The Lakes / Brothers Water
BROTHERS WATER · SHORE WALKS & ULLSWATER STAYS
Brothers Water
Brothers Water sits near Hartsop, south of Ullswater, beneath the eastern fells. Its wooded western shore offers a rewarding shorter outing, with views across the water and a path towards Hartsop Hall and Sykeside.
Last updated: 24 October 2026
A small lake with a mountain backdrop
Come to Brothers Water for time beside the lake, woodland scenery and views towards the surrounding fells. A short return walk can be just as enjoyable as a longer day in the hills.
The lake was formerly known as Broad Water. A local tradition links the later name to two brothers who drowned here; treat the more elaborate versions of the story as folklore.
For a wider break, combine a visit with separate outings around Ullswater. Our lakes and tarns overview has more places to explore.
Things to do: the Brothers Water shore walk
The National Park’s Miles Without Stiles route begins at Cow Bridge and follows the western shore towards Hartsop Hall and Sykeside. Its route description gives a 3.75km return walk, graded “for many”.
Choose your turning point to suit your group. Check the latest route notes before a wheelchair, mobility-scooter or pushchair visit.
The final approaches include a short 1:10 slope to Bank End Bar and a steeper 1:7 climb to Brotherswater Inn. These sections may affect how far you choose to continue.
Enjoy the woodland and reed-fringed water from established paths. Give wildlife space and take litter home. Our Lake District otter guide offers regional wildlife inspiration; sightings are never guaranteed.
Hartsop and the higher fells
The surrounding hills offer longer and more demanding walks. Plan a fell route separately from the shore walk, checking its ascent, terrain and return before setting off.
Helvellyn is a separate mountain outing in the wider area. It requires a suitable route, mountain-weather checks, navigation and equipment.
For a gentler day, stay with the shore path and turn back when it suits your group. Do not assume a full circuit will have the same surface or access standard as the official linear route.
Swimming, boats and fishing
Checked 24 October 2026: the National Park’s activities guide lists swimming as permitted at Brothers Water. It lists canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, sailing boats and powered craft as not permitted.
Permission to swim does not mean conditions are safe on a particular day. Check local signs, weather and water conditions before making plans, and protect the shoreline vegetation.
Ask the National Trust about any fishing permission and current restrictions before travelling. Do not assume that general advice about another lake applies here.
Getting here, parking and facilities
Cow Bridge car park is the starting point for the official shore walk. Use designated spaces, follow the current parking signs and leave roads and gateways clear.
Check the current bus timetable and return journey before relying on a seasonal service. If driving via Kirkstone Pass, check the forecast and road conditions before setting off.
Carry what you need for your walk. The route guide notes no facilities along the route; toilets at Brotherswater Inn are for customers, with the steep approach described above.
Places to stay near Brothers Water
Brotherswater Inn, beside Sykeside south of the lake, offers a local base for a walking break. The Ullswater Inn and Inn on the Lake are separate bases in the Ullswater area, involving a journey to Brothers Water.
Compare the setting, room facilities and route to your planned walks before checking availability. Staying longer gives you time to enjoy the lake and surrounding valleys on different days.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my dog?
Keep your dog under close control, use a lead around livestock and wildlife, and follow signs along the route.
Are there guided walks?
Check a guide’s current programme and route before booking. Do not assume a regular guided tour operates from the lake.
When is a good time to visit?
Choose a day with conditions that suit your plans. Woodland colours and changing light can make the shore rewarding across the seasons; weather and path conditions matter more than a fixed “best” month.
Where can I get food and drink?
Brotherswater Inn is a local option. Check its current serving times and booking arrangements before planning a stop. View the operator’s food information →
Can I take a kayak or paddleboard?
No. The National Park’s current guide lists both as not permitted at Brothers Water. Use the activities guide above to check alternatives.
A look around Brothers Water
Places to visit nearby
Explore Ullswater and Aira Force on separate outings, or plan a suitable mountain day on Helvellyn. Check access, travel time and conditions for each destination.
