Our favourite Lakeside walks around the UK

It’s so easy to take for granted the beauty that the UK has to offer, but with UK staycations become more popular we are truly seeing all the magnificent wonders that can be found all over the country. From dramatic coastlines to national parks, there is plenty to explore. We are feeling inspired by Sophie's Ducks collection, so we're wrapping up in our cosy Sophie Allport hats and scarfs and taking a little look at some of our favourite Lakeside walks and walking trails around the UK. 

Scotland

The South Loch Ness Trail - A Scottish treasure, Loch Ness is not to be missed and boasts an incredible 58km trail. This beautiful destination features unspoilt views of Loch Ness and connects to the Great Glen Way, with a mixture of forestry, trail tracks, lakeside walks and small roads. The South Loch Ness Trail starts from Torbreck in Inverness to Fort Augustus. Choose any section of the trail for an incredible day hiking or why not challenge yourself and walk the entire trail over a few days?

Loch Lomond - Located in the south of Scotland, Loch Lomond lake forms part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and offers wide open landscapes with a variety of trails and walks around the lake. A 4km hike up Ben A’an displays exceptional views of the lake, start on the banks of Loch Achray to reach the 454m summit.

England

Rutland Water - Located not far from Sophie Allport HQ, Rutland Water makes this list as for many of us here it holds memories of family walks, days out with friends and dog walks with our pups. There are lots of things to do at Rutland water, including water sports, boat trips and you can even hire bikes to cycle the 23-mile round route.

Windermere, Cumbria, Lake District - The largest natural lake in the Lake District National Park and England, Windermere is a long thin lake at 10.5 miles long and one mile wide. There are plenty of trails and walks in the Lake District, but the Loughrigg Tarn walk is approximately 7.3 miles long and offers some magnificent views of Langdale Pikes, Windermere, Helm Crag and Rydal Cave. Start in Ambleside, walk to the other side of Loughrigg Fell to Loughrigg Tarn and then back to where you started.

Wales

Llangorse, Brecon Beacons - The largest lake in South Wales, Llangorse Lake is roughly the size of 400 football pitches. There are plenty of things to do, including hiring a boat, paddleboarding, kayaking, exploring on foot and watching the wildlife that thrives there. Take the footpath leading around the western shore to the Llangasty Nature Reserve near Ty-Mawr Farm.

Lake Vyrnwy - A spot of beauty, Lake Vyrnwy has been used for fishing for over 100 years and is the largest wild trout fishery in England and Wales. There are plenty of water sports available as well as walks which cater for all abilities. The Llechwedd-du Walk is a 9.1km circular walk and has a steep descent but offers stunning views looking down on the lake and across the hills, moorland and forest.

Northern Ireland

Lough Erne - Lough Erne is the second largest lake in Northern Ireland and has more than 150 islands, some of which can be visited by boat. There are plenty of walks around the lake including the Castle Caldwell Forest trail, which has three walking routes excellent for those looking for a short walk and range from 0.3 miles to 2.5 miles long, offering views of the wooded peninsulas at the eastern end of the lake.

Lough Neagh - The largest lake by area in the UK, Lough Neagh has an impressive surface area of 151 square miles and supplies 40% of Northern Ireland’s water. It offers beautiful scenery, making it the perfect place for a hike or gentle stroll and is surrounded by some charming villages. Parts of the lake and surrounding areas were also used when filming Game of Thrones.

Inspired by walks in the countryside with her three boys, Sophie has created this beautiful Ducks collection which showcases Mallard Ducks on a wonderful stonewashed blue background and features on an array of remarkable homewares and accessories. An excellent way to bring some country style to your home. 

If you enjoyed reading about our favourite lakeside walks, then you'll enjoy our blog 7 Quacktastic Ducks Facts, you'll spot these beautiful Mallard Ducks on the majority of these wonderful walks. 

Have you visited any of these lakes or have a favourite of your own that isn’t featured here? Let us know in the comments below.