Are you looking for something to do with the kids or the dog or just something that isn’t too strenuous? Look no further than this 4-kilometre Elterwater walk, complete with an optional refreshment stop mid-way at Chesters by the River.
National Trust Parking
The Elterwater walk begins from a National Trust Car park; parking is free to National Trust Members. Elterwater is situated in the stunning valley of Great Langdale, a trendy tourist spot due to its beauty. Locals occupy roughly 25% of the properties; the rest are holiday goers.
Accessible pathway
A gate at the back of the car park leads to the path and the start of the walk. This section is cobbled but still accessible for those with wheelchairs, pushchairs, bikes, etc. You are never far from a babbling brook, beck, gill or lake or some body of water when in the lake district, and this walk will not disappoint. The path follows the line of the Great Langdale Beck into Lake Elterwater.
Lake of the Swans
Elterwater, the lake, shares the same name as the nearby village. The old Norse meaning is “Lake of the Swans”, and true to form, Swans visit the area every year from the 26th of October through to March. There are several benches on the shore, so admire the birdlife or the striking backdrop of the Langdale Pikes in the distance.
Skelwith Force
Follow the Elterwater walk way along the lake shore through some fields, and a couple of gates, then start to track up through the woodland. Here the beck becomes a more powerful gush of the River Brathay and the waterfall Skelwith Force. Stay to the left of the metal footbridge and take the photo opportunity on the rocks next to Skelwith Force. Go with care on the rocks, as they can be slippery.
Chesters on the River
Now for the midway reward and to fuel the rest of the walk. Stay on the path, and you will reach Chesters on The River and Skelwith Bridge. Have a picnic or a tasty snack from the bakery and relax next to the sound of running water. Chesters coffee tastes delicious, especially when you have burned off some steam walking.
Once you have refuelled yourself, head back the way you have come, but this time you are rewarded with the impressive backdrop of Great Langdale Valley to finish up your Elterwater Walk.
Places to stay in Elterwater
If you want to stay in Elterwater as a couple, try The Stable At Oakbank. A well-situated, fully equipped one-bedroom holiday home. All your needs will be catered for here.
If you need something for a larger group or a family, try Gunpowder Cottage. With four bedrooms, this spacious holiday home will give you the room you need for your holiday in Elterwater.
