Bleaberry Tarn

Bleaberry Tarn is a small natural mountain tarn located near Buttermere in the English Lake District. It is situated in a corrie below the Lakeland fells of Red Pike and High Stile, backed by Chapel Crags on the ridge between them. The footpath ascending Red Pike from Buttermere skirts its north side.

The tarn is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, with its outfall cascading over the rocks of Sour Milk Gill which can be seen from both the path and from the village. The walk up to Bleaberry Tarn from the village of Buttermere is deservedly popular. The views of Buttermere, Crummock Water and surrounding fells, which open up once the trees are left behind, are simply magnificent. Continuing a little further on to Red Pike is well worth the effort on a clear day as many of the Lake District fells can be seen.

Bleaberry Tarn is a glacial corrie lake established at the foot of Dodd. Dodd, which has a Nuttall classification, achieves a height of 641m, and is the west wall of the Bleaberry corrie. Red Pike, Chapel Crags and High Stile make up the remaining corrie walls. Between Red Pike and Dodd is The Saddle, which drops from the Red Pike summit of. The tarn stands at an elevation of 497 m (1,631 ft) and its approximate depth is 5 m (16 ft). Its outflow, named Sour Milk Gill, descends from the tarn before entering Buttermere Lake.

Getting There

From Keswick

Bleaberry Tarn is located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. If you are coming from Keswick, the easiest way to get there is to take the A66 towards Cockermouth. Then, turn left onto the B5292 towards Buttermere. After a few miles, you will reach a junction where you should turn right towards Honister Pass. Follow the road for about a mile, and you will see a car park on your right-hand side. This is the starting point for the walk.

From Buttermere Village

If you are coming from Buttermere Village, you can start the walk from the village itself. Simply follow the road towards Honister Pass, and you will see a signpost for Bleaberry Tarn. The walk starts from a gate on the left-hand side of the road, just after the National Trust field.

The path is well-defined and easy to follow, with a fence on your left-hand side and a field edge on your right. After a short distance, you will reach a footbridge over Sour Milk Gill, which is a great spot for taking photos. From here, the path becomes steeper and more challenging, but the views are well worth the effort.

It is important to note that the walk to Bleaberry Tarn is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. The path can be uneven and rocky in places, and there are several steep sections. However, for those who are able to make the journey, the reward is a stunning view of one of the Lake District’s most beautiful tarns.

The Hike

Bleaberry Tarn is a popular destination for hikers in the Lake District. The circular walk to Bleaberry Tarn and Red Pike is a challenging but rewarding excursion that offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and lakes.

Ascent

The hike begins in the village of Buttermere and follows a steep ascent up to Bleaberry Tarn. The path winds its way through Burtness Wood and Sour Milk Gill before climbing up the hillside towards the tarn. The ascent is steep in places, with some sections requiring walkers to scramble over rocks and boulders. However, the effort is well worth it, as the views of Buttermere and the surrounding fells are simply breathtaking.

Summit Views

After reaching Bleaberry Tarn, walkers can continue on to Red Pike, which offers panoramic views of the Western Fells. The ascent to Red Pike is steep and requires some scrambling, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort. On a clear day, walkers can see as far as Fleetwith Pike, Grasmoor, Knott Rigg, Haystacks, and High Crag.

Descent

The descent from Red Pike follows a steep and rocky path down to Buttermere Edge. The path then follows the ridge of Lad Howes and Ard Crags before descending towards Moss Force and Newlands Hause. The final section of the descent follows Fleetwith Edge, which offers stunning views of the valley below.

Overall, the circular walk to Bleaberry Tarn and Red Pike is a challenging but rewarding excursion that offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and lakes. The height profile of the hike shows a steep ascent and descent, with gradients ranging from 10% to 25%. The path includes some zigzags and rocky sections, so walkers should be prepared for a challenging hike.

Difficulty

Bleaberry Tarn is a challenging hike that requires a moderate level of fitness and stamina. The trail is steep and rocky in some places, and hikers need to be careful while navigating the terrain. It is essential to wear appropriate hiking boots with good grip to avoid slipping on the rocks.

The trail to Bleaberry Tarn is not suitable for beginners or those with mobility issues. The ascent is steep and strenuous, and hikers need to be in good physical condition to complete the hike. It is recommended to start early in the day to avoid hiking in the heat of the afternoon.

