A famous reservoir in the Lake District has been crowned among 'the best lush woodland walks'.

The arrival of spring signals significantly warmer and lighter days ahead, so what better way than to get out and explore Cumbria's majestic landscape?

James Stewart wrote in The Sunday Times: "Transform your springtime stomps by taking the path less travelled and choosing a new route from the 173,000 acres of UK woodland, which are, in fact, vestiges of temperate rainforest.

"As well as being hotspots for thriving biodiversity, they are enchanting places to visit where you’ll stumble across secret gorges and spot rare birdlife.

"Here are the ones worth pulling on your wellies for — with lovely places to put your feet up afterwards."

RSPB Haweswater, Bampton, Cumbria

Coming in at number 5. See their full list here.

"The RSPB has taken Naddle Farm in the east Lake District under its wing to protect a tract of ancient forest where walkers can come to spot pied flycatchers, ring ouzels, peregrine falcons and merlins," Stewart said.

He continued: "The reserve also includes a mosaic of upland habitats — where you can spot fell ponies grazing — and Haweswater Reservoir itself."

Recommended reading:

North West Water took steps to prevent water wastage in 1996

GO Outdoors reveals the 10 best walks in the Lake District

Arnside and Silverdale among 10 best destinations for spring

Haweswater’s rugged landscape can be discovered through a variety of hiking trails.

"Stay at the Haweswater to take it all in from your bedroom window and to wake up perfectly positioned for hikes up Harter Fell and wanders along Measand Beck."

Details B&B doubles from £179 (haweswaterhotel.com)

Wild Haweswater is a partnership between the RSPB and United Utilities, working together in this stunning landscape to benefit wildlife, water and people.