Walking by Elter Water and Loughrigg Tarn
Recommended by
Our view
"Bluebell woods, a lake, a tarn, a waterfall and Little Loughrigg make this a memorable outing."
Walk directions
Pass through a small gate to walk downstream above Great Langdale Beck. Continue into the woods of Rob Rash. A gate leads through the stone wall; the open foot of Elter Water lies to the right. Continue along the path through the meadows above the river. Note that this section can be wet and is prone to occasional flooding. Pass through the gate and enter woods. Pass a footbridge over the river, then pass Skelwith Force waterfall down to the right. Steps and metal bridges lead to a viewing point above the falls. Keep along the path to pass through industrial buildings formerly belonging to Kirkstone Quarry.
Chesters by the River café is on the right as the path becomes a small surfaced road. Continue ahead to meet the A593 by the bridge over the river, where there are picnic benches. Turn left to pass the hotel. At the road junction, cross the Great Langdale road to climb a steep, narrow lane. At a T-junction turn right over a bridge then left on a rocky track, which becomes a narrow path. Joining a track, turn left then fork right, passing in front of cottages. At a junction go left and then through the left-hand one of two gates. Follow the level track to overlook Loughrigg Tarn. Part-way along the tarn, cross a stile over the railings on the left.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Grassy and stony paths and tracks, surfaced lane, several stiles
Landscape
- Lake, tarn, fields, woods, open fellside, views to fells
Dog friendliness
- Under control at all times; fellside grazed by sheep
Parking
- National Trust pay-and-display car park at Elterwater village
Toilets en route
- Above car park in Elterwater village
About the walk
Although it does include steep sections of ascent and descent, this is not a particularly difficult walk, and there are outstanding views throughout. The little lake of Elter Water and the petite Loughrigg Tarn are among the prettiest stretches of water in the region. The former, really three...
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Walking in Safety
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
The Britannia Inn
A farmhouse built about 500 years ago, The Britannia became an inn during the 19th century. For many decades it was a local for quarrymen and gunpowder factory workers, who would be ama...
Wansfell and Valentine Cottage
A few minutes’ walk from the town centre at Ambleside, Wansfell and Valentine Cottage occupies an elevated position within large gardens looking across towards Lake Windermere. A modern...
Herdwick Place
A contemporary mid-terraced property.Situated in the beautiful Langdale Valley, this charming two bedroomed cottage is perfectly positioned to embark on mountain & valley walks direct f...
Herdwick Place
A contemporary mid-terraced property.Situated in the beautiful Langdale Valley, this charming two bedroomed cottage is perfectly positioned to embark on mountain & valley walks direct f...
Lowfield House and Wetherlam View
Surrounded by spectacular Lake District scenery, Lowfield House in Little Langdale is a luxurious property overlooking Little Langdale Valley and fells including Lingmoor and Wrynose Pa...
Lowfield House
Surrounded by spectacular Lake District scenery, Lowfield House in Little Langdale is a luxurious property overlooking Little Langdale Valley and fells including Lingmoor and Wrynose Pa...
Carr Crag Lodge
Detached property Carr Crag Lodge sits at the foot of the beautiful Langdale Valley in the heart of the Lake District National Park. It’s a peaceful location but only a short drive from...
Carr Crag Lodge
Detached property Carr Crag Lodge sits at the foot of the beautiful Langdale Valley in the heart of the Lake District National Park. It’s a peaceful location but only a short drive from...
Places to eat nearby View all
