Tarn Hows, located in the picturesque Lake District of Cumbria, is a popular destination for nature lovers and picnic enthusiasts. With its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and accessible circular walk, Tarn Hows offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day out. Whether you’re planning a romantic picnic for two or a family gathering, Tarn Hows has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll provide tips on finding the best picnic spots at Tarn Hows, including some hidden gems that offer breathtaking views. We’ll also explore the local food options available, from traditional British picnic fare to more exotic options. And for those looking to add some fun to their picnic, we’ll suggest some outdoor games that are perfect for all ages. So pack your basket and join us for a perfect day out at Tarn Hows.
Getting to Tarn Hows
When planning a picnic at Tarn Hows, it’s important to consider how to get there. The location is easily accessible by both public transport and car, and there are plenty of parking options available.
Public transport options
For those who prefer to use public transport, the closest train station to Tarn Hows is Windermere, which is approximately 7 miles away. From there, visitors can take a bus to Coniston and then transfer to another bus that will take them to Tarn Hows. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and costs around £6 per person.
Driving and parking
Driving to Tarn Hows is also a convenient option. The area is well signposted and easy to find. Visitors can use the postcode LA22 0PP to navigate to the car park. The road to Tarn Hows is unsuitable for large coaches, so visitors with larger vehicles should park in the nearby village of Coniston and walk there.
The car park at Tarn Hows has 68 spaces available, and there are public toilets adjacent to the car park. It is a pay and display car park, and the cost is £6 for up to 4 hours or £8 for the whole day. Visitors should make sure to bring cash as there are no card payment options available.
Overall, getting to Tarn Hows is easy and convenient, whether visitors choose to use public transport or drive. With plenty of parking options available, visitors can be sure they will find a space for their vehicle.
Tarn Hows
Choosing the Perfect Picnic Spot
When planning a picnic at Tarn Hows, choosing the perfect spot is key to ensuring a memorable experience. Here are some tips for finding the ideal location:
Scenic Locations
Tarn Hows is known for its stunning scenery, and there are plenty of spots to choose from that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside. One popular option is the west shore, which offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding hills. Another great spot is the eastern shore, which is surrounded by trees and offers a more secluded atmosphere.
Shaded Areas
On a hot summer day, finding a shaded spot to have your picnic can be a lifesaver. Fortunately, Tarn Hows has plenty of options for those seeking respite from the sun. The north shore is lined with trees and offers plenty of shaded areas to set up your picnic blanket. The south shore also has some shaded spots, particularly near the car park.
When choosing your picnic spot, keep in mind that some areas may be more crowded than others, especially during peak season. It’s a good idea to arrive early to secure your spot, or consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience.
Overall, Tarn Hows offers a range of picnic spots to suit every taste, from scenic vistas to shady spots to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Local Food Options
When planning a picnic at Tarn Hows, it’s important to consider the local food options available. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce or pre-prepared meals, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Farmers’ markets and local shops
For those who prefer to create their own picnic spread, there are several local farmers’ markets and shops to visit. The Ambleside Farmers’ Market is held every other Saturday and offers a range of fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, and artisan bread. Alternatively, the Hawkshead Relish Company Shop in Hawkshead offers a selection of chutneys, pickles, and relishes that are perfect for adding flavour to sandwiches or salads.
Cafes and restaurants
If you’re looking for pre-prepared food options, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer takeaway options. The Chesters by the River Cafe in Skelwith Bridge offers a range of sandwiches, quiches, and cakes that are perfect for a picnic. Alternatively, the Dr Brews Coffee shop in Ambleside offers a selection of pastries and cakes that are perfect for a sweet treat.
For those who prefer a more substantial meal, the Tower Bank Arms in Sawrey offers a takeaway menu that includes pies, sandwiches, and burgers. Alternatively, the Outgate Inn in Hawkshead offers a range of pub classics, including fish and chips and steak and ale pie.
No matter what your food preferences are, there are plenty of local options available to make your picnic at Tarn Hows a delicious and memorable experience.
Outdoor Games and Activities
Tarn Hows is not only a beautiful picnic destination but also offers a variety of outdoor games and activities for all ages. Whether you want to play traditional games or enjoy water activities, there is something for everyone.
Traditional Games
Traditional games are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with family and friends. Tarn Hows offers a variety of options for traditional games such as frisbee, kite flying, and football. Additionally, visitors can bring their own games such as badminton, volleyball, or even a game of horseshoes.
For those who enjoy board games, Tarn Hows has several picnic tables where visitors can enjoy a game of chess, checkers, or cards. Visitors can also bring their own board games and enjoy playing them in the beautiful surroundings of Tarn Hows.
Leave No Trace!
When visiting a beauty spot it is really important to leave no trace of your visit, apart from footprints. Remember to bring your own rubbish bags and please take all your rubbish away with you. Tarn Hows does have some rubbish disposal bins but they can quickly be filled on a busy day.
There’s nothing worse than seeing discarded plastic bottles and litter left by senseless people. On one visit we were shocked to see a family finish their picnic and just head back to the car park, leaving litter behind them. We called after them “Hey, you’ve left something!” and pointed out all their litter. Sheepishly, they picked it all up and put it in the car park bin.
A former British Military Officer, Eddie went on to study History and then Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University. A keen outdoorsman, he has co-written several books on Outdoor Survival and Wild Camping. Now living in Penrith, Ed is a keen fellrunner.
