Top 5 Lakes around Whinfell
Lakes around Whinfell offer a variety of natural and man-made water features, from the recreational lake within Center Parcs Whinfell Forest to tranquil tarns in the surrounding Cumbrian landscape. The area provides access to picturesque spots suitable for walking, watersports, and nature observation. Whinfell is primarily known for its forest environment, serving as a gateway to the wider Lake District region.
Best lakes around Whinfell
- The most popular lakes is Gurnal Dubs Tarn, a lake that is an artificial…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Sizergh Castle and Gardens
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Gurnal Dubs Tarn
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Potter Tarn
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Ghyll Pool
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Road Past Sunbiggin Tarn with Views of the Howgills
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Tips from the Community
I’ve walked routes past here in all different weather over the years, it’s steep going up from the Bowston end but not too bad via the Longsleddale Road end. Going down from the tarn takes a winding route that either passes Craggy Woods or passes a small farm shop that links to footpaths down to Staveley.
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A small collection of water that runs from Potter Tarn and Gurnal Dubs, before making it's way down to the River Kent. The pond is brimming with fish and is home to a few ducks.
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It is well worth visiting the castle and gardens. I was particularly impressed by the rock garden.
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Sizergh as a number of different gardens including a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous border, working kitchen garden, apple orchard and limestone rock garden.
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Good cafe to grab a tea, coffee and cakes. Good facilities. It is managed by the National Trust. And has a good shop to buy presents for family and friends.
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Lovely castle to visit. I enjoyed the gardens more than the interior
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Whinfell?
Whinfell offers a mix of natural and man-made water features. You'll find recreational lakes like the one at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, artificial tarns such as Gurnal Dubs Tarn, reservoirs like Potter Tarn, and even a distinctive mirror lake within the gardens of Sizergh Castle and Gardens.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Whinfell?
Yes, Gurnal Dubs Tarn is a popular spot for wild swimming, especially in summer. It's known for being a refreshing dip and is a favorite among locals.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes around Whinfell?
You can visit Sizergh Castle and Gardens, a National Trust property featuring a medieval fortified manor house and extensive gardens, including a mirror lake. The castle houses an amazing collection of objects from 30 generations of the Strickland family.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Whinfell?
The lake at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest is very family-friendly, offering activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and pedalo hire. Potter Tarn is also noted as family-friendly, and Ghyll Pool, a small collection of water, is home to fish and ducks, making it an interesting spot for children.
What kind of walking routes can I find near the lakes?
You'll find various walking routes, from easy access trails around Potter Tarn to scenic approaches to Gurnal Dubs Tarn with views across Kendal. For more options, explore the hiking routes in the area, such as the 'Thirlmere Aqueduct Bridge loop from Skelsmergh and Scalthwaiterigg' which is an easy 4.2 km hike. You can find more hiking trails at Hiking around Whinfell.
Are there any lakes with notable views?
Yes, Gurnal Dubs Tarn offers superb views across nearby Kendal on the walk in. Potter Tarn also provides views down into Kendal. Additionally, the road past Sunbiggin Tarn offers excellent views south to the Howgills.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, are available near Whinfell's lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy mountain biking and gravel biking. There are various routes available, such as the 'Roundthwaite, Whinash and Dennison loop' for mountain biking or the 'Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal' for gravel biking. Discover more options at MTB Trails around Whinfell and Gravel biking around Whinfell.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Whinfell?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Summer is ideal for activities like wild swimming at Gurnal Dubs Tarn and watersports at Center Parcs. However, the scenic walks and historical sites like Sizergh Castle and Gardens can be enjoyed in all seasons, with autumn offering particularly vibrant colors.
Are there any hidden gem lakes or lesser-known spots?
While not entirely hidden, Ghyll Pool is a smaller, charming collection of water that runs from Potter Tarn and Gurnal Dubs, brimming with fish and home to ducks, offering a tranquil spot away from larger crowds.
Where can I find dining options near the lakes?
At Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, several cafes and restaurants, including Starbucks, Pancake House, and the Lakeside Inn, are situated by the lake, offering dining with views. Sizergh Castle and Gardens also has an onsite cafe and shop.
What makes the lake at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest unique?
The lake at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest is a central feature of the resort, surrounded by mature pine woodland. It's unique for its wide array of watersports activities, scenic walking paths, and convenient dining options right by the water, all within a car-light, family-oriented village setting. For more information, you can visit Visit Lake District or Visit Cumbria.
Is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5290273" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Potter Tarn</a> suitable for swimming?
No, Potter Tarn is a reservoir and is not recommended for swimming. It is, however, a great spot for walks and offers views down into Kendal.
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