Top 20 Lakes in the Pennines Mountains
Best lakes in the Pennines Mountains are found within a rugged landscape often referred to as the "backbone of England." This region features numerous reservoirs that are vital for water supply, alongside natural lakes. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities, wildlife observation, and enjoying tranquil scenery. The Pennines landscape characteristics around reservoirs include wild moors, remote fells, and green dales, creating a dramatic backdrop for these bodies of water.
Best lakes in the Pennines Mountains
- The most popular lakes is Helvellyn Summit, a summit that is home to a horseshoe ridge of legendary quality. This mountain offers magnificent views and a classic Lakeland experience.
- Another must-see spot is Orrest Head, a viewpoint that rewards walkers with a sublime vista for relatively little effort. It is easily ascended from Windermere station and offers good views of the lake.
- Visitors also love Tarn Hows, a natural monument and lake. This location is known for its scenic beauty and offers wheelchair-accessible routes.
- Pennines Mountains is known for both natural lakes and significant reservoirs. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, from expansive reservoirs to high-altitude tarns.
- The lakes in the Pennines Mountains are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 841 upvotes and 427 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Helvellyn Summit
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Rydal Cave
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Take the stepping stones through the shallow water at the entrance to the drier part of the cave. A torch is not really necessary.
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Orrest Head
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The effect of the view on the 23-year-old Wainwright must have been something indeed. He went on to explore the region at length and wrote seven classic guidebooks to the Lakeland Fells, which have become interwoven into the fabric of the place to such an extent that most of Cumbria's hills and mountains are now known as Wainwrights. But that's another story...
Orrest Head rewards the walker with this sublime viewpoint for relatively little effort. It is easily ascended from Windermere station and is within walking distance of Troutbeck Bridge and Bowness-on-Windermere too.
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Catstye Cam
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As well as from Swirral Edge, you can approach Catstycam via its eastern shoulder from the main path to Red Tarn. The most adventurous way up is probably the north west ridge, which is steep, wild but without technical difficulty.
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Red Screes summit cairn
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In poor weather Red Screes can be a dangerous place to be with the rocks becoming slippery in the wet and a gust of wind could result in a nasty fall - one Mountain Rescue volunteer fell in early 2021 and sustained life-changing injuries during a rescue.
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View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
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Along with Latrigg, this is the easiest Wainwright summit to ascend directly from Keswick. It's not far from the picturesque and historic Castlerigg Stone Circle either, a classic vantage for Blencathra. Walla Crag can be linked with Bleaberry Fell and High Seat — a nice but often boggy fell walk.
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Sheffield Pike
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Striding Edge
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Tarn Hows
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View of Rydal Water
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Popular around Pennines Mountains
Supporting the National Three Peaks FKT in true Green Runners’ Style
Ephemeral Lines – Stunning UK Winter Ridges
Second City Divide — Rough Stuff Of The North
Lakeland 300 — Bikepacking in the hills of the Lake District
Lakeland 100 – ultra tour of the Lake District
Lake District National Park – A Walk in the Parks
Yorkshire Dales National Park – A Walk in the Parks
Cumbrian Traverse – A sublime high-level hike across Lakeland
Windermere Way — Hike a poetic loop of a Lakeland legend
A Dales High Way – Hiking in winter
Other adventures in the Pennines Mountains
Tips from the Community
Red Screes, at a rocky 776 meters (2,546 feet), is famous for its steep approach from Red Screes. It's a good, stiff walk and can be a bit hands-on here and there, but the trail is good and well marked. It has a trig point and a stone shelter at the summit. It is wise to be careful here in poor visibility, as the drops are severe. I would make a comment about the views, but I couldn't see much today.
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The extra elevation of this path gives excellent views of Rydal Water and the surrounding hills..
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The beautiful Tarn Hows offers an accessible circular walk (2.4km) through beautiful countryside with majestic mountain views. A great place to walk on a well maintained path. It can get busy though.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic lakes and reservoirs in the Pennines Mountains?
