Tarn Hows
A picturesque, accessible lake in the Lake District, perfect for gentle walks and stunning photography, especially in autumn.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Tarn Hows
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque, accessible lake in the Lake District, perfect for gentle walks and stunning photography, especially in autumn.
"One of the best NT walking places we have ever visited, totally accessible to all."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Single-track roads can be tricky. Use passing places and be aware of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Pack Out Dog Waste
Bins are only at the car park. Be prepared to carry your dog's waste back.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tarn Hows Circular Walk
Around the lake
A gentle, accessible loop offering stunning reflections and varied scenery. Perfect for all ages and abilities.
Tom Gill Waterfall Trail
Off the main Tarn Hows path
An adventurous detour for families, leading to a charming waterfall. Adds an exciting element to the classic Tarn Hows experience.
Autumn Foliage
Surrounding woodland
The vibrant colours of autumn transform Tarn Hows into a breathtaking spectacle. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Narrow Roads
Parking and Waste Disposal
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Single-track roads can be tricky. Use passing places and be aware of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Pack Out Dog Waste
Bins are only at the car park. Be prepared to carry your dog's waste back.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Joey's coffee spot at the back of the car park is a welcome stop for a latte.
👟 Accessible Paths
The lakeside path is well-maintained and mostly flat, ideal for prams and wheelchairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Single-track roads can be tricky. Use passing places and be aware of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Pack Out Dog Waste
Bins are only at the car park. Be prepared to carry your dog's waste back.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Joey's coffee spot at the back of the car park is a welcome stop for a latte.
👟 Accessible Paths
The lakeside path is well-maintained and mostly flat, ideal for prams and wheelchairs.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Stunning scenery at every turn, a must-visit for photographers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tarn Hows is widely praised for its stunning beauty and accessibility, making it a top choice for families and walkers of all abilities. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained paths and picturesque views. However, some find the single-track access roads challenging, and waste disposal can be inconvenient.
"A beautiful place to walk around, good disabled access around the lake with plenty of seating for when you get tired, very popular with dog walkers but be prepared to carry your doggy waste as the only bins available are at the car park entrance, the Tom Gill falls are accessible but people with mobility issues will not be able to see them.
The toilets are in a very clean and pleasant condition and the cafe which is based at the back of the car park is quite reasonable considering this is a tourist attraction, the views are excellent.
The road to the car park is a single track road with some passing places, we were unlucky enough to be faced with an articulated lorry and had to reverse a bit of a distance.
All in all, a very pleasant and enjoyable day out."
Phil Payne (Black Wolf)
"Nice easy walk around the lake, puppy loved it. Beautiful views, then 10 minutes down the road is ambleside, beautiful views from the youth hostel and reasonable prices with free parking, or there’s pay parking across the road. 5 minutes away is windermere, all so close together, wonderful day out."
Joyce Holden
"According to the road map the site can be accessed by any number of routes which is a big plus. Research the best one given your location. It’s close to four Lake District towns, Coniston, Hawkshead, Windermere and Ambleside.
Downsides. 1. Narrow country roads. The drivers side wing mirror on my dad’s new Kia Sportage was damaged in a hit with a lorry. Be on your guard for anyone approaching the other way. 2. The way in is not easy to spot. See a sign for “Summer Hill Country House” and you are there. 3. You exit the carpark turning left. It’s one way in and one way out. We reached the B5285. A sign for Coniston is right and Tarn Hows/Hawkshead is left nearby is a No Entry sign. That is how I understood it was a one way system. The SatNav told us to turn left. The junction is incredibly steep indeed. So steep one of dad’s wheels was off the ground completely. We had to get help from drivers passing by to hep us out of the situation. We were advised to turn right towards Coniston and get turned around.
Upsides. This is why I give it 3 stars. The carpark is a decent size. it’s impossible to develop it so it is what it is. Not many picnic tables. But there’s a cafe. The paths are well maintained, flat, and it affords stunning scenery every few yards. Even the novice walker would find it easy. It doesn’t take long to get around the full course.
