Top 5 Lakes around Natland

Natland is a gateway to the Lake District National Park, so you'll find a variety of water bodies. These include smaller, local tarns like Gurnal Dubs Tarn and Potter Tarn, as well as estate lakes such as the mirror lake at Sizergh Castle and Gardens. The wider Lake District offers iconic larger lakes like Windermere and Ullswater, which are easily accessible from Natland.

Yes, several spots are great for families. Sizergh Castle and Gardens features a mirror lake within its extensive grounds, offering gardens and a castle to explore. Potter Tarn is also considered family-friendly, and Ghyll Pool, brimming with fish and ducks, is a small, pleasant spot for children.

For a refreshing dip, Gurnal Dubs Tarn is a popular spot for wild swimming in summer. It even has steps for easy entry, making it a favorite among locals.

Absolutely. Sizergh Castle and Gardens is a significant historical site near Natland, featuring a medieval fortified manor house, beautiful gardens, and a mirror lake. The estate has been home to 30 generations of the Strickland family and offers a rich history to explore.

The lakes offer diverse and scenic views. From Gurnal Dubs Tarn, you can enjoy superb views across nearby Kendal. Potter Tarn also provides views down into Kendal. For broader Lake District vistas, venturing to larger lakes like Ullswater will reward you with dramatic mountain scenery.

Yes, there are many opportunities for walking. The grounds of Sizergh Castle and Gardens offer wonderful walks through woodlands and orchards. While Potter Tarn can involve steep sections from Bowston, there are winding routes from the Longsleddale Road end. For more extensive walking, the Lake District National Park, easily accessible from Natland, has countless trails around its major lakes.

Beyond exploring the lakes themselves, the area around Natland offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring, road cycling, and mountain biking trails. For example, there are routes like the 'Lancaster Canal Trail' for touring bicycles or 'Sedgwick and Holme loop' for road cycling. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around Natland, Road Cycling Routes around Natland, and MTB Trails around Natland guides.

Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Highlights like Gurnal Dubs Tarn are praised as perfect spots for a refreshing dip and offer superb views. The historic charm and extensive gardens of Sizergh Castle and Gardens are also highly valued for exploration and relaxation.

Yes, particularly at Sizergh Castle and Gardens, there is a cafe on-site. While it can be a bit pricey, it offers a convenient spot for tea, coffee, and cake. For other lakes, you might find options in nearby villages or towns like Kendal, which is often referred to as the 'gateway to the Lakes'.

Natland is conveniently located on the edge of the Lake District National Park, making larger lakes like Windermere, Coniston Water, Ullswater, and Derwentwater easily accessible by car. Kendal, often called 'the gateway to the Lakes,' is very close and serves as a hub for reaching these iconic destinations.

While the guide highlights popular spots, the area around Natland is rich with smaller tarns and natural features. Ghyll Pool, a small collection of water running from Potter Tarn and Gurnal Dubs, is a charming, less-known spot brimming with fish and ducks, offering a peaceful experience away from larger crowds.

The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for wild swimming at spots like Gurnal Dubs Tarn and enjoying water sports on larger lakes. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds, perfect for walking and exploring the changing landscapes. Winter can provide dramatic, serene views, though some facilities might have reduced hours.