Burnmoor Tarn

Burnmoor Tarn's waters are viewed on a six-mile walk connecting the villages of Eskdale Green and Boot. The first section heads up Miterdale. Along the way are Forestry Commission plantations of conifers and native oakwoods. At the right time of year walkers can spot woodland flowers.

The river Mite is a companion on this part of the journey, and eventually a footbridge crosses it. Here the trees end, and prehistoric stone circles are encountered on the stony ground at Low Longrigg. Views are north to Illgill Head and Whin Rigg.

The walk heads between Tongue Moor and Eskdale Moor and unfolds into cliffs, waterfalls, and green spots before reaching Burnmoor Tarn. Scafell, Slight Side, and Crinkle Crags come into sight.

Heading back towards Boot, the path follows Whillan Beck and follows part of Wasdale's old corpse road used to carry coffins to St Catherine's Church in Boot. Parts of the area are boggy.

Burnmoor Tarn, one of the largest tarns in the Lake District, is itself of no particular charm, but the journey there and back hold views worth going for.

Burnmoor Tarn
Eskdale Green and Boot are on a minor road. From A595 Ravenglass, take turnoff at Gubbergill.

Note: detailed walk maps are necessary as a number of paths branch off this route.

Photos courtesy of Ann Bowker

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