Watendlath National Trust car park Borrowdale

The hamlet of Watendlath, Borrowdale, Lake District

With around 45 spaces, there's plenty of room to park at Watendlath. The approach road, although extremely scenic, is very narrow and definitely not for the faint-hearted.

How to get here

  • Postcode: CA12 5UW (please note that in rural locations post codes often cover a wide area - so don't believe the SatNav, look for the signs!)

  • Grid ref: Grid ref: NY275163

  • Find us on Google Maps

The quiet Watendlath hamlet nestles high above Borrowdale (263m) and is reached by a winding road with many passing places. However, the stunning views of the picturesque hanging valley as you carefully drive along, following Watendlath Beck to Watendlath Farm, makes it all worthwhile, where you will find tarn, tea and toilets. Please note its best to call ahead to check the opening hours of Caffle House tearoom (not National Trust).

Car parking charges for Borrowdale

How much does it cost to park? 

National Trust members can scan to park for free, but if you’re not a member don't forget some change as due to our rural location there is very limited mobile signal which means we can't take card or phone payment. Every penny directly funds our work in the valley to care for wildlife, walls, paths, cottages and farms.

Once at the car park you will be rewarded as the valley opens up before you with its rocky outcrops, woodlands, and medieval farmed landscape. Just behind the farm you will find an attractive tarn with views of the fell.

Explore with a MPV

Access Statements for Borrowdale 

Need more information to help you decide if a car park's the right place to start your day out?

Fancy a walk?

Explore the packhorse trails that climb up the valley slopes, or use Watendlath as the starting point on this moderate downloadable trail (instead of Rosthwaite):

Boats and ducks on Watendlath Tarn, Lake District
Borrowdale and Derwent Water   Cumbria

Rosthwaite Round, fells, tarn and beck walk

Along this favourite walk that takes you to a Borrowdale gem - the hamlet of Watendlath, you'll discover oak woodland, two tarns (mountain ponds) and stunning Lakeland views.

Get some fresh air in the Lake District

Stay the night?

Walker resting outside Watendlath Bothy, Cumbria

Watendlath Bothy, Cumbria 

Looking for a base for a walking break in the Lake District? This rustic bothy is situated in a picturesque location in the Borrowdale Valley. The bothy can accommodate six people and one dog, so you can bring your four-legged friend along too. It also benefits from a fully-equipped kitchen and a log-burner for colder days.

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.