Best lakes around Over Staveley provides access to a variety of water bodies in the Lake District. The area serves as a gateway to England's largest lake, Windermere, and is surrounded by smaller, picturesque tarns. Visitors can explore diverse natural landscapes, from tranquil tarns to expansive lake views, making it a notable destination for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Popular around Over Staveley
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Red Screes, at a rocky 776 meters (2,546 feet), is famous for its steep approach from Red Screes. It's a good, stiff walk and can be a bit hands-on here and there, but the trail is good and well marked. It has a trig point and a stone shelter at the summit. It is wise to be careful here in poor visibility, as the drops are severe. I would make a comment about the views, but I couldn't see much today.
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Great shortcut rather than heading around the north of the lake.
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This is the view of Rough Crag on the way up to High Street. A classic Lake District ridge. Its rugged spine rises sharply above Haweswater.
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Conservation is a big part of the area. RSPB and United Waters have joined forces to offers a good habitat to peregrine falcons, redstarts, and ring ouzels as a few examples of the bird-species and ensuring that the forest offers a good nesting and foraging ground for red squirrels. A donation cairn, to support the RSPB’s work at Wild Haweswater, is situated in the car park. They suggest a donation of £2, but any amount large or small is gratefully received. Please note that only cash donations can be made in the cairn as the lack of mobile phone reception means they are unable to take card payments. However, if you wish to send an online donation to support their work, you can do so here. There is also a Mountain Rescue cairn in the car park, you are kindly encourage you to support their life-saving work if you feel able to.
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The variation of landscape and ruggedness can be seen here, up and down rock formations, dry stone wall lined cycleways. The Lake District is very impressive
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This area has very nice views. Snow capped rugged hills in the distance. There is a lake which is idyllic with elevated hill sides, where people sit and admire the views
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Over Staveley provides excellent access to several notable water bodies. You can explore England's largest lake, Windermere, which offers diverse activities and stunning scenery. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting smaller, picturesque tarns like Gurnal Dubs and Potter Tarn, known for peaceful walks. The Kentmere Valley, with its reservoir and fells, also offers rugged beauty.
For breathtaking views, head to Orrest Head. This viewpoint is easily ascended from Windermere station and offers expansive vistas across the tumultuous Lakeland skyline, famously inspiring Alfred Wainwright. Another challenging option with excellent views in all directions is Red Screes summit cairn.
Yes, several options are suitable for families. The walk up to Orrest Head is relatively easy and rewards with superb views. The Windermere Ferry Crossing and Windermere Ferry itself can be a fun experience for all ages, offering unique perspectives of the lake. The Claife Heights Trail also features gently undulating scenery and tarns, providing immense beauty for exploration.
Yes, Gurnal Dubs is recognized as a popular spot for wild swimming. It offers a refreshing experience amidst beautiful and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal choice for those looking to take a dip in nature.
For a quieter experience, consider visiting Gurnal Dubs and Potter Tarn. These tarns are known for their tranquil and scenic beauty and are popular for peaceful walks originating from Staveley. The Kentmere Valley, with its reservoir and fells, also offers a more rugged and serene environment away from the busiest tourist spots.
The area around Over Staveley is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, hiking, and running. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Barley Bridge Weir – View of Kentmere Horseshoe loop' or 'Three Rivers Bridleway – Barley Bridge Weir loop' as detailed in the Cycling around Over Staveley guide. Hiking options range from easy strolls to challenging fell walks, with examples in the Easy hikes around Over Staveley guide, and running trails are available in the Running Trails around Over Staveley guide.
Absolutely. For easy hikes, consider routes like 'St Margaret's Tower, Staveley – Staveley Mill Weir loop' or 'Staveley Mill Weir – Stone Bridge Near Staveley loop'. If you're looking for more challenging fell walks, the Kentmere Valley offers the 'Kentmere Round', a horseshoe of high fells. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Over Staveley guide.
The Lake District offers beauty year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with fewer crowds. Summer is popular for watersports and longer daylight hours, though it can be busier. Winter offers a dramatic landscape, but trails can be challenging with ice and snow, requiring appropriate gear and experience.
Many trails around the lakes in the Lake District are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep dogs on a lead where required, and clean up after them. Specific restrictions might apply in certain areas or nature reserves, so check local signage.
The weather in the Lake District can change rapidly. It's advisable to pack layers, including waterproof and windproof outer shells, even on sunny days. Sturdy walking boots are essential for varied terrain. Bring a map, compass or GPS, sufficient water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. For winter visits, add extra warm layers, hat, gloves, and consider microspikes or crampons for icy conditions.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes, from the tranquil tarns to the expansive views of Windermere. The area's appeal is evident with over 350 upvotes and 150 photos shared by the komoot community across various highlights. Many appreciate the opportunity for peaceful walks, refreshing wild swims, and the stunning panoramic vistas from viewpoints like Orrest Head.
While many trails in the Lake District involve varied terrain, the Windermere Ferry is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a way to experience the lake. For specific accessible paths, it's best to check local visitor information centers, as dedicated accessible routes can vary.


Still not found your perfect lake around Over Staveley? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.