Best lakes around Lowick are found within the Lake District National Park, a region known for its natural beauty and diverse water bodies. Lowick, a village in South Lakeland, Cumbria, provides access to several renowned lakes and tarns. The area's topography offers opportunities for outdoor activities like walking and exploring nature. These water features contribute to the region's appeal for visitors seeking natural landscapes.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Lowick.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tree lined lane with great views at times, be aware the road surface isn't the best and in tourist season especially at weekends it can be busy with vehicles and some dodgy parking!
0
0
Banishead Quarry is a rarely publicised beauty spot in the Lake District that is hidden away on the eastern flanks of the Old Man of Coniston. It is a super beautiful location and even has its own waterfall and an 80 foot (24 m) at that. It is a very popular wild swimming spot in the summer months. The waterfall was apparently born out of mischief when three local boys had a flash of inspiration to play ‘Let's divert the river with rocks’ back in the 1950’s. Their efforts obviously worked! If you do stop here, be aware of the dangers of wild swimming and jumping from high ledges at an unknown location.
2
0
Bannishead Quarry and tarn is a real hidden gem. You don’t see it until you are right next to it and most of the tourists heading up Coniston Old Man don’t come this way so you are likely to have it to yourself. A beautiful quarry lake made more spectacular by the waterfall.
2
0
The Cumbria Way passes by the side of Beacon Tarn. It is a lovely tranquil spot especially on a warm sunny day.
1
0
Popular with day trippers getting the ferry
0
0
Very busy in the warmer months. Car parking is an issue so expect the roads to be littered with cars parked on the verges.
0
0
Be careful of ticks here! My dog got absolutely covered in ticks at this Tarn. Have since removed 10 from his skin. We stopped here for less than 3 minutes and could see them crawling over him :( honestly never seen anything like it.
0
0
The area around Lowick, within the Lake District National Park, offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Coniston Water, known for its tranquil beauty and views of the Old Man of Coniston. Another unique spot is Banishead Quarry Waterfall, featuring an impressive 80-foot waterfall and a captivating quarry lake. For a peaceful retreat, explore Beacon Tarn, a tranquil spot nestled in an upland landscape, or Bigland Tarn, which offers views towards the Coniston Fells.
Yes, there are popular spots for wild swimming. Banishead Quarry Waterfall, with its quarry lake and dramatic waterfall, is a very popular spot during summer months. Beacon Tarn also has a reputation as a wild swimming spot, especially on warmer days. Always be aware of the inherent dangers of wild swimming, such as cold water shock and hidden obstacles.
You'll find a variety of walking trails. The Cumbria Way follows the western shore of Coniston Water for 4km, offering tranquil views. The Cumbria Way also passes by Beacon Tarn. For easy hikes, consider routes like the 'Beacon Tarn – Beacon Tarn loop from Blawith and Subberthwaite' or the 'Roundsea Wood Nature Reserve – Roundsea Wood and Moss loop from Egton with Newland'. You can find more details on these and other easy hikes at Easy hikes around Lowick.
Yes, Coniston Water is considered family-friendly, with paths around the water's edge and little beaches perfect for relaxing. The Coniston Launch ferry also operates on the lake, offering a pleasant way to see the sights. Many of the easy walks around the tarns, such as Beacon Tarn, are also suitable for families looking for a peaceful outing.
Many areas in the Lake District are dog-friendly, and Bigland Tarn is specifically noted as dog-friendly. When walking with dogs, always keep them under control, especially near livestock, and be mindful of wildlife. It's also advisable to check for ticks, particularly in grassy or wooded areas.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy mountain biking on trails like the 'View of Grizedale Forest – Grizedale Tarn loop from Lowick' or 'Green Moor Descent – View of Coniston Water loop from Lowick'. For gravel biking, explore routes such as the 'Elterwater Cycling Routes – Elterwater Cycle Path loop from Satterthwaite'. More information on these activities can be found at MTB Trails around Lowick and Gravel biking around Lowick.
The Lake District is beautiful year-round, but warm, sunny days are particularly lovely for enjoying the lakes and tarns. Summer months are popular for activities like wild swimming at spots like Banishead Quarry Waterfall and Beacon Tarn. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and fewer crowds, while winter provides a serene, often dramatic landscape, though some paths may be more challenging.
Yes, Coniston Water has notable historical connections. John Ruskin, a famous English art critic, lived on its banks and considered the view of the Old Man of Coniston from across the lake to be among the finest. Arthur Ransome also based his 'Swallows and Amazons' stories here, with one of its three islands potentially being the fictional Wild Cat Island.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Many enjoy walking along the shores of Coniston Water, finding secluded spots for relaxation. The unique experience of wild swimming at Banishead Quarry Waterfall is also a highlight for many. The serene setting of Beacon Tarn is often praised as a lovely spot for contemplation and picnics.
While Lowick itself is a peaceful village, the wider area around the lakes offers options. For example, after visiting Banishead Quarry Waterfall, you can find The Wilson's Arms nearby in Torver. It's always a good idea to check local listings for current opening times and locations of pubs and cafes in the villages surrounding the lakes.
The topography around Lowick is characteristic of the Lake District, featuring a mix of dramatic fells, rolling hills, and valleys. The lakes themselves vary in size and depth, from the expansive Coniston Water, nestled beneath the Coniston Fells, to smaller, more secluded tarns like Beacon Tarn, situated within a rugged upland landscape. This varied terrain provides diverse opportunities for exploration and scenic views.


Still not found your perfect lake around Lowick? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.