, which add around 3 km. Keep dogs under control around livestock and wildlife.
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