Located on the eastern shore of Bassenthwaite Lake, Dodd Wood offers waymarked trails for all abilities. From a gentle stroll to the historic St Bega's Church to a rewarding climb to Dodd summit, this area combines rich woodland, amazing wildlife, and fascinating history.
The Walk at a Glance
1 to 3 Hours
Multiple trail options
1.5 - 3 Miles
Circular loops
Easy / Moderate
Gentle or steep
Woodland Paths
Waymarked trails
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Starting at the Car Park
Begin at the Dodd Wood pay-and-display car park. Here you'll find The Old Sawmill Tearoom, toilets, and information boards detailing the different coloured walking routes.
2. Option A: St Bega's Church (Easy)
For a gentle 1-hour walk, take the lower path from the car park. Follow the signs down through the woods to the shore of Bassenthwaite Lake. Here you'll find the incredibly peaceful and ancient St Bega's Church. Return via the same path.
3. Option B: Dodd Summit (Moderate)
For a more strenuous 2-3 hour walk, follow the red-marked Dodd Summit Trail. The path climbs steeply through the pine forest but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views from the top, taking in Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite, and the Solway Coast.
4. The Osprey Viewpoints
During the nesting season (April-September), you can take a detour to the two Osprey viewpoints. The lower viewpoint is a 15-minute walk from the car park, while the upper one is a further 30-minute climb along the summit path.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Parking: Use the Dodd Wood pay-and-display car park, managed by Forestry England (Postcode: CA12 4QE). The machine accepts card payments.
- Bassenthwaite Ospreys: Dodd Wood is a famous viewing area for the ospreys that nest near the lake. Volunteers are often on hand at the viewpoints with telescopes and information.
- Facilities: Excellent facilities are available, including toilets and The Old Sawmill Tearoom, located right at the start of the trails.
- St Bega's History: The church dates to pre-Norman times and is thought to be the inspiration for a location in Melvyn Bragg's novel "A Time to Dance".
More to Explore Nearby
Mirehouse & Gardens
A historic family-run house with beautiful gardens, lakeside walks, and woodland adventure playgrounds, located just across the road from Dodd Wood.
The Lake District Wildlife Park
A little further along Bassenthwaite Lake, this excellent wildlife park is home to over 100 species of animals, including zebras, lemurs, and red pandas.
Bassenthwaite Lake Station
Dine in a full-size replica of the Orient Express train carriage, which was used as a film set for the 2017 movie 'Murder on the Orient Express'.