Hikers should also be prepared for changing weather conditions. The Lake District is known for its unpredictable weather, and hikers can experience rain, wind, and fog even on a clear day. It is advisable to carry warm clothing, a raincoat, and sufficient water and food supplies.

It is recommended to hire a guide if you are not familiar with the trail or the area. A guide can provide valuable information about the trail and the surrounding areas and ensure that hikers stay safe while hiking. Guides can also help hikers navigate the terrain and provide assistance in case of an emergency.

In summary, Bleaberry Tarn is a challenging hike that requires a moderate level of fitness and stamina. It is essential to wear appropriate hiking gear, carry sufficient supplies, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Hiring a guide is recommended for those who are not familiar with the trail or the area.

Accommodation

Visitors to Bleaberry Tarn have a variety of accommodation options available to them. The village of Buttermere, located at the start of the walk, offers a range of lodging, including hotels, inns, and B&Bs. Here are some of the options available:

The Bridge Hotel

The Bridge Hotel is a charming, family-run hotel located in the heart of Buttermere. The hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms, many of which have stunning views of the surrounding fells. Visitors can enjoy a hearty breakfast in the morning before setting out on their walk. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, offering a selection of local ales and delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

The Fish Inn

The Fish Inn is a traditional Lakeland inn located just a short walk from Buttermere. The inn offers cozy rooms, each with its own unique character and charm. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal in the inn’s restaurant, which specializes in fresh fish and seafood dishes. The inn also has a bar, which serves a wide selection of local ales and spirits.

Other options for accommodation in the area include B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Visitors looking for a more secluded experience may want to consider staying in one of the cottages located in the surrounding countryside.

Overall, visitors to Bleaberry Tarn have a variety of accommodation options available to them in the nearby village of Buttermere. Whether you’re looking for a cozy inn or a luxurious hotel, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

The Tarn

Bleaberry Tarn is a picturesque natural mountain tarn located near Buttermere in the English Lake District. The tarn lies in a corrie below the Lakeland fells of Red Pike and High Stile, backed by Chapel Crags on the ridge between them. Its approximate elevation is 497 m (1,631 ft) and its depth is around 5 m (16 ft). The tarn’s outflow, named Sour Milk Gill, cascades down the rocks before entering Buttermere Lake.

Alfred Wainwright

The celebrated fellwalker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright described Bleaberry Tarn as “secluded” and suggested it formed in a “natural hollow.” He also noted that the tarn is a popular stop for walkers on their way up Red Pike, with its waters providing a refreshing break after a steep upward climb.

Tarns

A tarn is a small mountain lake or pool formed in a hollow or corrie, often located high up in the hills. Tarns are typically fed by rainfall or snowmelt and can be found in various shapes and sizes. Bleaberry Tarn is one of many tarns in the Lake District, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscape.

The Saddle, Trout, and High Snockrigg are nearby fells that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The Saddle is a popular destination for hikers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fells and valleys. Trout is a smaller fell located between Red Pike and High Stile. High Snockrigg is a less well-known fell, but still offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Bleaberry Tarn is a beautiful natural feature in the Lake District, surrounded by stunning fells and offering a refreshing stop for hikers on their way up Red Pike. Its secluded location and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.

Conclusion

Bleaberry Tarn is a small natural mountain tarn located near Buttermere in the English Lake District. It is a popular destination for seasoned walkers and hikers, who enjoy the scenic route, rugged summits, and sweeping views of the surrounding area. The steep hillside leading up to the tarn is covered in heather, making it a beautiful sight to behold during the summer months.

The calm waters of Bleaberry Tarn are a welcome sight after the challenging hike up the rocky descent. The tarn is surrounded by rocky crags and offers a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to take in the natural beauty of the area.

The Saddle, located between Red Pike and Dodd, drops from the Red Pike summit and offers a challenging hike for those who are up for the task. Seasoned walkers will enjoy the scenic route and the stunning views of Buttermere Lake and Blea Tarn.

Overall, Bleaberry Tarn offers a unique experience for visitors to the Lake District. The calm waters, rugged terrain, and sweeping views make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area. Whether you are a seasoned walker or a beginner, Bleaberry Tarn has something to offer everyone who is willing to take on the challenge.