Parking for Easedale Tarn Walk: Park at one of the several pay-and-display car parks in the village of Grasmere
Easedale Tarn What 3 Words: ///quits.cultivation.offstage
Distance: Approx. 5.2 miles
Ascent: 282m
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: Approx. 2 hours (return walk)
Grasmere is deemed one of the prettiest villages in the Lake District and this Easedale Tarn walk via Sour Milk Gill showcases the natural beauty of the area. This is one of my favourite Grasmere walks as it offers showstopping views of the surrounding fells and valleys, as well as introducing you to majestic waterfalls and emerald pools.
Directions for the Grasmere to Easedale Tarn Walk
- Park in the village of Grasmere and head up Easedale Road.
2. Pass over the stone bridge that crosses Easedale Beck and continue along the road until you reach a wooden footbridge on your left, next to the sign for Lancrigg café.
3. Cross the bridge and follow the short woodland trail until you arrive at a gate along the large stone path.
4. Head through the gate and carry on along the track through the farmland. Here, the valley opens up and you can enjoy magnificent fell scenery.
You soon pass a stone bridge on your right, with a clear view of Helm Crag on the other side of the river.
5. When you arrive at the fork in the path, keep left. The trail gradually ascends, and Sour Milk Gill comes into sight. This is a magnificent waterfall that cascades down the rocky slope into the valley.
The path gets steeper and is quite rocky in places, so make sure you wear suitable footwear and take care when walking.
As you climb higher, the views become increasingly beautiful, with the fells rising up on all sides.
6. Cross over the small wooden bridge and continue along the rocky path.
7. As you reach the top of the waterfall, you’ll find a stunning fairy pool, the perfect spot to take a dip and soak up the views.
Just above the fairy pool, you come to an infinity pool that lies beneath an old juniper tree.
8. The trail continues uphill and through dramatic fell scenery before finally reaching Easedale Tarn. To get closer to the water’s edge, take the narrow trail that leads you down to the edge of the tarn. There are lots of stony beaches surrounding the water, where you can rest your feet, snack on a picnic and enjoy a wild swim.
I’d recommend doing the Easedale Tarn walk from Grasmere during the week and at quieter times if you prefer a little more tranquility.
9. The return journey follows the same path back down to Grasmere, or you can descend along the path on the other side of Sour Milk Gill to get a different perspective of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Tips and Precautions
– Wear suitable footwear, as the path can be steep and rocky in places.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the walk can be moderately challenging.
– The weather in the Lake District can be unpredictable so be sure to check the forecast before setting out.
– If you do take a picnic with you, take your rubbish home with you and leave no trace of your visit.
– Follow my tips for wild swimming if you do decide to take a dip in Easedale Tarn.
Grasmere Accommodation
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay after your walk, I can highly recommend The Grasmere Hotel, a beautiful country house hotel on the banks of the River Rothay.
