Grisedale Tarn

Location and Geography

Grisedale Tarn is a mountain lake located in the Lake District of England, specifically in the valley of Grisedale. It is situated between the peaks of Fairfield and Dollywagon Pike, and is enclosed on three sides by the mountains of Seat Sandal, Fairfield, and Dollywaggon Pike. Grisedale Tarn can be found at grid reference 348 120, and is situated at an altitude of 1,800 feet above sea level.

Geographic Features

Grisedale Tarn is a glacial lake, formed during the last ice age. It is fed by several streams, including Grisedale Beck, and has a maximum depth of approximately 60 feet. The lake is surrounded by steep slopes and rocky outcrops, and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The lake is situated within the Lake District National Park, which is known for its rugged beauty and stunning landscapes.

Grisedale Tarn is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy the stunning scenery and challenging terrain. The lake is accessible via several hiking trails, including the Grisedale Tarn Walk, which starts in Patterdale.

The area around Grisedale Tarn is known for its high rainfall, which contributes to the lake’s lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. Visitors to the lake can expect to see a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, and swans, as well as fish such as brown trout and Arctic char.

In summary, Grisedale Tarn is a stunning mountain lake located in the Lake District of England. It is surrounded by rugged mountains and steep slopes, and is known for its stunning views and abundant wildlife. Visitors to the lake can enjoy hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, and can explore the surrounding area, which includes several other notable features and attractions.

History and Legends

Battle of Dunmail Raise

Grisedale Tarn has a rich history that dates back to the Battle of Dunmail Raise in 945 AD. The Battle of Dunmail Raise was fought between King Dunmail of the Kingdom of Cumbria and the combined forces of the English and Scottish kings. The battle was fierce, and King Dunmail was eventually slain. His soldiers then conveyed the crown of the Kingdom of Cumbria to Grisedale Tarn, where it is believed to have been hidden.

The Brothers Parting Stone

Grisedale Tarn is also home to the Brothers Parting Stone, which is a rock etched with an inscription from a poem written by William Wordsworth in memory of his last meeting with his brother John in September 1800. William, John, and their sister Dorothy had walked from their home, Dove Cottage, to Grisedale Tarn, where they parted ways. The inscription on the stone reads:

Here did we stop; and here looked round
While each into himself descends,
For that last thought of parting Friends
That is not to be found.

Poem by Rev. Frederick William Faber

Grisedale Tarn is also mentioned in a poem by Rev. Frederick William Faber, titled “The Pilgrims of the Night.” The poem describes a group of pilgrims who are traveling through the Lake District, and who stop at Grisedale Tarn to rest and reflect on their journey. The poem reads:

There is a tarn in Grisedale,
A lonely tarn, a still,
Where the pilgrims of the night
Drink deep from the holy hill.

Grisedale Tarn’s rich history and legends make it a fascinating destination for hikers and history enthusiasts alike.

Wildlife and Fisheries

Fish Species

Grisdale Tarn is a freshwater lake located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. It is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, perch, and eels. Brown trout are the most common fish species found in the lake, with a good stock available for anglers to catch.

Perch are another popular fish species found in Grisdale Tarn. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with their greenish-brown back and yellow-orange belly. Perch are a predatory fish, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates.

Eels are also present in Grisdale Tarn, although they are less common than brown trout and perch. Eels are a long, snake-like fish with a slimy texture and are known for their ability to move across land.

The lake is a popular destination for anglers, with many opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, with permits available for purchase from local fishing shops.

It is important to note that fishing regulations apply to Grisdale Tarn, and anglers should be aware of these regulations before fishing in the lake. These regulations aim to protect the fish population and ensure that the lake remains a sustainable resource for future generations.

Overall, Grisdale Tarn is a great destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species in a beautiful natural setting.

Recreation and Tourism

Hiking

Grisedale Tarn is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The tarn is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers breathtaking views of the Lake District National Park. Hikers can explore the area on a variety of trails that range in difficulty, from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Grisedale Tarn Walk is a great excursion that will take you through some amazing landscapes for views overlooking the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District. While the route isn’t very long or technical, it does feature some steep and rugged terrain as you climb across the moor to reach the tarn.

The best time to go hiking in Grisedale Tarn is during the summer months when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, hikers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as the Lake District is known for its unpredictable weather patterns. It is important to check the weather forecast before setting out on a hike and to dress appropriately for the conditions.

Wild Camping at Grisedale Tarn

The tarn lies within the Helvellyn range and is surrounded by dramatic scenery, making it an attractive spot for wild camping.

In England and Wales, wild camping is not legally permitted without the landowner’s permission. However, in some remote upland areas of the Lake District, including Grisedale Tarn, it is generally tolerated if campers follow some essential guidelines to ensure they minimize their impact on the environment and respect other visitors.

If you decide to wild camp at Grisedale Tarn, please follow these principles:

1. Arrive late and leave early: Set up your camp at dusk and leave early in the morning to minimize your presence in the area.

2. Camp above the highest fell wall: To reduce the visual impact and disturbance to wildlife, it is recommended to camp above the highest fell wall, away from footpaths and tarns.

3. Leave no trace: Always practice “Leave No Trace” principles. This includes taking all your rubbish with you, not lighting fires, and avoiding digging trenches or moving rocks.

4. Be discreet and unobtrusive: Keep your campsite small, quiet, and out of sight of other visitors. Use a tent that blends in with the environment, and avoid making unnecessary noise.

5. Respect the environment: Avoid camping on fragile vegetation, and do not damage or disturb the wildlife and flora in the area.

6. Keep groups small: Smaller groups (ideally fewer than four people) are less likely to disturb wildlife and other visitors.

7. Seek permission if camping on private land: While wild camping is generally tolerated in remote upland areas, it is essential to seek permission if you plan to camp on private land.

By following these guidelines, you can help preserve the natural beauty of Grisedale Tarn and the Lake District for future generations to enjoy. Always check for local updates and restrictions before setting off, as regulations may change over time.

Scenic Views

Grisedale Tarn is renowned for its scenic views, which offer visitors a glimpse of the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District. The tarn is surrounded by mountains, including Helvellyn, Fairfield and Dollywaggon Pike, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take in the views from a variety of vantage points, including the tarn itself and the surrounding hiking trails.