What’s not to love about the Lake District? 🌿
Packed with stunning scenery, charming towns, and endless hiking trails, we recently explored the breathtaking Tarn Hows.
Tarn Hows Walk, Views, Lake District
With its sparkling clear waters framed by classic Lakeland countryside, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular walks in the region! The main route circles the tarn in about 2 miles, but you can easily extend your trek, making it perfect for walkers of all levels.
Did you know? The Monk Coniston Estate, home to Tarn Hows, was once owned by Beatrix Potter and later entrusted to the National Trust.
To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together this ultimate guide so you’ll be fully ready for an unforgettable day out!
Where is Tarn Hows?
Tarn Hows Car Park Address: Ambleside LA22 0PP 🚗
Tarn Hows sits perfectly between the charming villages of Hawkshead and Coniston, just off the B5285 road.
It’s only about a 1.9-mile drive from Hawkshead and 3.4 miles from Coniston, meaning you can reach the car park from either village in under 10 minutes.
Best Tarn Hows walks
Standard Tarn Hows Circular
If you’re after a relaxed but scenic stroll, the standard Tarn Hows Circular walk is perfect 🌸
This easy 2-mile loop hugs the sparkling waters, offering stunning views at every turn. For a bit more adventure, take the optional uphill path to the east and enjoy even more breathtaking vistas from above.
Kids will love spotting the mysterious wishing tree along the way, covered with coins from those who’ve made a wish. Don’t forget to bring a few coppers yourself!
No need for a detailed step-by-step guide here – the path around Tarn Hows is clear, easy to follow, and even wheelchair-friendly ♿
Just start from the Tarn Hows Car Park, follow the signs, and you’re all set for a beautiful walk!
Circular Trail From Monk Coniston
Monk Coniston Car Park: Coniston LA21 8AA
For experienced walkers craving a bit more adventure, the circular trail from Monk Coniston is a perfect pick 🌲
This 7-mile route winds through rolling woodlands, open fell land, and circles the famous tarn. Most hikers can finish it in 2 to 3 hours.
It’s not overly tough, but if you’re not used to longer walks, the hilly sections might leave you a little breathless – though the stunning views along the way make every step worthwhile!
Circular Trail from Monk Coniston
From Monk Coniston Car Park, look for the signpost marked Monk Coniston right across the road.
Go through the gate and follow the trail up the gentle slope.
Stay on the footpath until you reach a road crossing. Make sure the road is clear before crossing, then continue up into the hilly woodland.
Make sure to stay on the main path and avoid any side trails.
When you reach the road at the top of the hill, Tarn Hows will come into view straight ahead.
Go through the gate to the right of the road near the picnic benches. Follow the trail to enjoy elevated views of the tarn before descending onto the standard circular walk around it.
After completing the Tarn loop, take the uphill path past Tarn Hows Car Park, then follow the one-way exit road toward Coniston.
Follow this path briefly, then take the first footpath on your right toward Tarn Hows Cottage.
Just before the cottage, turn onto the first footpath on the left, which heads down toward Boon Crag Farm.
At the bottom of the hill, turn left, pass the farm, then turn right onto the road and follow the footpath back to Coniston Water.
Monk Coniston Boat Ride
Alternatively, you can start the trail from Monk Coniston Car Park, or take a ride on the historic steam boat from Coniston Pier to Monk Coniston 🚤
This impressive 84-foot Victorian steam-powered boat, restored by the National Trust in 1980, offers a spectacular way to enjoy the stunning lakeshore views!
Coniston to Ambleside (via Tarn Hows)
For seasoned hikers, why not take on the 8.5-mile one-way trek from Coniston to Ambleside? 🥾
This route follows part of the famous Cumbrian Way, passing Tarn Hows and Loughrigg Tarn before reaching the picturesque village of Ambleside.
Ambleside sits just north of Lake Windermere and is a perfect spot for wild swimming – a refreshing way to reward yourself after the hike!
I haven’t walked this trail myself, so for a full breakdown, check out the detailed guide by Where2Walk.
Is there a waterfall at Tarn Hows?
If you want to see a nearby waterfall while visiting Tarn Hows, start your walk from Tom Gill 🌊
This short but steep 1.6-mile climb treats you to stunning cascading waterfalls as you make your way toward the tarn, giving your legs a real workout!
For a complete guide on this route, check out the official National Trust guide.
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