Talkin Tarn Country Park
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Talkin Tarn Country Park

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene lakeside country park offering accessible walks, water sports, and a charming cafe. Perfect for nature lovers and families.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Witness ducklings and birdsong.

CrowdLow
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Talkin Tarn Country Park

Talkin Tarn Country Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

Witness ducklings and birdsong.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene lakeside country park offering accessible walks, water sports, and a charming cafe. Perfect for nature lovers and families.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Lovely little lake with paths around, tea room and toilets."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Lakeside Walk

The 1.2-mile path around the Tarn is fully wheelchair accessible.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are very welcome, and there's even doggy ice cream at the cafe!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tarn Circuit

The Tarn Circuit

Around the lake

A scenic 1.2-mile loop offering stunning water views and accessible paths for all.

Reddit+1
Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Surrounding the Tarn

Explore serene woodland paths, perfect for a peaceful stroll and immersing yourself in nature.

Instagram
Water Activities

Water Activities

On the Tarn

Enjoy sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on the tranquil waters.

Reddit
The Tea Room

The Tea Room

Lakeside

A popular spot for refreshments with lovely benches to enjoy the scenery.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Talkin Tarn is an outdoor haven, so pack for all weather! Rain or shine, the trails and lake offer beauty. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the woodland paths and the 1.2-mile lake circuit. Instagram

Parking & Amenities

Parking is available on-site for a fee, with options for all-day passes. The park offers accessible toilets, a cafe, and even doggy ice cream, making it a convenient spot for a day out. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Witness ducklings and birdsong.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Ideal for water sports.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Busiest for cafe & activities.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Carlisle Song🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿a song about Carlisle in the Nothern English county of Cumbria. #carlisle #cumbria #england #uk #carlisleunited suno 🎶
@saxboybilly18
17.3K likes • 287.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Lakeside Walk

The 1.2-mile path around the Tarn is fully wheelchair accessible. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are very welcome, and there's even doggy ice cream at the cafe! InstagramReddit

A walk around Talkin Tarn today with the little two.. a great couple of hours and they didn’t mind the wind and few drops of rain every now and then. #talkintarn #brampton #talkintarncountrypark #talkintarnbrampton #getoutside #getkidsoutdoors #1000hoursoutside #wetwednesdaysfamily #toddler #baby #siblings #brotherandsister #greatoutdoors #cumbria
whimsical__wildlings
43 likes • 253 views
🌲✨ T A L K I N T A R N ✨🌲 .... ... .. . Kicked off our holiday to the Lakes by visiting Talkin Tarn country park. Recommended by family we were visiting on route who are based in Carlisle 👍 And this didn't disappoint.... Let's start with the essentials: Pram friendly ✔️ also great for little legs too. Toilet and shower facilities 🚻 Baby change 👶🚼 Cafe with picnic benches 🍴🧺 Park for kids to p...
north_westdaysout
19 likes • 402 views

🅿️ Parking Hassles

Card payments and the web app for parking can be tricky; bring change! Reddit

🛶 Book Activities Ahead

Kayak hire and archery are available, but booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

Out in nature exploring the serene beauty of Talkin Tarn Country Park. Nature's symphony and tranquil waters make it a perfect escape 🌳🦢🍃 📍 Talkin Tarn, Cumbria, UK 🇬🇧 #TalkinTarn #NatureEscape #SereneLandscapes"
travelisticdreams
0 likes • 119 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Lakeside Walk

The 1.2-mile path around the Tarn is fully wheelchair accessible. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Dogs are very welcome, and there's even doggy ice cream at the cafe! InstagramReddit

🅿️ Parking Hassles

Card payments and the web app for parking can be tricky; bring change! Reddit

🛶 Book Activities Ahead

Kayak hire and archery are available, but booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

🌦️ Be Prepared for Weather

Pack for changeable Cumbrian weather; rain or shine, it's beautiful. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Talkin Tarn for its beautiful lakeside setting and accessible walking paths, making it a great spot for families and dog owners. The cafe is a popular refreshment stop, though parking payment issues have been noted as a minor frustration. Overall, it's seen as a lovely, tranquil place for outdoor enjoyment. Reddit+1

"First time visiting today will definitely be going back. Easy walk around the lake if you dont want to walk through the woodland. Boats, paddle boarding and canoeing on the lake. Then chill at the cafe. Dog friendly too sell doggy ice cream. We didn't stop at the cafe as was eating out, so can't comment on that other than being really busy so must be good."

Susan Hodgson

"Lovely little lake with paths around, tea room and toilets.

Accessibility notes: The walk round the lake is fully wheelchair accessible. There is an accessible toilet with radar key and shower, and some accessible parking bays further in next to the buildings (there are also accessible parking bays in the main car park with 3hrs free on a blue badge, but there are speed bumps on the very short road to the utility buildings!)."

Keziah Gibbons

"It brought back so many memories of my childhood 60 years ago sailing my model sail.boat over the tarn. It was and still iss incredibly beautiful even on a wet November morning."

