Loweswater

Loweswater Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the Vale of Lorton in the far west of the Lake District. Despite being one of the smallest lakes in the region, Loweswater offers a peaceful and tranquil escape for visitors. The lake is approximately one mile in length, half a mile wide, and 60 feet deep, making it an excellent destination for walkers looking to complete a lake circuit. Surrounded by a wooded valley, Loweswater Lake provides breathtaking natural scenery, and visitors can enjoy a secluded hiking area away from the crowds of tourists. Red squirrels can be found in the locality, adding to the charm of this tranquil oasis. The National Trust owns the lake, and row boats can be rented from Watergate Farm, located at the lake’s southern end.

Location

Loweswater is a serene lake situated in the western part of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. The lake is approximately 1 mile in length, 1/2 mile wide and 60 feet deep. It is nestled in a wooded valley in the Vale of Lorton, which makes it a peaceful and tranquil location that is often bypassed by tourists.

Geography

The lake is located at grid reference NY 125215 and is surrounded by rolling hills, which are in contrast to the rocky mountains found elsewhere in the Lake District. The immediate vicinity of Loweswater consists mainly of agricultural land, and the lake itself is fed by several small streams and has no visible outflow. Mellbreak, part of the Loweswater Fells, is steep and craggy and provides a stunning backdrop to the lake.

History

Loweswater has a rich history and was once part of the Holmcultram Abbey estate. The lake and surrounding area were later purchased by the National Trust in 1929, and it remains relatively untouched by tourism. The area around Loweswater has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and there are several Bronze Age burial mounds in the vicinity. In the 19th century, the area was known for its mining industry, and there are still several disused mines in the area.

Attractions

Loweswater, located in the Vale of Lorton, is a peaceful and serene lake that is often missed by many visitors. The immediate vicinity of Loweswater consists mainly of rolling hills, in contrast to the rocky mountains found elsewhere in the Lake District. The lake remains relatively untouched by tourism, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in nature.

Nature

Loweswater is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Red squirrels can be found in the locality, and visitors can also spot a variety of bird species such as ospreys, buzzards, and peregrine falcons. The lake is surrounded by beautiful woodlands, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake circuit, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Activities

Loweswater provides an excellent lake circuit for walkers, with a 1-mile long and 0.5 mile wide circuit that is suitable for all ages and abilities. The lake also offers opportunities for fishing, with brown trout and pike being the most common catches. Visitors can bring their own boats or kayaks to explore the lake, or rent them from nearby rental shops. For those looking for a more challenging activity, Mellbreak, part of the Loweswater Fells, offers steep and craggy terrain for hillwalking and climbing.

Accommodation

Hotels

Loweswater has a few hotels that offer comfortable accommodation and excellent service.

Hotel Name	Price Range (per night)	Features
Kirkstile Inn	£100-£200	Located at the foot of Melbreak, stylish bedrooms, on-site pub and restaurant
Buttermere Court Hotel	£80-£150	Traditional pub with rooms, cosy atmosphere, home-cooked food

Cottages

For those who prefer self-catering accommodation, there are several cottages available for rent in Loweswater.

• Sally’s Cottages: Offers a variety of cottages in and around Loweswater, ranging from cosy one-bedroom properties to spacious family homes.
• Lanthwaite Green Farm Cottage: A charming two-bedroom cottage with stunning views of the Lake District.
• Loweswater Cottage: A traditional stone cottage with three bedrooms, a wood-burning stove, and a private garden.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Food and Drink

Restaurants

Loweswater may be a small hamlet, but it has a few excellent restaurants that serve delicious food. One of the popular restaurants in the area is The Kirkstile Inn, which has been providing food and shelter for over 400 years. The restaurant has undergone a recent refurbishment and now offers a contemporary dining experience. The menu features a range of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant also has its own brewery, which produces a selection of craft ales. Another restaurant worth visiting is The Cottage in the Wood, which is located near Whinlatter Forest. The restaurant has a stunning view of Skiddaw Mountain and serves modern British cuisine. The menu features dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the restaurant has an extensive wine list.

Pubs

Loweswater is home to a few cosy pubs that offer a relaxed atmosphere and a selection of beers, wines, and spirits. The Kirkstile Inn is not only a great restaurant, but it is also a popular pub. The pub serves a range of locally brewed ales, including the ones made on-site. The pub has a traditional interior with a wood-burning stove and a beer garden with a view of the fells. Another pub worth visiting is The Wheatsheaf Inn, which is located in Lorton. The pub has a welcoming atmosphere and serves a range of local and guest ales. The pub has a menu featuring classic pub food, including burgers, fish and chips, and pies.

Transportation

By Car

Loweswater is located in the Lake District and can be accessed by car via the A5086 between Cockermouth and Egremont. Visitors can turn off at the sign for the village of Mockerin and Loweswater to reach the lake. The lake is approximately 9 miles away from Cockermouth. There is a car park available near the lake for visitors to park their cars.

By Bus

There are also bus services available for visitors who prefer to travel by public transportation. Visitors can take the 77 bus service from Cockermouth to Lorton, which stops at Loweswater. The bus service operates on weekdays and Saturdays, with limited service on Sundays and bank holidays. Visitors are advised to check the bus timetable in advance to plan their journey. It is important to note that the bus service is not frequent, and visitors may need to plan their journey accordingly. Visitors are also advised to check the bus timetable in advance, as the bus service may be subject to change. Visitors can also take advantage of the Miles Without Stiles route, which is a wheelchair and pushchair-friendly route that starts and ends at the car park near Loweswater. The route is approximately 1.5 miles long and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.