Wasdale

Lake District

Towering mountains and the deepest lake in England

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

Opening times
See on map

A view of the Wasdale hills reflected in the glassy waters at Wastwater, Lake District

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.
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 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
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.

Opening times for 18 September 2025
Asset	Opening time
Countryside	Dawn - Dusk
Wasdale Campsite	Dawn - Dusk

Climbing Scafell Pike

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

Two walkers with hiking poles crossing over stones while ascending Scafell Pike, Lake District

Car parks in Wasdale

There are 3 National Trust car parks in Wasdale. Find out parking costs and how to find each of the car parks.

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.

A little terrier sitting in the fells looking down at Wastwater below

Upcoming events in Wasdale

Find out what events we have coming up in Wasdale

A woman smelling the leaves of a tree on a forest bathing session

Wild camping in the Lake District

Find out more about wild camping in the Lake District, whether it's right for you and how to do it safely and responsibly.

People inside a tent at night at Wasdale Head campsite, Cumbria

Thinking of heading out to Wasdale? Avoid the search for parking and help us look after the landscape and local community by taking the FREE Wasdale explorer shuttle bus. Running every weekend and bank holiday from April 18 to September 21 2025, take the bus and take the stress out of a trip out to the West Lakes. Click here for maps, timetables and more.