- Parking: OS grid reference: NY 4560104114. Kentmere Institute LA8 9JL
- Length: Approx. 8 miles
- Grade: Easy to moderate
- Time: Approx. 3 hours
Tucked away in the South Lakes in one of the area’s most picturesque valleys, this Kentmere walk to the reservoir leads you along a scenic route. Surrounded by a dramatic fellside backdrop and playing host to wonderful birdlife, Kentmere boasts some of the best South Lake District Walks. Although this is a relatively flat walk in the Lake District, there are some slight inclines but nothing too strenuous.
Kentmere Walk Route
- Just past St Cuthbert Church, park next to the Kentmere Institute on the left (there are only a handful of spaces to get there early and visit at less busy times). It is free to park here, however, the institute do ask that you deposit a donation of £3 in the small box on wall of the building.
2. Walk a few yards up the road and you’ll see a signpost to Kentmere Reservoir on your right. Turn up this path.
3. Follow the footpath uphill and go through the gate. With the cottage on your right, continue along the narrow path on the left.
4. Follow the grassy path that runs above the house and when you come to a fork in the path, keep the centre wall on your left and continue through the fields.
5. Continue along and through a gate, passing stunning views on your right of Shipman Knotts and Wray Crag. From here, even more beautiful scenery begins to unfold.
6. At the end of the path you come to a gate which sets you on a tarmac road. From here, the views becomde even more impressive.
7. Turn right and carry on along the road through the Kentmere valley. Make sure you look out for peregrine falcons, buzzards and ravens overhead. Depending on the season, beautiful heather covers the roadside.
8. As you follow the road round to the left, the scenery becomes even more dramatic.
The Kentmere Horseshoe
9. Pass the farmhouse and continue below the rugged peaks that make up the Kentmere Horseshoe.
10.There are several small waterfalls on either side of the river that run down the valley sides. From Hartrigg Farm the road changes to a stone track and the scenery becomes more rugged as you pass the old quarries.
11. Eventually, you’ll reach the overflow waterfall at the base of the reservoir, which is pretty impressive.
12. Walk along the shoreline of the reservoir to take in the magnificent scenery.
13. Once you’ve taken in the raw beauty of the area, head back along the road, not forgetting to turn left on to the footpath that leads you back to the Kentmere Institute at the start of the walk.
This Kentmere walk is one of my personal favourites. There are lots of photo opportunities on the route, magnificent birdlife, waterfalls and spots along the river where you can dip your toes.
Watch the Kentmere video.
Discover more flat walks in the Lake District.
