Discover the untamed beauty of Blelham Tarn on this Hawkshead to Wray Castle Walk. Surrounded by epic fell scenery, this walking route takes you on a remarkable journey that combines natural beauty and fascinating history. From the medieval village of Hawkshead, via Blelham Tarn, head through a rich tapestry of landscapes, from sprawling meadows to serene tarns and awe-inspiring panoramic views to Wray Castle.
- Parking: Hawkshead Car Park
- Length: Approx 3.5 miles
- Grade: Easy to moderate
- Time: 1.5 – 2 hrs
Depart from Hawkshead
- Start out from the village of Hawkshead, renowned for its whitewashed cottages, cobbled lanes and 17th-century buildings. From the car park turn head on to North Lonsdale Road and take a left turn. Where the road bears left, cross over and follow the country track on your right. Continue along another track on your right towards the footbridge.
2. Over the footbridge, turn left along the stream and go across the field to the kissing gate. As you continue through the fields, waymarks lead you to the signpost where you need to take a left along a country lane.
3. Pass through another kissing gate on your right and go straight ahead. After a couple of stiles, you’ll finally come to a gate at a metalled road at Loanthwaite Farm.
4. Pass through the gate on to the road and turn left. Walk through the farmland and turn right onto a narrow lane after the house.
5. After the stile on your left, head through the field into the woodland. Continue through the gate behind the Outgate Inn.
6. Once at the main road, turn right past the front of the pub and continue along the road for several hundred metres. (Ignore the first footpath sign) then follow the bridleway through the woodland.
7. After approximately 1km, you’ll reach Blelham Tarn. With the tarn on your right, follow the path until you reach the gate that leads onto the main road.
8. Turn right along the road which gradually ascends to the main gate of Wray Castle, a magnificent Gothic Revival castle situated on the shores of Windermere. Built in the mid-19th century, Wray Castle boasts an intriguing mix of architectural styles and provides a captivating insight into the Victorian era. Explore the castle’s rooms, including the extravagant Great Hall and the child-sized Peter Rabbit Adventure Rooms, which pay homage to Beatrix Potter’s connection with the castle, before wandering through the beautiful gardens.
Hawkshead Accommodation
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