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A mini guide to
Wasdale & Eskdale: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Plan for single-track roads
The National Park Authority says the road to Wasdale Head is narrow and single-track and parking is very limited, and recommends the Wasdale Explorer where it runs.
Scafell Pike needs a plan
The Authority tells walkers to arrive with a plan and the right kit. Check its walkers checklist and the weather forecast before you set out.
Walk from Dalegarth
The Authority describes a River Esk loop from the railway stations as an easy walk of roughly 2.5 hours, and a walk from Dalegarth to Stanley Ghyll waterfall, which has a new viewing platform.
Stile-free routes
The Authority lists easy-access Miles without Stiles routes at Dalegarth in Eskdale and at Walls Drive in Ravenglass.
Catch the view
The view along Wast Water towards Great Gable is the basis of the National Park's logo, according to the Authority.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Wasdale & Eskdale?
Wasdale & Eskdale is in Cumbria, England. England's deepest lake and highest mountain, and a little railway through Eskdale. Nearby stops and stations include Ravenglass, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale Explorer.
How long do I need in Wasdale & Eskdale?
1 to 2 days. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Wast Water, Scafell Pike, Great Gable. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Ravenglass (Northern); Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway); Wasdale Explorer (Reays Coaches, for the National Park Authority). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 8 places to eat and drink in and around Wasdale & Eskdale, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 8 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Wasdale & Eskdale accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Wasdale & Eskdale
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Scafell Pike
England's highest mountain at 978 metres, part of the Scafell massif above Wast Water.
Great Gable
Pyramid-shaped mountain at the head of Wasdale; the view over Wast Water to it is the basis of the National Park's logo.
St Olaf's Church
Tiny church at Wasdale Head, at the north-eastern end of Wast Water.
The Lake District
More areas to explore
Windermere & Bowness
England's largest lake, with lake cruises, a railway station and a lakeside town
Open the mini guide →
Ambleside & Grasmere
A walking town at the head of Windermere and Wordsworth's village, linked along the Rothay valley
Open the mini guide →
Keswick & Derwentwater
A market town on the shore of Derwentwater, with a stone circle, a theatre and fells on every side
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- Wast Water: James Johnstone from Ecclefechan, Scotland, CC BY 2.0, source
- Scafell Pike: Thorneh at English Wikipedia, Public domain, source
- Great Gable: Anthony Foster, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- St Olaf's Church: Brian Deegan, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Windermere & Bowness: Anthony Foster, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Ambleside & Grasmere: Bill Boaden, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Keswick & Derwentwater: Antiquary, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Ullswater & Pooley Bridge: Steve Daniels, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Coniston & Hawkshead: Martin Jeffries, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring the Lake District