Wasdale

Lake District

Towering mountains and the deepest lake in England

Lake Head car park, near Seascale, Cumbria, CA20 1EX

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A family walk along the path by the shores of Buttermere on a sunny day with views out to the fells beyond

Car park
National Trust car parks at Lakehead, Overbeck and Nether Wasdale. These are pay and display car parks, free for members. When you scan your membership card, general funds get re-directed to help us look after the valleys, mountains and paths in Wasdale. We don't allow overnight parking due to the impact on nature and wildlife, staff resource and visitors.
Car park - more information
Dogs allowed
Dogs are welcome to our outdoor properties but please keep them under close control to protect stock and wildlife. Take a look at our Canine Code and enjoy a great day out with your pup!
Toilet
National Trust toilet block at our Lakehead car park.
Map
Directions via Google Maps
By train
Nearest train station is Seascale.
Cycling
The nearest Sustrans national cycling route is route 72 along the Cumbrian coast from Kendal to Silloth. There are a number of mountain biking opportunities in the Wasdale area and around Gosforth and Nether Wasdale.
By road
Wasdale 5 miles east of A595, turning at Gosforth.
Parking
Lake Head (OS: NY 182075) and Overbeck (OS: NY 168068) for Wasdale small car park (OS: NY 127038) for Nether Wasdale. Please ensure social distancing. You can find up to date information at www.saferlakes.co.uk Lakehead car park uses the JustPark app and payment machines for member check-in and non-member payments. If you choose to use the JustPark app, please download it before your visit and create an account if you do not already have one. You’ll be asked to add payment details; National Trust members will not be charged for parking. The JustPark codes for this location are 77809 (car) and 77810 (minibus).
Parking - more information

Planning your visit

Climbing Scafell Pike

Find out more about how to prepare for climbing Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain peak, and follow safety procedures.

A cyclist rides down a quiet lane, next to a green pasture with grazing sheep, green trees and rocky fells rising above them, in Wasdale, Lake District

There are 3 National Trust car parks in Wasdale. Find out parking costs and how to find each of the car parks. * Please note there will be an overnight road closure in Wasdale which will limit access to visitors. Cumberland Council will be carrying out carriageway repairs overnight from 18 May for 10 days - 10pm until 6am *

A family return to their car after a winter walk in the Lake District. Two children sit in the open boot of the car as they remove their muddy boots with the help of two adults.

Visiting Wasdale with your dog

Wasdale is a one pawprint rated place. Find out all you need to know about bringing your furry side-kick on an adventure around the lake shore, in the valleys and up the fells.