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Just south of Patterdale, this sheltered walk around Brothers Water takes you alongside the lake, over rivers, past fields and farmland, all with dramatic views of the surrounding valley and hills. Mostly following a gravel path with a gentle, flat gradient, it’s a great choice for families, little legs, pushchairs and those looking for a more relaxed stroll. Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop along the lakeshore, explore and take in the scenery.
This gorgeous walk features on our guide to the best pram-friendly walks in the Lake District.
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When planning your visit to the National Park, please arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds if visiting over sunny weekends or school holidays. Please also take all litter home with you, don’t bring BBQs, and park your car in designated parking areas. Also, please use these walks as a guide; access and stiles may change.
PARKING INFORMATION: Please do not rely solely on the postcode for parking directions. In the National Park, a postcode can cover a large area. Postcodes are only provided as guidance. Please either use the Google Maps point or what3words, which are provided on every walk guide.
Brothers Water walk map
On all Lake District family walks it’s a good idea to have an Ordnance Survey paper map with you, even if you have your phone on you. For this walk you need the Ordnance Survey Explorer OL5 (The English Lakes – North-eastern Area). It’s also a good opportunity to show young kids the map features and get them started with map reading.
Need to know
DISTANCE OF WALK: 4.3km / 2.7 miles (each way 2.2km / 0.8 mile)
TERRAIN: Flat, gravel footpath, pram-friendly.
PARKING: Cow Bridge car park. Click here for Google Map point on your phone. Postcode is: CA11 0NZ. You can pay by RingGo App or by card / cash at the machine (£6.50 for up to 4 hours or £9 for 9 hours).
WALK HIGHLIGHTS: Paddling and picnics, lakeside play, mountain views.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE: Allow 1.5-2 hours for adults and up to 3 hours with little ones. This will allow time for paddling and playing in/by the water.
TOTAL ASCENT: 57 metres
FACILITIES: There are no public toilets along this route. There is Sykeside Campsite and Brotherswater Inn at the halfway turning point. You could get refreshments from the shop on site or at the pub. However please check opening times.
The route
START: Cow Bridge Car Park
Click here for Google Map point
Grid reference: NY 4027 1338
Post code: CA11 0NZ
what3words: ///scarecrow.generals.fire
Route follows a linear route.
1. Turn right out of the car park and walk over the bridge.
2. Turn left through the gate onto a gravel path with the river flowing alongside you on your left and trees overhead.
3. After 340m, the path splits. Before continuing to the right, take a little detour to the left and head down towards the lakeside. Here you’ll get your first view of Brothers Water. Look across the water to the surrounding hills and mountains, and take a moment to enjoy the peaceful scenery.
4. Return to the main path and continue your walk. The lake remains on your left and there are more beaches to take advantage of for rest stops, a play or just to soak in the views. After 600m you will reach the next gate.
5. The scenery changes and Brothers Water is now behind you and there are fields to your left. In 500m go through the gate into Hartsop Hall farm yard.
6. Follow the path to the left around the house and through a field. In 250m you will reach a bridge. Stop here for a moment and look at the water below. The trees, river and mountains make this a lovely spot for a photograph.
7. Continue 150m through the gate next to the cattle grid into the Skyeside campsite. The path is now also a road which is used by campers so be careful of cars coming and going.
8. Follow the path a further 150m, through the campsite and uphill past reception until you reach Brotherswater Inn. This is the turn-around point.
9. To return, simply retrace your steps, following the path all the way back to the car park.
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Also, feel free to share your walk photos in our Lake District Kids Facebook Group or on Instagram using by tagging @lakedistrictkidsuk in your caption so we can share with our wider community.
Want more ideas for family walks? Use the search walks page to find the perfect family walk.
And if you’re hiking with little ones, check out our tips for hiking with kids under 5 to help you get a extra mile or two out of those little legs.