Attractions and Places To See around Ennerdale Water - Top 6

A popular choice is the circular walk around Ennerdale Water, which is approximately 7 to 7.3 miles (11.5 km) long. This route passes through peaceful forest plantations and offers varied terrain. For those seeking views, the path around Robin Hood's Chair, Ennerdale Water provides excellent vistas along the lake. The Ennerdale Waterside Path also offers a complete circuit of the lake.

Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the section around Angler's Crag, which is part of the circular walk. It offers stunning views but involves some scrambling and can be tricky, especially if you are not comfortable with heights. The surrounding fells like Great Gable, Pillar, and Steeple also provide opportunities for demanding ascents.

Ennerdale Water itself is a deep glacial lake, known for its pristine water quality. The valley is flanked by impressive mountains such as Great Gable and Pillar. You can also explore the River Liza, which feeds into the lake, and the River Ehen, which flows out. The area is part of the Wild Ennerdale rewilding project, allowing you to experience a landscape evolving with minimal human interference.

Yes, Ennerdale Water is known for its clear, pristine water, making it suitable for wild swimming. Robin Hood's Chair, Ennerdale Water, a distinctive rock on the shore, is a favored spot for admiring the surroundings and is also known for good swimming.

The area is rich in diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, wild cattle, deer, and pine martens. The lake itself is home to the Arctic char, a species of fish of particular interest. The ongoing Wild Ennerdale project further supports biodiversity, increasing your chances of spotting various species.

Beyond walking, you can explore various outdoor activities. There are several running trails, including loops around Ennerdale Water from Bowness or Grike. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path. Additionally, you can find waterfall hikes in the vicinity, such as the Great Borne Summit to Scale Force Waterfall loop. For more details on these activities, refer to the Running Trails around Ennerdale Water, Waterfall hikes around Ennerdale Water, and MTB Trails around Ennerdale Water guides.

Key viewpoints include Robin Hood's Chair, Ennerdale Water, a distinctive rock offering serene views. Angler's Crag provides stunning vistas, though it involves some scrambling. A short but steep climb to Bowness Knott rewards visitors with excellent panoramic views over the lake. Pillar Rock, below Pillar mountain, is an iconic crag known as the birthplace of mountaineering in the Lake District.

Yes, the area has a rich history. You can find the beautifully situated Blakely Rise Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument a few miles south of Ennerdale Bridge. The Smithy Beck Settlement is an ancient site dating back over 600 years, featuring distinctive 'longhouses'. Remains of Romano-British Farmsteads can also be found at Low Gillerthwaite and Tongue How. The Church of St Mary in Ennerdale Bridge dates back to the 16th century.

Ennerdale Water offers a sense of solitude and tranquility at any time of year, even during peak seasons, due to its remote location. The surrounding woodlands and fells provide beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, from lush greenery in spring and summer to vibrant colors in autumn.

Ennerdale Water is known for being the only road-free lake in the Lake District, contributing to its remote feel. Public transport options are limited, and visitors typically reach the area by car, often parking at locations like Bowness Knott or near Ennerdale Bridge. It's advisable to check local transport schedules if relying on public services.

The circular walk around the lake offers a peaceful experience for families, though some sections, like Angler's Crag, might be challenging for younger children. The extensive woodlands are great for exploring nature and spotting wildlife. The tranquil environment provides a good opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors together, with many easy sections of the waterside path suitable for a leisurely stroll.

Visitors frequently highlight the sense of solitude and tranquility that Ennerdale Water offers due to its remote location and lack of roads. The crystal-clear water and fantastic views are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the circular walk, noting its varied terrain and the opportunity to escape from the world. The challenging sections, like Angler's Crag, are also a draw for those seeking adventure.