Elliott Turner

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Accessible paths
Dog-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking payment issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Talkin Tarn is located near Brampton in Cumbria. It's accessible by car, with a dedicated car park on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the park. Instagram

Yes, there is a paid car park at Talkin Tarn. The cost is around £2.60 for all day. Be aware that card payments and the associated web app can sometimes be problematic, so it's advisable to have cash on hand. Reddit

Yes, there are accessible parking bays in the main car park, offering 3 hours free with a blue badge. There are also accessible bays further in near the utility buildings, though this road has speed bumps. Reddit

Public transport options to Talkin Tarn are limited. While buses may serve the nearby town of Brampton, direct routes to the park are infrequent. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi if you're not driving. Instagram

Talkin Tarn is located in Cumbria, to the east of the main Lake District National Park. While not directly within the park, it's a scenic drive away and often visited by those exploring the wider Cumbrian region. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entrance fee to access Talkin Tarn Country Park itself. However, you will need to pay for parking in the on-site car park. Reddit

Talkin Tarn Country Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. The cafe and specific facilities may have their own operating times, so it's worth checking their schedule if you plan to use them. Instagram

While general entry to the park is free, activities like kayak hire and archery often require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. It's best to contact the park or activity providers directly to confirm. Reddit

Yes, there are toilet facilities available at Talkin Tarn, including an accessible toilet with a radar key. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Talkin Tarn is very dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome to explore the park and even enjoy a special doggy ice cream from the cafe. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Talkin Tarn offers a variety of activities including walking the 1.2-mile circuit around the lake, exploring woodland trails, sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and archery. There's also a cafe and opportunities for birdwatching. InstagramReddit

Yes, the main path around the Tarn is fully wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs. Reddit+1

While some visitors enjoy swimming in the Tarn, it's important to be aware of water safety. Official swimming is not always supervised, and conditions can vary. Check local advice before entering the water. Instagram

While there isn't a dedicated playground, the open spaces, woodland trails, and the lake itself provide plenty of natural play opportunities for children. Instagram

Talkin Tarn is a haven for wildlife. You can often spot various bird species, including ducks and ducklings, and enjoy the sounds of birdsong. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located by the lake that serves a range of food and drink options, including hot meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a popular spot for visitors to relax. Reddit+1

The cafe at Talkin Tarn offers a variety of options, from light snacks and drinks to more substantial meals. They also cater to dogs with special ice cream. InstagramReddit

Yes, the cafe is dog-friendly, and they even offer special treats for canine visitors. InstagramReddit

While not explicitly designated, the park has plenty of open spaces and benches around the Tarn where visitors can enjoy a picnic. Instagram

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's scenic areas. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire park offers beautiful photographic opportunities. Capture the serene lake views, the reflections on the water, the lush woodland, and the wildlife like ducks and ducklings. Instagram+1

Absolutely. The combination of water, trees, and open skies provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

Yes, Talkin Tarn is a great place to photograph local wildlife, particularly birds like ducks and their ducklings. Remember to maintain a respectful distance. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can create stunning reflections on the water. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's advisable to check with park management if you plan extensive filming. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Talkin Tarn is a fantastic family destination. The fully accessible 1.2-mile circuit around the lake is perfect for prams and little legs, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery. InstagramReddit Kids will love watching the boats and water activities on the tarn, and the woodland trails offer a sense of adventure and exploration. Instagram Don't forget to visit the cafe, which offers doggy ice cream – a guaranteed hit with the kids (and their furry friends!). Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo travelers and walkers, Talkin Tarn offers a peaceful and scenic escape. The 1.2-mile lake circuit is a manageable and enjoyable walk, providing beautiful views without being overly strenuous. Reddit+1 You can find plenty of benches to sit and relax, read a book, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Reddit The park is also a great spot for nature observation, with opportunities to spot various bird species. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

Talkin Tarn is a dream destination for dog owners. It's highly dog-friendly, with vast open spaces and trails for your furry friends to roam. Instagram+1 The lake offers opportunities for dogs to swim (with caution), and the cafe even serves special doggy ice cream. Instagram+1 The accessible paths make it easy for dogs of all sizes and energy levels to enjoy the park. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Tarn Circuit

The main attraction at Talkin Tarn Country Park is the 1.2-mile circuit that encircles the lake. This path is renowned for its accessibility, being fully wheelchair-friendly and suitable for pushchairs, making it a fantastic option for families and those with mobility challenges. Reddit+1 The walk offers ever-changing vistas of the water, surrounding greenery, and the sky above. It's a gentle, rewarding stroll that allows visitors to fully appreciate the park's natural beauty at their own pace. Instagram

Along the circuit, you'll find numerous benches strategically placed for rest and contemplation. These spots are perfect for pausing to admire the scenery, watch the activity on the water, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility. The path is well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the weather, though appropriate footwear is always recommended. Instagram

Water Sports and Activities

Talkin Tarn is a hub for water-based recreation. The calm waters of the tarn are ideal for a variety of activities, including sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Visitors can often be seen enjoying these pursuits, adding a dynamic element to the park's serene landscape. InstagramReddit While some activities might require bringing your own equipment, kayak hire is often available, though booking in advance is advised. Reddit

Beyond water sports, the park also offers other recreational opportunities. Archery sessions can be booked, providing a chance to try a new skill in a picturesque setting. Reddit For those seeking a more relaxed experience, simply watching the boats glide across the water or enjoying the natural surroundings can be just as fulfilling. The presence of wildlife, such as ducks and ducklings, adds to the charm and provides opportunities for nature observation. Instagram

A Haven for Dogs and Their Owners

Talkin Tarn Country Park is a paradise for dog owners. The park is explicitly dog-friendly, with ample space for canine companions to explore and enjoy themselves. The 1.2-mile circuit is perfect for a good walk, and the surrounding woodland trails offer further sniffing and adventure opportunities. Instagram+1 Many visitors bring their dogs to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Instagram

Adding to the welcoming atmosphere for pets, the on-site cafe even offers special doggy ice cream, a delightful treat for well-behaved pups after their adventures. InstagramReddit This thoughtful touch makes Talkin Tarn a particularly appealing destination for those who consider their dogs part of the family and want to include them in their day out. Remember to keep dogs under control, especially near the water and wildlife, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Instagram

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