Boathouse on Crummock Water copyright Michael Turner

Miles Without Stiles 42: Lanthwaite Wood, Crummock Water

Miles Without Stiles

A gently undulating path to the shores of Crummock Water - OS Explorer Map OL4.

Route for some. 2.5km distance.

Route

This is a popular route (1.25km each way) for walkers leading to the shore of Crummock Water. The views over the lake to Mellbreak and surrounding fells are breathtaking.

From the car park go through the gateway at the southern end of the car park and follow the forest road. Ignore the first track on the left and continue through the pleasant woods of birch, beech, pine and larch. The track forks again soon after; stay right and then right again to lead down to the lakeshore.

Framed by mature Scots pine, the views down Crummock Water towards Buttermere are stunning. Mellbreak is the fell to the right of the lake, with a shape like an upturned boat. Beyond that lies Red Pike and High Stile.

Retrace your steps for about 100 metres and then continue for almost 0.5 km or 0.3 miles to the boathouse for more views of the lake. Return the way you came back to the car park.

This is a route for some because the surface is a bit rough in places. However the gradients are gentle and robust wheelchairs and pushchairs should cope with this route. Be prepared to be a bit shaken though!

Details

Start point:

National Trust car park.

Postcode: CA13 9UX
Grid reference: NY 149215
W3W: ///found.rivals.acclaim

Facilities:

None on route. 1.3 km / 1 mile to the Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater village is the nearest place for customer toilets and refreshments.

Getting there:

No public transport to route start. Car: From Keswick over the B5292 Whinlatter Pass to Lorton then B5289 south. Stay right to Loweswater and at the bottom of Scale Hill turn left into the car park.