Downstream to Derwent Walk, Borrowdale and Derwent Water

This gentle linear route drops downstream from the head of Borrowdale, starting high at Honister Slate Mine and finishing near the southern shore of Derwent Water. It's a short and largely downhill outing that packs in a great deal of Lakeland variety, from working slate landscape to riverside pasture.

From Honister you follow the tumbling waters of Hause Gill down the pass, with a chance to pause at Honister's Yew Tree Coffee House before the path eases into the valley floor. The route then threads through classic Borrowdale scenery, passing Borrowdale YHA and continuing to the crossing at Stang Dub. Ancient oakwoods such as Johnny Wood and High Stile Wood lie close at hand, and the little church of St Andrew and The Flock-in farm café are within easy reach for a detour.

With just 135 m of ascent spread over a descending 4.9 km, it's an ideal introduction to the valley for walkers who want big fell views without a big climb. Allow around an hour and a quarter at a steady pace.