Best lakes around Irton With Santon are situated in a civil parish within the Lake District National Park. This area is characterized by its fells, tarns, and the River Irt, which flows from Wast Water. It serves as a base for exploring various bodies of water, including England's deepest lake, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region provides numerous hiking routes and opportunities to experience natural features near Irton With Santon.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Lots of 'rock gardens' making this challenging. The descent is extremely tough. Got off the bike a few times. With no body protection equipment, it is not worth the risk.
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a tarn not many people vist, if your looking for solitude and a wild camp, this is the place
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This small tarn is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscaps, including the Langdale Pikes to the south and Harter Fell to the north.
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Not a great path up or down but awesome views and feels quite wild coming over from Wastwater.
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An hidden gem a bit boggy for a walk but take you boat out and enjoy
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Really beautiful tarn. Dont expect amazing trail but its a stunning spot.
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The area around Irton With Santon is rich with diverse water features. Key highlights include Wast Water, England's deepest lake, known for its dramatic mountain backdrop. You can also explore the tranquil Blea Tarn, the expansive Burnmoor Tarn, and the secluded Devoke Water. The River Irt, flowing from Wast Water to Ravenglass, is also a significant natural feature.
Yes, there are options suitable for families. Blea Tarn is specifically noted as a family-friendly viewpoint, surrounded by impressive mountain landscapes. While not explicitly listed as 'easy', many riverside paths along the River Irt offer gentle walks for all ages. For more structured family walks, consider exploring the 'easy' rated routes in the Hiking around Irton With Santon guide.
The lakes and surrounding fells offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and climbing, especially around Wast Water with ascents to Scafell Pike. Wild swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular on the lakes. For hiking, explore routes in the Hiking around Irton With Santon guide, or for more challenging climbs, check the Mountain Hikes around Irton With Santon guide. Mountain biking is also an option, with trails listed in the MTB Trails around Irton With Santon guide.
For a more tranquil experience away from the crowds, consider visiting Low Birker Tarn. It's described as one of the Lake District's 'prettier, but less well-known' tarns, offering crystal-clear waters and a scenic backdrop of Green Crag. It's ideal for walkers seeking peace and quiet.
Wast Water is England's deepest lake, plunging to 258 feet (79 meters). Its dramatic setting is defined by towering mountains like Scafell Pike and the distinctive Wastwater Screes, which drop steeply to the water's edge. The views from Wast Water, particularly towards Great Gable, are so spectacular that it was voted Britain's favourite view in 2007.
While the focus is on natural beauty, the area does have historical elements. Near Low Birker Tarn, you can explore prehistoric cairnfields and hut circle settlements, offering a glimpse into ancient history. The River Irt is also crossed by the historic Drigg Holme packhorse bridge, adding to the charm for those interested in local heritage.
The Lake District offers beauty year-round, but the best time to visit often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for water activities like swimming and paddleboarding, though it can be busier. Winter offers a stark, dramatic landscape for experienced walkers.
Yes, wild swimming is possible in some of the lakes. Wast Water is suitable for wild swimming, and there are opportunities for a cool dip with caution at Devoke Water. Always exercise caution, be aware of water temperatures, and understand local conditions when wild swimming.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the dramatic and remote beauty of the lakes. Many highlight the spectacular views from Wast Water, especially the vista towards Great Gable. The serene and rugged landscapes, opportunities for photography, and the chance to find tranquil spots like Low Birker Tarn are also highly appreciated.
The Esk Gorge Scramble Start is a challenging outdoor activity located near the River Esk. It involves an impressive scramble, rated as a 3-star, grade 2 scramble. It's recommended for those with prior scrambling experience due to its challenging nature.
Yes, Burnmoor Tarn is one of the largest completely natural tarns in the Lake District. It flows into the River Esk and has a maximum depth of 43 feet (13 m). You can find the former fishing lodge of Burnmoor Lodge nearby on its southern shore.


Still not found your perfect lake around Irton With Santon? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.