The best walks and hikes around Tarn Hows
4.6
(12891)
110,627
hikers
1,103
hikes
Hiking around Tarn Hows offers routes centered on a man-made tarn surrounded by wooded hills and conifer forests. The area is part of the Lake District National Park and features well-maintained paths with views of the Coniston hills and Langdale Pikes. The terrain ranges from level, accessible lakeside paths to more moderate ascents to nearby viewpoints.
Best hiking trails around Tarn Hows
- The most popular hiking route is Around Tarn Hows — Lake District National Park, a 2.0 mile (3.2 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This accessible circular walk follows a well-surfaced path around the water's edge.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Tarn Hows, Tom Gill & Tom Heights loop — Lake District National Park, an easy 2.8 mile (4.5 km) path. This route adds a woodland section that passes the Tom Gill waterfall.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Tarn Hows – Black Crag loop from Holme Fell, a 7.5 mile (12.1 km) trail leading through woodland and up to the Black Crag viewpoint, often completed in about 3 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Tarn Hows is defined by its picturesque tarn, surrounding wooded hills, and views towards higher fells. The network of paths provides accessible, pram-friendly options as well as more challenging routes with greater elevation gain.
- The routes in Tarn Hows are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 12,000 reviews. More than 100,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Tarn Hows's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.7
(46)
518
hikers
3.19km
00:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(33)
85
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(41)
222
hikers
9.48km
02:41
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(43)
362
hikers
12.1km
03:40
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(14)
64
hikers
9.42km
02:42
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Black Fell (or Black Crag) is a 323-metre (1,056-foot) Wainwright that is often accessed from Tarn Hows. However, if you want a quick ascent, you park at the Cathedral Cave car park on the A593, this will give you a quick up-and-down option. It is a great little fell with its trig-pointed summit giving you great views of Windermere and the surrounding hills.
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"Doors Open" during our visit and well worth it.
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Large car park - which can be paid for with card. You will need your card.
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Thanks for sharing such great information, I highly appreciate your hard-working skills as the post you published have some great information which is quite beneficial for me, I hope you will post more like that in the future https://www.marykayintouches.com
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A walk around Tarn Hows will give you views of the lake from different places. And you will always discover new things on the lake.
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According to an age-old tradition, you can make a wish if you leave a coin at such a tree. Because people have a lot to wish for, several trees are now full of coins. According to an article by the BBC, the idea originated in Scotland around 1700. There, people thought that if you hammered a coin into a tree trunk, you could be cured of the illness you were suffering from at the time. Of course, something like that is always worth a try. (Mixed Grill)
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The actual summit is over the wall from the trig point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walks around Tarn Hows suitable for families with pushchairs?
Yes, the main circular path around Tarn Hows is designated as a 'Miles Without Stiles' trail. It features a well-maintained, smooth, compact stone surface, making it ideal for families with pushchairs and visitors with limited mobility. The Around Tarn Hows walk is a perfect example of an accessible route.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Yes, Tarn Hows is a very dog-friendly destination. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but it's important to keep them under control, especially around the Belted Galloway cattle and Herdwick sheep that graze in the area. Please be mindful of other walkers and wildlife.
Are there any walks that include a waterfall?
Absolutely. The Tom Gill Waterfall is a major highlight of the area. You can incorporate it into your hike with the Tarn Hows, Tom Gill & Tom Heights loop. This route takes you through a lovely wooded ravine to see the fast-flowing stream.
What are the parking options at Tarn Hows?
The main car park is managed by the National Trust and is located directly at the main trailhead. It's a pay-and-display car park, and it can get very busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a space.
Are there any more challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
Yes, for those seeking more of a challenge with rewarding views, the Tarn Hows – Black Crag loop from Holme Fell is an excellent choice. This longer route involves more elevation gain and leads to the summit of Black Crag, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding fells.
Can I start a hike from Coniston village?
Yes, hiking from Coniston to Tarn Hows is a popular option. It allows you to enjoy a longer walk and experience more of the surrounding countryside without needing to drive directly to the tarn. The North Shore of Coniston Water – Cumbria Way Path loop is a great moderate route that starts near the village.
Are there any good pubs or cafes for after a hike?
While there are no pubs directly at the tarn itself, the nearby villages of Coniston and Hawkshead offer a great selection of traditional pubs and charming cafes. They are just a short drive away and provide the perfect place to relax and refuel after your walk.
What is the best time of year to visit Tarn Hows?
Tarn Hows is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, summer offers long days for hiking, autumn is famous for its spectacular foliage colours, and a crisp winter day can provide stunning frosty landscapes. Autumn is particularly popular with photographers.
How many hiking trails are available around Tarn Hows?
There is a vast network of trails to explore. While there are several well-known signposted routes, komoot features over 1,000 hiking routes in the area, ranging from easy, accessible paths to challenging fell walks.
What do other hikers think of the trails at Tarn Hows?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 12,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes suitable for all abilities.
Are there options for longer, full-day hikes?
Certainly. If you're looking for a longer day out, the Tarn Hows – Hawkshead Village loop is a moderate 6-mile (9.6 km) route. It connects Tarn Hows with the picturesque village of Hawkshead, offering a varied walk through woodland and pastoral landscapes.
Most popular routes around Tarn Hows
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