Beautiful place and is a must for cameras."
Paul Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tarn Hows is accessible via single-track roads. Look for signs for 'Summer Hill Country House' as a landmark. Be prepared for narrow sections and use passing places. Some junctions can be very steep.
While not directly served by public transport, Tarn Hows is a short drive from Coniston, Hawkshead, Windermere, and Ambleside, which have bus and ferry services.
Research the best route based on your starting location. The roads can be challenging, and SatNav directions may lead to steep junctions.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park available. It can get busy, especially during peak times.
The single-track roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Be extra cautious and aware of oncoming traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tarn Hows is managed by the National Trust. While there isn't a specific entry fee for the tarn itself, parking charges apply in the National Trust car park.
Tarn Hows is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. The car park and cafe have specific operating hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Tarn Hows. It's a public access area, though parking fees apply.
National Trust members typically receive free parking at National Trust car parks, including Tarn Hows.
Facilities include a car park, toilets, and a cafe. Seating is also available around the lake.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The most popular is the circular walk around the tarn, which is approximately 3.2km (2 miles) and takes about an hour. It's known for its accessibility.
Yes, Tarn Hows is very popular with dog walkers. However, remember to keep dogs under control and be prepared to carry waste back to the car park bins.
The main lakeside path is well-maintained, flat, and suitable for wheelchairs and prams, offering stunning scenery.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Tarn Hows due to its status as a nature reserve and potential safety concerns.
Nearby walks include the Tom Gill waterfall trail, Black Crag, Hodge Quarry, and Holme Fell. 
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful reflections on the water.
The viewpoints offering reflections of the surrounding fells, the charming boathouse, and the autumn colours are particularly popular for photos.
Absolutely! Tarn Hows is renowned for its picturesque landscape, making it a prime location for landscape photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colours and reflections.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust properties and nature reserves to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check specific National Trust guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider adding the short detour to the Tom Gill waterfall for an extra element of adventure that kids will love. The National Trust cafe at the car park provides a convenient spot for snacks and refreshments. Remember to bring your doggy bags, as bins are only at the car park. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
You can extend your hike by exploring nearby trails like Black Crag or Holme Fell for more challenging routes. The accessibility of the main path makes it a great option for a relaxed solo outing, while the surrounding fells cater to more experienced walkers. 🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Accessible Charm of Tarn Hows
Beyond the main path, the surrounding landscape offers gentle gradients, though some steeper sections might require assistance for those with limited mobility. The numerous seating areas dotted along the route provide ample opportunities to rest and soak in the views. This focus on accessibility is a key reason why Tarn Hows remains a popular choice for a relaxed and enjoyable outing in the heart of the Lake District.
Beyond the Lakeside Path
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Tom Gill waterfall trail offers a slightly more rugged experience, branching off from the main circuit. While this detour might present more challenges for those with mobility issues, it adds an element of discovery and is particularly appealing to families looking for a short, exciting excursion.
Photography Hotspots and Seasonal Beauty
Autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, as the deciduous trees surrounding the tarn burst into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. This seasonal spectacle transforms the landscape into a painter's palette, drawing photographers eager to capture the fiery foliage against the deep blues of the water and sky.
+1Capturing the Essence
When visiting for photography, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the full sweep of the landscape. A polarizing filter can be invaluable for cutting glare on the water and enhancing the saturation of the colours. Remember that while the main paths are accessible, some of the most dramatic viewpoints might require a short scramble or a slightly more adventurous approach.
Navigating the Countryside Roads
Some reviews highlight particularly steep junctions, with one account mentioning a vehicle getting a wheel off the ground. It's crucial to research the best route beforehand and be aware that SatNav directions might not always account for the challenging terrain. Drivers should be vigilant for signs and be ready to reverse if necessary, especially when encountering larger vehicles like lorries.
Road Safety Tips
* Drive slowly and defensively.
* Utilize passing places effectively.
* Be aware of steep gradients and sharp turns.
* Consider the size of your vehicle.
* Follow local signage carefully.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit