Remote, wild, and awe-inspiring, Wastwater is the epitome of Lake District drama. As England's deepest lake, its dark, forbidding waters are flanked by the sheer, crumbling Wastwater Screes on one side and some of England's mightiest mountains on the other. The iconic view from the lake's southwestern end towards Yewbarrow, Great Gable, and Scafell Pike was once voted "Britain's Favourite View," and it's easy to see why.
Things to Do & Eat
Activities & Walks
Climb Scafell Pike: Wasdale Head is the starting point for the most direct and popular route up England's highest peak.
Lakeside Strolls: For a gentle experience, enjoy a walk along the single-track road on the lake's north-western shore, offering incredible views at every turn.
Watersports: The lake is popular with divers exploring its depths, as well as canoeists and paddleboarders enjoying the epic scenery.
Where to Eat
The Wasdale Head Inn: A legendary pub known as the birthplace of British climbing. It serves hearty meals and real ales for hungry adventurers.
The Screes Inn & The Strands Inn: Located in the nearby village of Nether Wasdale, these welcoming pubs offer more excellent options for food and drink.
Where to Stay
Holiday Cottages: Immerse yourself in the remote beauty of the valley by renting one of the traditional stone cottages in Wasdale Head or Nether Wasdale.
Hotels & Inns: The famous Wasdale Head Inn offers classic walker's accommodation, steeped in history. You'll find other traditional inns in the surrounding hamlets.
Guesthouses & Camping: For a truly authentic experience, stay in a local farm guesthouse or at the popular National Trust campsite at the head of the lake.
Getting There
By Car: Access to Wasdale is via a narrow, single-track road from the A595 at Gosforth. The journey into the valley is stunning but requires careful driving, especially when passing other vehicles. Parking fills up extremely early, especially on good weather weekends.