The Lake District National Park, England's largest and perhaps most popular national park, attracts more than 15 million visitors each year. While iconic locations like Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere are undoubtedly magnificent, their popularity means they can become crowded, especially during peak seasons. For those seeking tranquility and an authentic connection with the region's raw beauty, we've compiled our favorite hidden gems of the Lake District that most tourists miss.

Ennerdale Water: The Wildest Lake

Tucked away in the western part of the Lake District, Ennerdale Water is the most remote of all the lakes and one of the few without a road running alongside it. This isolation has allowed it to retain a pristine, wild character. The Ennerdale Valley is part of an ambitious rewilding project called "Wild Ennerdale," making it a haven for diverse wildlife. A walk around the entire lake takes about three hours and offers some of the most dramatic and unspoiled landscapes in the region without the crowds you'd find at more accessible lakes.

Devoke Water: The Hidden Tarn

Technically not one of the official Lake District lakes but a tarn (a small mountain lake), Devoke Water sits on the fells above Eskdale. Accessible only by a short hike across moorland, this remote body of water is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery with rarely another visitor in sight. The ruins of a boathouse on its shore add to its mystical appeal, and fly fishermen occasionally come here for the brown trout. The view of the Scafell range from here is truly spectacular and offers photographers a unique vantage point rarely captured in typical Lake District imagery.

The Howk: Caldbeck's Secret Gorge

Just outside the charming village of Caldbeck in the far northern Lake District lies The Howk, a limestone gorge carved by the River Caldew. A short walk from the village leads to this hidden ravine where you'll discover the ruins of an old bobbin mill powered by a spectacular waterfall. The moss-covered rocks and dappled light through the trees create an enchanted atmosphere that feels worlds away from the more trodden paths of the national park. It's particularly magical in autumn when the fall colors reflect in the crystal-clear waters.

Blea Tarn: Perfect Reflections

While not entirely unknown, Blea Tarn is still overlooked by many visitors. Located between Great Langdale and Little Langdale, this small tarn offers one of the most breathtaking views in the Lake District when the water is still and the Langdale Pikes are perfectly reflected on its surface. A short, easy walk around the tarn takes less than an hour, but the views are worth lingering over. Early morning visits are rewarded with misty scenes and the best chance for those mirror-like reflections before the day's breeze ripples the water.

Loughrigg Fell: The Accessible Summit with Panoramic Views

At just 335 meters high, Loughrigg Fell is one of the more accessible summits in the Lake District, yet many visitors to nearby Ambleside and Grasmere never make the climb. Those who do are rewarded with arguably one of the best panoramic views in the entire national park, overlooking Grasmere, Rydal Water, Windermere, and the Langdale Pikes. Unlike the more famous fells which can be crowded with hikers, Loughrigg offers plenty of space to find a private spot for contemplation among its many rocky outcrops and grassy terraces.

The Duddon Valley: Wordsworth's Favorite

The Duddon Valley, or Dunnerdale, remains astonishingly quiet despite being celebrated by Wordsworth in a series of sonnets as his favorite valley. The River Duddon winds through ancient woodland, meadows dotted with free-roaming Herdwick sheep, and past the historic Ulpha Bridge. Visit the ancient Swinside Stone Circle (locally known as "Sunkenkirk"), a perfect circle of 55 stones dating back to the Bronze Age and considered one of the finest stone circles in Britain. Despite its archaeological significance, you'll likely have this atmospheric site all to yourself.

Traveling to These Hidden Gems

Many of these locations are best accessed by car due to their remote nature, though some limited public transport options are available. We recommend staying in one of the lesser-visited areas like Eskdale, Wasdale, or Ennerdale as a base for exploring these hidden corners. Pack appropriate footwear even for shorter walks, as paths can be rough and weather conditions change rapidly in the Lake District.

At Originalinaya Lipa, we specialize in crafting tailored Lake District itineraries that balance the must-see highlights with these secret spots, allowing you to experience the true essence of this breathtaking national park without the crowds. Our local guides know exactly when and how to visit these hidden gems for the optimal experience, whether you're seeking photography opportunities, peaceful contemplation, or active adventure.