Ashness Bridge car park

More than just a bridge

Driving from the lakeside in the valley bottom the road up to Ashenss Bridge is steep and narrow with passing places, however the rewards are obvious as this extremely popular viewpoint looks out over Derwent Water with spectacular views extending to Bassenthwaite Lake and taking in the River Derwent.

Bring your camera, as this is probably the most photographed packhorse bridge in the lakes, but if you want a clear shot you'll need to turn up early - or maybe late!

Have you got your walking boots in the car?

Ashness Bridge car park is a great starting point for a walk to Walla Crag, Surprise View or Lodore Falls - download our walking trail below or if you're lucky you might find one of our volunteers in the nearby Barkhouse Mountain Base bothy who could offer you a cuppa and some top tips on where to have your picnic (the bothy is open on an ad hoc basis, so we cannot guarantee it will be manned when you visit).

For more detailed information about Ashness Bridge car park, please take a look at the access statement (PDF / 3.0029296875MB) download

Park up and boost conservation work in Borrowdale

Whether you are a member who scans your card (we get £1 from central funds every time you do) or a non-member who pays for a ticket, every penny you generate in this car park goes to help us take care of this special place, so thank you.

Read about how our woodland ranger has been managing the woodlands for wildlife in this area over the last 20 years: