This walk is mainly flat on prepared paths, but there are some sections where the going is a little rougher and these can be wet underfoot after rain.  

It gives a great introduction to the woodland and shoreline on the west side of Derwent Water. As a broadly out and back route the walk can easily be shortened (or extended…). 

Starting at the village crossroad, head south along Finkle Street towards the lake, passing Derwent Water Marina and then Derwent Bank on your left.  Take the next left to Nichol End Marine and then the path up the right out of the marina to continue past Fawepark.  This is the first of two large victorian houses you pass designed by Alfred Waterhouse. You now walk through the woodlands of Fawe Park until you get to the second at Lingholm.  You will see Lingholm’s carpark on your right, and leaving the footpath entrance and drive on your left you cross the road to the path that continues through the woods. Follow the path to the edge of the woods, and the welcoming view of Skelgill Bank and the route up to Cat Bells.

Cross the field to the next gate and then slightly uphill through the wood to meet the Hawse End road. Turn left on the road, pass the gates to Derwent Bay on your left and in a few metres at a gap in the fence turn left and go down a steep bank to the jetty and lakeshore at Hawse End.  There are marvellous views across the lake and to the fells to the north & east.  The shore here is a wonderful place for a picnic and there is lots of interesting things for kids to explore. You can now follow this shore to the southernmost extremity of the lake before returning to Portinscale.