Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows is one of the most celebrated beauty spots in the Lake District. The tarn is actually man-made, constructed by combining three smaller tarns during the 19th century.

A circular walk stretches 1.5 miles around the lake, passing through lovely woodland, and offers a very easy stroll in a spectacular setting, with views out over the lake, and to the Langdale Pikes and the Helvellyn range. When the day is clear the surface of the tarn is like a mirror, reflecting the sky and mountains. For the best colours, come on a late autumn day - when the path will be less crowded as well!

Tarn Hows is owned by the National Trust, and the Trust has created a small visitor centre and well-signed trails around the lake. There are two parking areas; the main National Trust lot, and a dedicated disabled parking nearer the tarn for relatively level access.

Tarn Hows is accessed from the B5285 between Coniston and Hawkshead. At the top of Hawkshead Hill, a minor road branches off to the north signposted to Tarn Hows. A short distance along there is another turn to the left on a minor road. This road winds through pleasant countryside until emerging from a band of trees to give views over the tarn.

The walk around Tarn Hows is now part of the Cumbria Way long distance path, and from the tarn there are several other trails branching off to Coniston, Hawkshead, the Langdales, and Yew Dale. This is one of the most heavily visited parts of the Lake District National Park, so be prepared to share the beauty with lots of other walkers!