Blea Tarn trail
This walk offers a great opportunity for all to get out into the fells safely, while enjoying brilliant views of Lingmoor and Pike of Blisco and other surrounding Langdale fells.
Map
Start:
Blea Tarn National Trust car park, grid ref: NY295043
1
Carefully cross the road from the Blea Tarn car park and go through the gate opposite.
2
Follow the path steadily down towards the tarn, heading through the second gate. Blea Tarn is one of the most spectacular of the many Lakeland tarns with magnificent views in both directions.
3
The path drops down to the tarn's outflow, where you'll cross a footbridge and take the path on the right.
Blea Tarn
Blea Tarn has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The mountain pool's sediment has not been disturbed since the last Ice Age, providing valuable research. The tarn is a photographer's dream. The famous Langdale Pikes can be viewed across the tarn, while the shores are awash with alpine flowers in the spring and summer. From the tarn looking south, you're presented with a framed view between Lingmoor Fell and Pike of Blisco, looking out over Little Langdale and toward Birk Fell, Wetherlam and the Furness Fells.
4
The route then goes through the wooded area with benches to stop and take in the views. There are numerous seating areas along the walk, where you can take time to sit and appreciate the surroundings.
5
Follow the path out of the wood, through a gate and onto the open fell where you must follow the main path steadily uphill. This leads you to breathtaking views of the Langdale valley.
Views over Little Langdale
The view south, back towards the tarn, takes in the Little Langdale Valley and the Coniston Fells.
6
Go through the gate to reach the views of Great Langdale. From this final point you have two options: you may walk back along the Blea Tarn road to your car, but we advise you to retrace the path back past the tarn to your car where it's quiet and safe from traffic.
Views of Great Langdale
The view north from the road pass into Great Langdale forms a spectacular backdrop to the sweeping valley below. It's also a popular place to stop for a picnic.
End:
Blea Tarn National Trust car park, grid ref: NY295043
