Escape the crowds and venture into the remote and atmospheric valley of Mardale. This walk follows a historic packhorse route from the shores of Haweswater Reservoir up to the beautiful Small Water tarn. Surrounded by the towering crags of Harter Fell and Mardale Ill Bell, it's a place of quiet contemplation and dramatic mountain scenery, perfect for an adventurous family outing.
The Walk at a Glance
2 - 2.5 Hours
Out and back
3 Miles / 4.8 km
Steady ascent
Easy / Moderate
Good path
Family Friendly
Good for most ages
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start at Mardale Head
Drive the long, narrow road along the western shore of Haweswater to its end at the Mardale Head car park (CA10 2RP). The views from here are already spectacular, looking up towards the craggy head of the valley.
2. Cross the Bridge
From the car park, walk towards the lake and cross the wooden footbridge over Mardale Beck. Once across, turn right and follow the very clear, stony path that begins to climb.
3. The Nan Bield Pass Route
You are now on the ancient Nan Bield Pass track. The path is well-engineered and climbs steadily, zig-zagging as it gets higher. As you gain height, remember to look back for fantastic views of Haweswater reservoir stretching out below you.
4. Arriving at Small Water
After about 1.5 miles of climbing, the path flattens and you will arrive at the outflow of Small Water. This beautiful tarn is nestled in a classic bowl-shaped corrie. It's the perfect spot for a picnic and to soak in the immense scale of the surrounding fells.
5. The Return Journey
After enjoying the peace and quiet of the tarn, simply retrace your steps. The descent is straightforward and offers continuous great views as you make your way back down to the Mardale Head car park.
Visitor Information & Tips
- The Drive In: Be prepared for a very narrow, single-track road with passing places for the last few miles alongside Haweswater. Drive slowly and be prepared to reverse.
- No Facilities: Mardale Head is very remote. There are no toilets, cafes, or shops. Bring everything you need with you for the day.
- The Old Village: When water levels are very low, you can sometimes see the ghostly remains of the submerged village of Mardale Green, which was flooded to create the reservoir in the 1930s.
- Wildlife: Haweswater is an RSPB nature reserve. Keep an eye out for peregrines, red deer, and England's only golden eagle.
More to Explore Nearby
Harter Fell & Kentmere Pike
For experienced hikers, the path continues beyond Small Water up Nan Bield Pass, offering access to the superb ridge walk over Harter Fell and Kentmere Pike.
The Haweswater Hotel
On your drive back out, stop at the magnificent art-deco Haweswater Hotel for a drink or a meal, enjoying stunning views over the lake from their terrace.
Shap & Shap Abbey
The nearby village of Shap provides the closest amenities. The ruins of the 12th-century Shap Abbey, located in a tranquil spot by the River Lowther, are well worth a visit.