Attractions and Places To See around Borrowdale - Top 20

Borrowdale offers several attractions suitable for families. The hike to Catbells Summit is a classic Lakeland outing with fun terrain and spectacular views, often enjoyed by all ages. Rydal Cave, a large man-made cave from slate mining, is also a popular spot for families to explore. Additionally, the unique Bowder Stone, a colossal balancing rock, has a ladder for climbing and has been a family favorite since Georgian times. Derwent Water also provides opportunities for lake cruises and paddleboarding.

Borrowdale is renowned for its stunning vistas. Loughrigg Fell summit offers an unrivaled panorama due to its prominent position at the junction of five major valley systems. Catbells Summit provides mind-boggling views of the Borrowdale valley and Derwent Water. For expansive and sudden vistas, visit Surprise View, located just beyond Ashness Bridge, offering views over Derwent Water, Keswick, and the Skiddaw massif.

Yes, Borrowdale is a gateway to some of the Lake District's most challenging hikes. Helvellyn Summit, the third highest mountain in the Lake District, offers a legendary horseshoe ridge including Striding Edge and Swirral Edge. Scafell Pike summit, England's highest mountain, is also accessible from Borrowdale, particularly from Seathwaite, offering challenging routes for experienced hikers. You can find more challenging routes in the Hiking around Borrowdale guide.

Borrowdale boasts several unique natural features. The Bowder Stone is a remarkable 2,000-ton volcanic rock balancing precariously. Lodore Falls is a majestic waterfall, particularly impressive after heavy rain. The Borrowdale Rainforest, recently designated a National Nature Reserve, is a rare temperate rainforest habitat with lush, moss- and lichen-covered ancient oak woodlands, thriving in England's wettest inhabited place.

Borrowdale has a rich cultural heritage. Rydal Cave, though man-made, is an old slate quarry offering a glimpse into the region's mining history. The Honister Slate Mine, located at the top of Honister Pass, provides tours into the depths of the earth, showcasing the region's mining heritage. The farming landscape, with its ancient dry-stone walls and hamlets like Watendlath, Rosthwaite, Seatoller, and Seathwaite, reflects centuries of agricultural tradition. Yew Tree Farm is a historic guesthouse offering an authentic Borrowdale experience.

Yes, Borrowdale offers several easy walking trails suitable for a relaxed outing. The Easy hikes around Borrowdale guide features routes like the High Steel Knott Valley Path loop from Grange and the View of Derwent Water – Catbells Summit loop from Grange, which are rated as easy. These trails allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty without strenuous effort.

For cyclists, Borrowdale offers scenic road cycling routes. The Road Cycling Routes around Borrowdale guide includes options like the Honister Pass and Buttermere loop from Keswick, and the Newlands Valley – View of Derwent Water loop from Borrowdale. These routes provide varying distances and difficulties, allowing you to explore the area on two wheels.

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular views and diverse terrain. For instance, the hike along Catbells Summit is loved for its fun terrain, breathtaking views, and numerous picnic spots. The magnificent views from Helvellyn Summit, especially along Striding Edge, are frequently highlighted. Many also enjoy the unique experience of exploring Rydal Cave and the unparalleled panoramas from Loughrigg Fell summit.

Yes, Borrowdale is home to Honister Pass, a dramatic mountain pass known for its scenic, albeit steep and narrow, drive. At the top of the pass, you'll find the Honister Slate Mine, which offers tours and insights into the region's industrial past. This pass also serves as a starting point for various challenging hikes.

Ashness Bridge is arguably the most photographed packhorse bridge in the Lake District. It offers spectacular views over Derwent Water, Bassenthwaite Lake, and the River Derwent, making it a popular spot for photographers and sightseers alike.

Watendlath is a tranquil hamlet situated high in a hanging valley, featuring a tarn of the same name. It's a popular spot for walkers and anglers, offering a peaceful escape amidst ancient dry-stone walls and traditional farm buildings. The Borrowdale Rainforest also provides a unique and lush environment for nature enthusiasts.

Scafell Pike, England's highest peak, is accessible from Borrowdale, particularly from the village of Seathwaite. It offers challenging hikes and awe-inspiring views for those prepared for the ascent.