Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows, which is a man made lake, was developed from three smaller tarns - which were known as High Tarn, Low Tarn and Middle Tarn. The stream, which joined these tarns, was dammed during the 19th century to create the present lake. In 1929 Beatrix Potter bought the Monk Coniston Estate which included this tarn and she sold half the tarn to the National Trust and bequeathed the other half to them in her will.

The circuit of the tarn is one of the most popular walks in The Lakes so an early arrival is essential to get a car parking space. For more adventurous walkers, at the top end of the tan, a footpath leads up to the summit of Black Crag. The extension is worth it for the views to The Scafells alone.

I just stayed on the top path which leads from a small disabled car park to a National Trust Property called Rose Cottage and possibly gives better views than the lower tourist path. It certainly give a better view of the surrounding hills. The path after that deteriorates and is quite muddy but if you do carry on it, it will eventually lead you downhill to join the main path around the tarn.

Refreshments were had in Coniston where there are numerous cafes and pubs, I settled for a coffee in Herdwicks Cafe which is next to The Ruskin Museum which covers the history of the town since 1901. I think it may be a new cafe as I don't recall seeing it the last time I visited.

A lovely walk which was well worth the journey.