Highlight • Viewpoint
The Bowder Stone
Hiking
5.0
(27)
Cycling
5.0
(11)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Bowder Stone is a truly remarkable natural monument and viewpoint nestled within the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, deep in the heart of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. This colossal andesite lava boulder, weighing an estimated 2000 tons and standing approximately 9.1 meters (30 feet) high, is renowned for its seemingly precarious balance on a surprisingly small point of contact. Situated at an elevation of around 180 meters, it offers a unique geological spectacle that has captivated visitors for centuries.
What draws people to this iconic Lake District landmark is its sheer scale and improbable appearance, making it a fascinating natural curiosity. Many visitors particularly enjoy the unique experience of climbing the fixed metal ladder to the top, which provides a "treetop style perspective" over the surrounding woodland and the scenic Borrowdale valley. It offers a gentle mini-adventure and a small walk with a big reward, appealing to a wide range of explorers.
Before you go, it's good to know that access to the Bowder Stone is typically a short, gentle walk from the National Trust car park, conveniently located on the B5289 Keswick to Borrowdale Road. While the walk itself is not challenging, those planning to ascend the ladder to the top should be comfortable with heights. As with any visit to the Lake District, dressing in layers and being prepared for changeable weather conditions is always advisable, ensuring a comfortable experience for your Bowder Stone viewpoint walk.
The Bowder Stone is a popular destination year-round, though spring and autumn offer particularly beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. It's an ideal stop for those exploring Borrowdale and Keswick, perfect for walkers, photographers, and families. The area is also popular with rock climbers and bouldering enthusiasts who challenge its smooth sides, while others enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding Great Wood and the many hiking trails around Bowder Stone Keswick.
Visitors often share tales of the stone's enduring mystery, with some suggesting that looking through a hollow beneath it might reveal hidden treasures or unlock ancient secrets. Others simply marvel at its immense size and the improbable way it rests, a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped the Lake District. The unique vantage point from the top of the stone provides a memorable moment, offering views that stretch across the valley.
Whether you're seeking a short, family-friendly walk or looking to incorporate this natural wonder into a longer adventure, there are numerous popular trails and routes near Bowder Stone viewpoint. You can discover a variety of options, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, using komoot to plan your perfect day out. Explore circular walks that take in nearby landmarks like Lodore Falls, Watendlath, or Grange Fell, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Borrowdale.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
November 1, 2023
Hiking
May 16, 2024
Hiking
Caution: you should not be afraid of heights.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Bowder Stone
4.8
(11)
75
hikers
9.57km
03:04
350m
350m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(1)
40
hikers
8.29km
03:00
400m
400m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
40
hikers
1.19km
00:19
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 180 m
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Wednesday 1 July
17°C
11°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 31.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best circular walks that include The Bowder Stone?
Many hikers enjoy circular routes that incorporate The Bowder Stone. Popular options often combine the stone with other local landmarks such as Lodore Falls, Watendlath, or Grange Fell. These walks vary in length and difficulty, offering diverse experiences from gentle strolls through Great Wood to more challenging hikes with significant elevation changes. You can find detailed route suggestions for these circular walks on komoot.
Is there an entry fee or permit required to visit The Bowder Stone?
No, there is no entry fee or permit required to visit The Bowder Stone itself. It is managed by the National Trust and is freely accessible to the public. However, there is a charge for parking at the nearby National Trust car park.
What accommodation options are available near The Bowder Stone?
The Bowder Stone is located in Borrowdale, a popular area in the Lake District. You'll find a range of accommodation nearby, including guesthouses, B&Bs, and hotels in villages like Grange, Rosthwaite, and the larger town of Keswick. There are also campsites and self-catering cottages available for those preferring a more independent stay.
How crowded does The Bowder Stone get, and what's the best time to avoid crowds?
The Bowder Stone is a popular attraction, especially during peak season (summer) and on weekends. To avoid the largest crowds, it's advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Spring and autumn also offer beautiful scenery with generally fewer visitors than summer, and the weather can still be very pleasant.
What is the typical difficulty and elevation gain for walks to The Bowder Stone?
The walk directly from the National Trust car park to The Bowder Stone is generally considered easy and gentle, with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most visitors. However, if you extend your walk to include surrounding fells like Grange Fell or Kings How, the difficulty and elevation gain will increase significantly, offering more challenging hiking experiences.
Is The Bowder Stone viewpoint accessible for families with young children?
Yes, the walk to The Bowder Stone from the main car park is very family-friendly. It's a short, gentle path suitable for young children. The stone itself is a fascinating natural wonder that often captivates kids, and climbing the ladder to the top can be a fun mini-adventure for those who are comfortable with heights.
Are dogs allowed on walks to The Bowder Stone and in the surrounding area?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on leads on the paths to The Bowder Stone and throughout the surrounding Borrowdale area. It's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around livestock, and remember to clean up after them to preserve the natural beauty of the Lake District.
Is The Bowder Stone wheelchair accessible?
The path from the National Trust car park to The Bowder Stone is a well-maintained, relatively flat track. While it's generally considered accessible for pushchairs, it may present some challenges for certain types of wheelchairs due to uneven surfaces in places. It's best to check current conditions or consider a robust all-terrain wheelchair for the most comfortable experience.
What should I wear for a visit to The Bowder Stone, considering Lake District weather?
The Lake District weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is always recommended. Even for a short walk to The Bowder Stone, waterproof outer layers are advisable, along with comfortable walking shoes or boots. In colder months, hats, gloves, and warmer layers are essential. Always be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
Are there cafes or pubs near The Bowder Stone for refreshments?
While there isn't a cafe directly at The Bowder Stone, you'll find options for refreshments in the nearby villages. Grange-in-Borrowdale has a cafe, and Rosthwaite offers a pub and tearoom. The larger town of Keswick, a short drive away, has a wide selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
What other viewpoints are worth visiting near The Bowder Stone?
The Borrowdale Valley is rich with stunning viewpoints. Nearby, you can ascend Kings How for panoramic views of the valley, or explore the trails around Grange Fell. Castle Crag, another iconic fell, offers a different perspective and a sense of historical significance. Each provides a unique vista of the Lake District landscape.
What is the geological history of The Bowder Stone?
The Bowder Stone is a colossal andesite lava boulder, estimated to weigh around 2000 tons. It originated from Bowder Crag on Kings How, falling approximately 200 meters (660 feet) between 13,500 and 10,000 years ago. This massive rockfall event is believed to have occurred as glaciers retreated from Borrowdale, leaving the stone in its remarkably balanced position.