Top 20 Lakes around Lorton
Best lakes around Lorton offer a diverse natural landscape, characterized by fells, tarns, and expansive waters. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst scenic views. The area is known for its distinctive geological features and historical connections to figures like Alfred Wainwright. Visitors can explore a variety of natural settings, from elevated viewpoints to tranquil lake shores.
Best lakes around Lorton
- The most popular lakes is View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water, a viewpoint that rises above Derwentwater's eastern shore. It offers splendid views across the lake towards Catbells.
- Another must-see spot is Buttermere Lake, a lake with a 4-mile (6 km) circular trail. Visitors can experience the beauty of Buttermere, which lies at the foot of spectacular fells.
- Visitors also love Innominate Tarn, a lake located on Haystacks. This tarn is known for its quiet, lonely setting and 360-degree views.
- Lorton is known for its fells, tarns, and large lakes. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with accessible trails to more secluded tarns.
- The lakes around Lorton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and over 300 photos shared.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
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Along with Latrigg, this is the easiest Wainwright summit to ascend directly from Keswick. It's not far from the picturesque and historic Castlerigg Stone Circle either, a classic vantage for Blencathra. Walla Crag can be linked with Bleaberry Fell and High Seat — a nice but often boggy fell walk.
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Derwent Water
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Low Brandlehow Jetty
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These cruises sail past Derwentwater's four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island. The latter can be seen from the west shore, and is named after the saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend tells us that on St Herbert's death on 20th March 687, his wish to die the same day as his great friend, St Cuthbert, was fufilled. After his death, the island he lived on as a hermit became a place of pilgrimage, and St. Herbert’s cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth.
St Herbert’s is also the inspiration for the fictional Owl Island in Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’. Derwentwater and St. Herbert’s Island was also used as a filming location for the 1974 and 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
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Buttermere Lake
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Innominate Tarn
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Popular around Lorton
St Bega's Way and Back — A pilgrimage hike from coast to mountains
C2C — Cycling spectacular wilderness from coast to coast
MTB Trails around Lorton
Hiking around Lorton
Running Trails around Lorton
Road Cycling Routes around Lorton
Cycling around Lorton
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Tips from the Community
After 2 or 3 miles the path is impassable, and so there is some road walking.
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Tranquil place where you can go open water swimming
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Peaceful albeit can get busy with hikers on a clear day. Perfect spot for lunch.
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Keswick Launch jetty. Tickets can be purchased on the boat. For more details about Keswick Launch, visit https://keswick-launch.co.uk/ These cruises sail past Derwentwater's four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island. The latter can be seen from the west shore, and is named after the saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend tells us that on St Herbert's death on 20th March 687, his wish to die the same day as his great friend, St Cuthbert, was fufilled. After his death, the island he lived on as a hermit became a place of pilgrimage, and St. Herbert’s cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth. St Herbert’s is also the inspiration for the fictional Owl Island in Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’. Derwentwater and St. Herbert’s Island was also used as a filming location for the 1974 and 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and viewpoints around Lorton?
Visitors frequently enjoy the View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water, which offers splendid views across the lake towards Catbells. Another highly regarded spot is Buttermere Lake, known for its awe-inspiring beauty and a 4-mile circular trail.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Lorton?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Buttermere Lake offers an easy-going 4-mile circular walk that is enjoyable for all ages. Additionally, Low Brandlehow Jetty on Derwentwater is a family-friendly spot, and the nearby town of Keswick provides numerous facilities and attractions for families.
What kind of trails can I find around the lakes near Lorton?
You'll find a variety of trails. Buttermere Lake features a popular 4-mile (6 km) circular trail. For those seeking more challenging routes, Walla Crag offers a climb with great views. The area is known for its fells, providing options from accessible paths to more secluded tarns.
Where can I find facilities like cafes or pubs near the lakes?
The town of Keswick, located a few miles from Derwentwater, is a hub for visitors. It offers a wide selection of cafes, pubs, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding lakes.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the Lorton area?
Yes, Low Brandlehow Jetty on Derwentwater is noted as a tranquil place where you can go open water swimming, offering a peaceful experience amidst the natural beauty.
What are some unique natural features or landmarks to see?
Beyond the stunning lake views, you can visit Innominate Tarn on Haystacks, a quiet and lonely spot known for its 360-degree views and its connection to Alfred Wainwright. The area also features distinctive geological formations and fells.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking?
The region around Lorton offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including a difficult 104 km loop from Lorton to View of Derwent Water and Grasmere Lake. Mountain biking trails are also available, such as the difficult 16.7 km Whinlatter Forest loop. For more details on these activities, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Lorton and MTB Trails around Lorton guides.
Are there running trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails. Options range from moderate routes like the 6.9 km Siskins Cafe – Whinlatter Mountain Bike Trails loop to more difficult ones such as the 12.4 km Gruffalo Viewpoint – Whinlatter Pass loop. You can explore more running options in the Running Trails around Lorton guide.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes around Lorton?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, particularly from spots like Walla Crag. The tranquility of places like Low Brandlehow Jetty and the unique, quiet setting of Innominate Tarn are also highly valued. The overall natural beauty and the variety of trails for walking and cycling are consistently highlighted.
Can I learn about the history of the area while visiting the lakes?
Yes, the area has rich historical connections. For instance, Low Brandlehow Jetty is near St Herbert's Island on Derwentwater, named after a saint from 685 AD, and was also a filming location for 'Swallows and Amazons'. The town of Keswick itself is a market town dating back to 1276 with cultural attractions like the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery.
Is it possible to take a boat trip on any of the lakes?
Yes, you can take boat trips on Derwentwater. From Low Brandlehow Jetty, you can embark on Keswick Launch cruises that sail past Derwentwater's four historic islands. Tickets can be purchased directly on the boat.
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