Miles Without Stiles 11: Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge
Conditions update
At the Elterwater end this route was completely washed away in the floods of November 2010. There is also further water damage alongside Great Langdale Beck to Elterwater. Not suitable for wheelchair or pushchair users at present.
Details
Route type: For all / for many. A stunning walk taking in lakeside meadows, an iconic new bridge, roaring waterfall and great food - OS Explorer Map OL7
Distance: 4 km or 2.4 miles for many, 0.5 km or 0.3 miles for all from Skelwith to Woodburn Bridge and back
Start point: National Trust car park, Elterwater - grid ref. NY 328048
Turning point: Skelwith Bridge - grid ref. NY 344034
Facilities: Public toilets at Elterwater and refreshments at Britannia Inn, Elterwater, and Chesters Café, Skelwith Bridge
Getting there: Bus: Langdale Rambler service 516 runs from Ambleside to Elterwater, March to October. Car: A593 from Ambleside or Coniston and turn at Skelwith Bridge on the B5343. It is 2.5 km to Elterwater
Route
Take the gate at the back of the car park on to the wide stone path that runs alongside Great Langdale Beck. This section of path is prone to flood erosion and is being repaired following the floods of 2008.
After 1 km, you reach the shores of Elterwater. This is a quiet lake with many small bays and a mix of wooded and reedy shorelines. Look out for wildfowl, including mallards, coots and moorhens.
The path goes through woodland and leads to an open meadow. At the end, go through a gate into woodland and on to dramatic Woodburn Bridge. Erected in 2006 and named after a Skelwith Parish Council chairman, its location is fantastic. Resting high above Great Langdale Beck, the roar of Skelwith Force entices you on.
Continue past the bridge and along a smooth, stone path above Skelwith Force. The rocky gorge and volume of water in the falls are very impressive. Another 200 metres brings you out at Skelwith Bridge and a welcome rest at Chesters Café.
How you can help
This project is delivered in partnership with the charity Nurture Lakeland. They work with visitors and tourism-related businesses to fundraise for local conservation projects and to promote environmentally sustainable tourism.
Please help by buying a virtual gift or making a donation (opens in new window).
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