The Pennines offer a variety of beautiful waters. In the North Pennines AONB, Cow Green Reservoir is known for its picturesque moorland and proximity to Cauldron Snout waterfall. Grassholme Reservoir provides serene views of the Teesdale valley. In the Yorkshire Dales, Grimwith Reservoir is the largest expanse of inland water in Yorkshire, while Malham Tarn is England's highest natural lake, offering unique plant and animal life.
Are there family-friendly walks around the lakes in the Pennines?
Yes, several lakes in the Pennines are ideal for families. Grassholme Reservoir in the North Pennines has a circular footpath suitable for all ages and abilities. In the Yorkshire Dales, Grimwith Reservoir offers a 7km walk on good surfaces, and Malham Tarn has circular routes, including wheelchair-accessible options and all-terrain wheelchairs available for borrowing. For a general family-friendly experience, Tarn Hows is also a great choice.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the Pennines lakes?
The Pennines lakes and reservoirs are excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Watersports like sailing, windsurfing, and paddle sports are available at places like Grassholme Reservoir and Grimwith Reservoir. For specific hiking routes, you can explore options in the Easy hikes in the Pennines Mountains guide or the Waterfall hikes in the Pennines Mountains guide. Mountain biking trails are also available, as detailed in the MTB Trails in the Pennines Mountains guide.
Which Pennines lakes are good for birdwatching?
Many Pennines lakes are havens for birdwatchers. Cow Green Reservoir is popular with bird watchers due to its protected nature reserve status. Grassholme Reservoir is a Local Wildlife Site known for diverse bird species and potential osprey sightings. Grimwith Reservoir is a vital stop-off point for migrating waders, geese, and ducks, supporting year-round bird populations with dedicated nature reserves.
Are there any notable natural features or landmarks near the Pennines lakes?
Absolutely. Near Cow Green Reservoir, you'll find Cauldron Snout, one of England's longest waterfalls. The Pennines themselves are characterized by wild moors, remote fells, and green dales. Many reservoirs feature striking dams, and areas like the North Pennines AONB are recognized as dark sky friendly sites, offering fantastic stargazing opportunities.
What is the best time of year to visit the Pennines lakes for hiking?
The Pennines offer beauty year-round, but spring and autumn are often considered ideal for hiking around the lakes. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, though can be busier. Winter walks can be beautiful but require appropriate gear for potentially challenging conditions.
Are there any accessible routes for wheelchairs around the Pennines lakes?
Yes, Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales is particularly inclusive, offering wheelchair-accessible routes and even all-terrain wheelchairs available for borrowing. This makes it an excellent choice for visitors seeking accessible outdoor experiences.
Where can I find good viewpoints overlooking the Pennines lakes?
Many of the Pennines' fells and reservoirs offer impressive vistas. From the dam at Grassholme Reservoir, you can enjoy calm surface views. Scarhouse Reservoir is praised for its stark beauty and breathtaking views. For a broader perspective, viewpoints like Orrest Head offer sublime vistas of the wider Lakeland landscape, which shares similar characteristics with parts of the Pennines.
Can I go fishing in the Pennines lakes and reservoirs?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several Pennines lakes. Cow Green Reservoir is known for excellent wild brown trout fishing. Grassholme Reservoir is also a fantastic spot for fishing. Always check local regulations and permit requirements before you go.
Are there any historical sites or features near the Pennines lakes?
While the Pennines are primarily known for natural beauty, some areas have historical significance. For example, circular walks around Malham Tarn include the ruins of a smelt mill. The region's reservoirs themselves are often significant feats of engineering from the 19th and 20th centuries, playing a vital role in water supply. The Coffin Route is also a historical trail that offers views of lakes.
What makes the Pennines a unique region for lakes and reservoirs?
The Pennines, often called the 'backbone of England,' are unique due to their role as a significant water catchment area. This has led to numerous impressive reservoirs alongside natural lakes, set against a dramatic backdrop of wild moors, remote fells, and green dales. This combination creates a distinctive landscape for outdoor activities and tranquil scenery, distinct from other lake regions.
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Still not found your perfect lake in the Pennines Mountains? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
