Located in the far eastern fells, Haweswater is perhaps the most dramatic and lonely of the lakes. Its creation in the 1930s as a reservoir for Manchester was hugely controversial, as it involved the flooding of the village of Mardale Green. Today, it is a place of stark beauty, a haven for wildlife, and a starting point for some of the most challenging mountain walks in the Lake District.
Things to Do
The Drowned Village of Mardale Green
The story of Haweswater is dominated by the lost village of Mardale. The ancient community, including its church and popular pub, was evacuated and submerged when the dam was built to supply water to Manchester. During periods of drought, when the water level drops, the ghostly remains of the village, including field walls and the village bridge, reappear.
RSPB Reserve & High Street
The wild and remote nature of the valley makes it a sanctuary for wildlife and a magnet for serious hillwalkers. The area is managed as an RSPB nature reserve, fantastic for spotting red deer and peregrines. The car park at Mardale Head is the classic start for the ascent of High Street, a magnificent mountain ridge named after the Roman road that runs over its summit.
Where to Stay
Holiday Cottages: To truly experience this remote corner of the Lakes, stay in a traditional farm cottage in the nearby villages of Bampton or Shap.
Hotels: The Haweswater Hotel, with its distinct Art Deco style, is the only hotel on the lake itself, offering stunning views and a unique sense of isolation. Other traditional hotels can be found in the wider area.
Guesthouses: The surrounding Eden Valley has a wonderful selection of welcoming farm guesthouses and B&Bs, perfect for a peaceful rural retreat.
Getting There
By Car: Access to Haweswater is via the small village of Bampton, near Shap (Junction 39 on the M6). From there, a narrow, single-track road with passing places winds for several miles down the eastern shore of the lake, ending at the car park at Mardale Head. Be prepared for a slow drive.
By Public Transport: There is no public transport to Haweswater. The nearest train station is at Penrith.