Welcome to this guide on the hidden gems of the Lake District! There is SO much more to the Lakes than just the popular spots everyone talks about. Believe it or not, there are places without the crowds. Whether you’ve been to the Lakes before or it’s your first time, these lesser-known spots are well worth a visit. Here are 10 hidden gems that you definitely don’t want to miss on your next trip to the Lake District.
Throughout this guide I’ll be sharing some of those places that don’t always make it onto the typical travel itineraries. These are the hidden lakes, the secluded hikes, the offbeat attractions that give you a different perspective of the Lake District. Whether it’s a lesser-known village or a secret viewpoint, these spots offer a unique and tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas. Exploring these undiscovered places in Cumbria can make your trip even more special.
1. Blea Tarn: A Tranquil Oasis
- Location: Nestled between Langdale Pikes
- Highlights: Serene atmosphere, ideal for peaceful hikes, stunning views of the surrounding peaks
- Why Visit: Less crowded than other lakes, perfect for photography and picnics
With a National Trust car park right beside it, Blea Tarn is an easy and accessible place to visit. There is a great walking trail around the tarn with plenty of places to stop for a picnic, or swim, if you’re feeling brave!
There’s a brilliant guide to a gentle out and back walk detailed here.
2. Grasmere: Beyond Wordsworth
- Location: Central Lake District
- Highlights: Historic village, Grasmere Lake, Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage
- Why Visit: Charming village vibe, beautiful walks around the lake, rich literary history
There is plenty to do in Grasmere to keep you busy for days. Grasmere and Rydall Water are two quieter lakes to visit and spend time exploring. Hiring a boat from Faeryland at Grasmere offers an alternative way to explore the mile long stretch of water.
Grasmere village is a quintessentially Lake District village, described by Wordsworth as “The loveliest spot than man hath ever found“. Visit Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s Grasmere home, step into another century and learn the story of his life in the Lakes.
There are plenty of shops and galleries to browse in Grasmere full of locally made art and crafts, or just simply take a wander through the village and soak up its atmosphere. There’s no shortage of cafes and pubs in the village for you to stop at when you get peckish. Don’t forget to taste the famous Grasmere gingerbread before you leave!
3. Side Pike: Scenic Gem of Langdale
- Location: Near Langdale Pikes, Lake District
- Highlights: Spectacular views of Langdale Valley and surrounding fells
- Why Visit: Quiet and less crowded alternative to nearby peaks, perfect for panoramic photography
Side Pike is a small fell in comparison to many of the others in the area. Standing at only 362m, it’s a shorter walk but it is a steep and rocky one! It’s away from the hustle and bustle of more popular viewpoints and you have rewarding, 360 views. You can incorporate Blea Tarn (above) and Side Pike into one walk which you can read details of here.
4. Holme Fell
- Location: Near Coniston
- Highlights: Low fell with panoramic views over Coniston Water and the surrounding fells.
- Why Visit: Quiet trails, great for sunrise or sunset views, accessible for all ages.
Holme Fell is one of the Wainwright’s and is another small fell which offers wonderful views. The walk is gentle and the views completely mesmerising as you feel fully encompassed by the surrounding hills. Wainwright himself said “A craggy southern front, a switchback ridge, a cluster of small but very beautiful tree girt tarns (old reservoirs), and a great quarry that reveals the core of colourful slate lying beneath the glorious jungle of juniper and birch, heather and bracken, makes this one of the most attractive of Lakeland fells.” This description is absolutely perfect.
The best place to start the walk is from the National Trust car park by the Glen Mary Bridge. If you’re a National Trust member then parking is free.
5. Ennerdale Water: A Wilderness Escape
- Location: Western Lake District
- Highlights: Remote and unspoiled, ideal for wild swimming and solitude
- Why Visit: One of the most secluded lakes, perfect for adventurers seeking quiet
Ennerdale is one of the quiestest, most secluded places in the Lake District offering raw nature, largely untouched by tourism. If you’re looking for an escape from today’s modern world, this is the place to do it!
The wild Ennerdale project can be thanked for the variety of nature which can be spotted here, including red squirrels, deer, otters and many, many birds. Not many visitors to the Lake District make it to Ennerdale, it really is a hidden gem and one that you don’t want to miss on your trip!
6. Buttermere: Nature’s Canvas
- Location: Western Lake District
- Highlights: Picturesque lake surrounded by fells, scenic walking routes
- Why Visit: Stunning natural beauty, ideal for photography and serene walks
Buttermere is another beautiful, scenic spot which could be compared to a painting. It’s so picturesque. At only 4miles long, the walk around the lake is a great, low level walk that many people can enjoy.
There is a lovely little beach you can stop at on the walk which offers a great photo opportunity (below).
There’s no boat trips around Buttermere which makes it a better lake than most to enjoy a wild swim.
The Bridge Hotel at Buttermere is a traditional Lakeland pub with rooms, it makes a wonderful stay, there’s plenty of homely meals on offer and if you visit at the right time of year you’ll be able to get cosy next to the open fire.
7. Wasdale Head: A Hidden Gem
- Location: Western Lake District
- Highlights: Starting point for Scafell Pike, picturesque valley views
- Why Visit: Offers stunning and less crowded hikes, along with dramatic landscapes.
Camp at the National Trust or The Wasdale Head Inn pub campsite to wake up to views of some of England’s highest mountains. Wastwater Lake is the perfect place to escape the Lake District crowds and enjoy a peaceful picnic. You can swim, or paddle board at Wastwater, or if diving is your thing, there are also marked dive routes.
After all that adventure, head back to the pub for a delicious, hearty meal.
8. Grizedale Forest
- Location: Between Coniston Water and Windermere
- Highlights: Extensive woodland with walking and cycling trails, sculptures, and Go Ape treetop adventures.
- Why Visit: Family-friendly activities, art installations, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Explore Grizedale forest and the variety of trails on foot, or by bike. There are 7 trails which can explore by bike, either using your own bike, or hiring one from Grizedale.
There are 9 interesting walks you can go on around the forest, spotting sculptures along the way which all start from the visitor centre. Find the exact routes here.
The visitor centre makes for an informative stop as well as a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat.
9. Kelly Hall Tarn: Remote Gem
- Location: Near Torver
- Highlights: Small, tranquil tarn nestled in the hills, accessible via a scenic hike.
- Why Visit: Remote and peaceful location, ideal for solitude and photography.
Kelly Hall Tarn is a hidden gem in the Lake District not too far from the more popular village of Coniston. Park in the small car park and enjoy the very short walk to the tarn. If you’re lucky you may pass some Herdwick sheep! Walk around the tarn to get the best views, it’s a great spot at sunset, especially if you like to take photos!
10. Thirlmere Shore: Lakeside Serenity
- Location: Near Keswick
- Highlights: Peaceful shoreside walks with views of Helvellyn and the surrounding fells reflected in the lake.
- Why Visit: Tranquil setting, opportunities for birdwatching, and enjoying the reflections on the water.
Sitting beneath some of the arguably, most iconic Lake District fells is Thirlmere. Although now a reservoir, it was originally 2 smaller lakes that were expanded to supply water to Manchester by drowning a small hamlet. The walks around Thirlmere are beautiful, visit in Spring to be completely surrounded by beautiful shades of green everywhere you look.
The walk around Thirlmere (approx 10 miles) is a peaceful one. Don’t be put off by the fact it’s man made, the woodlands and mountain views are absolutely gorgeous.
Conclusion
The Lake District is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From secluded hikes and tranquil lakes to offbeat attractions and picturesque villages, these lesser-known spots offer a unique and peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The Lake District provides an unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best-kept secrets of this beautiful region.
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