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Wastwater Lake

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Mountain, Valley

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Picnicking

Spring to Autumn

BigglesBear / CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Wast Water is the deepest lake in England, a long glacial ribbon of water in remote Wasdale in the western Lake District. Its southeastern side is walled by the Wastwater Screes, a slope of shattered rock that plunges around 600 metres and carries on well below the surface, reaching about 79 metres ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

Wasdale Head Inn​, The Sawmill Cafe & Farm Shop, The Screes Inn – Nether Wasdale

Scafell View Apartment

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Wastwater Lake?
Cumbria's wild western edge contains this impressive body of water within a famous valley. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts usually head out past the massive fells to discover its rugged, quiet shoreline.

What type of place is Wastwater Lake?
Wastwater Lake is a deep glacial lake in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria.

When is the best time to visit Wastwater Lake?
Autumn mornings offer a spectacular experience when crisp air creates a layer of rising mist across the glassy surface. Clear spring and summer days also provide excellent conditions for tackling the adjacent mountain trails or wading into the shallows.

What can you do at Wastwater Lake?
Plunging into the chilly mountain water provides an incredible rush for adventurous wild swimmers looking to experience England's deepest lake. People also enjoy walking along the stony banks, taking photos of the volcanic peaks, or setting up a family picnic.

How long should I spend at Wastwater Lake?
Allocating a full afternoon allows ample time to enjoy a proper swim and absorb the massive mountain views. A longer weekend stay works perfectly if you want to climb nearby summits like Scafell Pike.

Where do I park at Wastwater Lake?
Vehicles can use the ten available spaces near the overbridge, providing eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Wastwater Lake?
Wasdale Head Inn, The Sawmill Cafe & Farm Shop, and The Screes Inn – Nether Wasdale represent three wonderful places to find a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Wastwater Lake?
Scafell View Apartment offers a comfortable place to stay in the immediate vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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