Burnmoor Tarn

Burnmoor Tarn is a beautiful natural tarn located in the Lake District in Cumbria, England. It is one of the largest natural tarns in the Lake District and occupies an area of 23.9 hectares. The tarn is situated in a moraine hollow on the uplands between Wastwater and Eskdale and lies at an altitude of 253 meters. The lake has two distinct basins close to the south-eastern shore and a maximum depth of 13 meters. There are four main inflow streams to the north and north-west. The tarn’s waters flow into Whillan Beck at the tarn’s north-eastern corner, which immediately turns south and flows into Eskdale, joining the Esk at Beckfoot. Burnmoor Tarn is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Location

Burnmoor Tarn is a natural lake located in Cumbria, England. It is situated on Eskdale Fell, which is part of the Lake District National Park. The tarn is one of the largest natural tarns in the Lake District and is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Geography

Burnmoor Tarn is located at an altitude of 1,050 feet (320 m) above sea level. Its waters flow into Whillan Beck at the tarn’s north-eastern corner, which immediately turns south and flows into Eskdale, joining the Esk at Beckfoot. The tarn is surrounded by several peaks, including Scafell and Scafell Pike, which are the highest mountains in England. The location of the tarn makes it an ideal starting point for hikers who want to explore the surrounding peaks. The tarn is also located close to Wasdale, which is home to Wastwater, the deepest lake in England. Wasdale is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and many people combine a visit to Burnmoor Tarn with a hike up Scafell or Scafell Pike. In terms of access, the tarn can be reached by foot from the nearby village of Boot. The walk takes approximately 2 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also drive to the tarn, although parking is limited and there is a small fee for parking. Overall, Burnmoor Tarn is a beautiful and tranquil location that offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax, the tarn is well worth a visit.

History

Early History

Burnmoor Tarn has a long and fascinating history. It is believed that the tarn was formed during the last Ice Age, around 10,000 years ago. As the glaciers retreated, they left behind a depression in the landscape, which gradually filled with water to create the tarn we see today. The area around Burnmoor Tarn has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the tarn was used by prehistoric people for fishing and hunting. Later, during the Roman period, the area was used for farming and mining.

Modern History

In more recent times, Burnmoor Tarn has become a popular destination for walkers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The tarn is surrounded by stunning scenery, including the rugged peaks of the Lake District, and is a haven for wildlife, including otters, water voles, and a variety of bird species. In the 19th century, Burnmoor Tarn became a popular destination for anglers, who came to fish for trout in its crystal-clear waters. A fishing lodge was built by the southern shore of the tarn, which still stands today and is now used as a holiday home. Today, Burnmoor Tarn is a protected area, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its importance for wildlife and geological features. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the tarn and its surroundings, while respecting the delicate ecosystem and leaving no trace of their visit.

Features

Size and Depth

Burnmoor Tarn is the largest natural tarn in the Lake District, occupying 23.9 hectares and lying at an altitude of 253 metres in a moraine hollow on the uplands between Wastwater and Eskdale. The lake has two distinct basins close to the south-eastern shore and a maximum depth of 13 metres. Its waters flow into Whillan Beck at the tarn’s north-eastern corner, which immediately turns south and flows into Eskdale, joining the Esk at Beckfoot.

Flora and Fauna

Burnmoor Tarn is surrounded by a diverse range of vegetation, including heather, bilberry, and cotton grass, which provide habitats for a variety of wildlife. Visitors may be lucky enough to spot red deer, foxes, and birds such as the curlew and golden plover. The lake itself is home to a range of fish species, including brown trout, perch, and pike.

Fishing

Burnmoor Tarn is a popular fishing spot, with brown trout being the main catch. The lake is managed by the Environment Agency and fishing permits can be obtained from the nearby fishing lodge.

Paths and Access

There are several paths leading to Burnmoor Tarn, including a popular circular route from the village of Boot in Eskdale. The path takes visitors along the Whillan Beck, through moorland and alongside various streams, before reaching the tarn. The return journey follows the same path. The tarn can also be accessed from the nearby Blea Tarn via a footpath. Overall, Burnmoor Tarn is a beautiful and peaceful location, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake District.

Conclusion

Burnmoor Tarn is an impressive natural tarn in the Lake District that offers a unique and peaceful experience for visitors. The Tarn is situated on Eskdale Fell in Cumbria, England and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning views. Its waters flow into Whillan Beck at the tarn’s north-eastern corner, which immediately turns south and flows into Eskdale, joining the Esk at Beckfoot. Visitors to Burnmoor Tarn can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, walking, and fishing. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and mammals. The tarn is a popular spot for anglers, who come to fish for brown trout and Arctic char. The Tarn is easily accessible from the nearby village of Boot, which is located in the Copeland district of Cumbria. Visitors can take the Boot to Burnmoor Tarn trail, which is a 4.1-mile out-and-back route that takes an average of 2 h 36 min to complete. The trail is considered to be an easy route, with an elevation gain of 1,361 ft. Overall, Burnmoor Tarn is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Its stunning natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re a keen angler, hiker, or nature lover, Burnmoor Tarn has something to offer everyone.