Ed
21 February 2018
Thirlmere was once two small lakes, Leatherswater and Brackmere. In 1879 work began on building a dam at the northern end, raising the water level by some 54 feet, resulting in a single lake measuring three and a half miles long, half a mile wide and 160 feet deep - consigning the hamlets of Armboth and Wythburn to the deep forever.
The water lies just beyond Dunmail Raise, north from Grasmere heading towards Keswick, and is owned by North West Water. It is open to the public and there are parking laybys along the western shore, giving access to some pleasant woodland walks and lakeside footpaths maintained by the British Conservation Society.
Walking and fishing
Fishing is allowed on the water and is free if you have a rod license. The best fishing is for perch, trout and pike. One of the best viewpoints is from Hause Point on the west and on the western edge of Thirlmere, a path leads to Raven Crag, another popular beauty spot. The lake is very quiet and crystal clear, it can be reached without having to negotiate winding passes too. The remote waters of Thirlmere are perfect for a day of lakeside exploration, excellent vistas and absolutely ideal for family picnics.
We have some lovely cottages in and around Thirlmere. Please feel free have a fish around our collection or a snoop at our catch of the day below.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.