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Brothers Water

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Mountain, Valley

Swimming

Early Autumn

Photo: Alexander P Kapp via Geograph.org.uk

Brothers Water is one of the smallest lakes in the Lake District, a shallow, reed-fringed sheet of water lying in the Hartsop valley below the Kirkstone Pass, near Patterdale. On a still day it holds perfect reflections of the fells that rise steeply around it, and its wooded western shore has an ea...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

6 day, 4 overnight

The Brotherswater Inn – Hartsop, The White Lion Inn – Patterdale, The Patterdale Hotel Bar – Patterdale

Crossgate Luxury Glamping, Bellfoot Rural Retreat

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Brothers Water?
Cumbria welcomes you to this part of the eastern Lake District, specifically inside the Hartsop and Dovedale valleys. Hikers often pass by while exploring the nearby fells and paths.

What type of place is Brothers Water?
Brothers Water is a small lake in the eastern region of the Lake District in England.

When is the best time to visit Brothers Water?
Early autumn offers the best experience because the morning mist rising from the water surface looks spectacular against the changing leaves. Summer also works well if you want slightly warmer water temperatures for swimming.

What can you do at Brothers Water?
Swimming provides a brilliant way to experience the clean water and enjoy the mountain reflections. Many people also like walking along the wooded shoreline path to spot wild birds.

How long should I spend at Brothers Water?
A couple of hours gives you plenty of time for a quick dip and a lakeside stroll. Anyone planning a full hike up the surrounding fells should allocate a whole day instead.

Where do I park at Brothers Water?
Vehicles can use the ten spaces available near the lake, which include six day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Brothers Water?
The Brotherswater Inn in Hartsop, The White Lion Inn in Patterdale, and The Patterdale Hotel Bar in Patterdale offer three spots to grab a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Brothers Water?
Crossgate Luxury Glamping and Bellfoot Rural Retreat provide two places to spend the night in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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