Tarn Hows lies close to an important boundary of two major rock types and this has a dramatic effect on the scenery viewed from here.
To the north-west are rocks of the Borrowdale volcanic group, eroded remains of ancient volcanoes now forming the high fells of Coniston, Langdale and beyond.
© National Trust
To the south-east lie younger rocks of the Windermere group which form the contrasting gently rolling hills, these sedimentary rocks were originally laid down in layers on the floor of an ancient sea.
Back to the Ice Age
Glaciation has shaped the landscape we see today. During the last glaciation (26,000 to 10,000 years ago) a huge depth of ice swept over the whole area, scouring away at the rock.
 
© NTPL/Joe Cornish
The harder and more resistant volcanic rocks were left steep and craggy whereas the relatively soft sedimentary rocks were heavily eroded and left smooth.
Many aspects of the landscape, including drystone walls, building styles and agricultural use, reflect the underlying changes in geology.
© National Trust
|
