24/02/25 - Tarn Hows

Saving the best till last

A week of varied walking comes to an end. We have had mountains, caves, beaches and valleys. 

Today, we need a pub lunch to steel ourselves for the long drive home in the dark. Hasty re-planning to take us to the plenty of choice Coniston.

I find a route on Komoot. No upvotes, no reviews but its an absolute beaut. Might have something to do with it being the first day of spring.

Start off at my second secret parking spot and work our way to the North Shore.

Photo tells where we are

A lovely climb through Hill Fell (surely one of those word is superfluous) and then we emerge, unexpectedly for me who hasn't studied the map, at Tarn Hows. Mrs M refuses to believe it is man made, not least because the last thing they need up here is another big lake.

Tarn Hows is a picturesque lake in the Lake District, England, known for its serene beauty and stunning views of the surrounding fells. Despite its natural appearance, it is a man-made tarn, created in the 19th century by damming and merging three smaller tarns—Low Tarn, Middle Tarn, and High Tarn—by James Marshall, who owned the land at the time. Later, it became part of the estate of Beatrix Potter, who played a role in preserving the area before it was passed to the National Trust. Today, Tarn Hows is a popular walking destination, offering a scenic circular route and a tranquil escape into nature.

Simply gorgeous and instantly recognisable to the owners of the dog that we will return to them (and their house) this afternonn.

Approaching Tarn Hows

We're going to miss Ruby - a fine walking companion

The route back to civilisation is rather special too - the Cumbria Way jumping straight to the top of Long Distance Paths that need to be tackled.

Mondays can always be like this

I believe that there are four pubs in Coniston. The Crown looks like it has been scrubbed up and expanded. The Yewdale hotel was a former CAMRA  regional pub of the year. I wonder if the interesting landlord of the Sun is still drinking more than his customers and messing about with local politics.

Yet there can only be one winner. Mrs M asks if I need another photo of the Black Bull.

I'm not sure when I will be back here - but I almost certainly will.

2nd visit this week

Walk Details

Distance - 5.5 Miles

Geocaches - 3 and two ALC

Walk Inspiration - Komoot