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LANGDALE

Langdale is found right at the centre of the Lake District and is split into two valleys, Great Langdale and Little Langdale. Langdale takes its name from the Old Norse term used for ‘long valley’. 

Langdale is home to several fells, including Bowell and Crinkle Crags at its head before meeting with Grasmere, Rydal and Ambleside valley to the north end of Windermere. 

The earliest permanent human settlement was predicted to be in the Bronze Age, though human presence can be traced back to the Neolithic times, where there was a productive stone axe industry.  

 

During the Roman’s reign a road spanning through Little Langdale from the fort at Ambleside to the one at Hardknott Pass was built. 

The area is still an important valley for Herdwick sheep breeding and around half of the high grazing is used for this local breed. 

The Langdale valleys are a favourite choice for many rock climbers. William Wordsworth aided its popularity by writing about Blea Tarn — found in the hanging valley between Little and Great Langdale to the north — in his poem ‘The Excursion’. He also referred to it in another text as a ‘must visit’ valley.

One of the most famed features of the U-shaped glacial valley Great Langdale is the cluster of peaks on the northern aspect called the Langdale Pikes. Scafell Pike can also be climbed via a route from Langdale and Dungeon Ghyll is a ravine on the north side of the valley, starting on the slopes between Harrison Stickle and Loft Crag. There are two villages — Chapel Stile and Elterwater — in the valley as well a small hamlet at High Close. 

Great Langdale was once a centre of the Lakeland slate industry. 

In contrast, Little Langdale is defined as a hanging valley and has a hamlet of the same name. It has a few stone houses and a pub as well as two tarns, Little Langdale tarn and Blea tarn. Little Langdale is flanked on the south by Swirl How and Wetherlam. The valley has been subject to extensive mining over the last few hundred years, particularly for copper and slate, though there has been little activity recently. 

Little Langdale was home to the 19th century smuggler Lanty Slee, who built Greenbank Farm in the valley in 1840. 

Other buildings of interest include the 17th century Grade II listed National Trust protected Fell Foot Farm and High Hallgarth, a 17th century cottage which overlooks Little Langdale tarn. 

 

 Things to do in Langdale…

Langdale is renowned for its natural beauty, quaint little cottages and iconic Langdale pikes. It’s not hard to lose track of time here, so here are the top things to do and places to visit in Langdale you don’t want to miss out on…

  • Cathedral Cavern 

Situated in Little Langdale within woodland near the Three Shires Inn pub, Cathedral Cavern is an impressive cave popular with climbers. Walkers can also enjoy the cave if prepared for rugged terrain and scattered slate-mining debris on the paths. 

  • Skelwith Bridge

The river trail between Skelwith Bridge and Elterwater is perfect for a day out hiking. A shorter, idyllic walk from the bridge to Skelwith Force is equally enjoyable and beautiful. The Skelwith Bridge café is a great spot for a lunch stop before or after your hike, serving an extraordinary variety of cakes! 

  • Cycling and mountain biking

The meandering nature of the Langdale valleys makes them a popular spot for cyclists and mountain bikers.  To explore the valleys and mountains on wheels, you can hire bikes from the National Trust Campsite in Great Langdale. 

  • Mountain walking

Langdale is surrounded by popular fells including the iconic Langdale Pikes; Pavey Ark, Loft Crag, Pike of Stickle and Harrison Stickle. Why not tick off four Wainwrights on your visit to Langdale? This superb walk can start from New Dungeon Ghyll and is around 8 miles. 

  • Wild Swimming

There are plenty places for a wild swim near Langdale both lowland in lakes and high up in tarns. Popular nearby swimming spots include Stickle Tarn, Elterwater, Blea Tarn and Rydal Water. 

  • Ghyll Scrambling

If you’re craving a bit of adventure, Langdale can provide this with the surrounding gorges, ghylls and rockpools creating the perfect place for a bit of ghyll scrambling and diving. Stickle Ghyll is a popular place for this with activities ran by expert guides from companies such as Path to Adventure. The adventure company provide scrambling days for families with young children aged 4+, extreme ghyll jumping for adrenaline junkies and ghyll scrambling and swimming. 

  • Fishing

There are a number of places to enjoy a fishing trip in Langdale, including Blea Tarn, and Loughrigg Tarn. It is important to research local fishing regulations before you set off and to acquire a rod license which are available from post offices or online. Loughrigg Tarn is a popular, all year-round fishing spot for catching roach, pike, perch and eels; you can buy a permit from Tarn End Farm. 

 Six Walks to do from Langdale…

It’s easy to see why Langdale is popular amongst hikers; its craggy fell-tops provide exciting mountain days alongside its remote, river running valleys offering picturesque lowland walks too. Here is a mixture of both beautiful lowland valley walks and more challenging, epic mountain days to enjoy from Langdale. 


  • Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge: 

Distance: 4km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy 

This is an easy, picturesque little walk along the riverside between Elterwater and Skelwith Bridge. The track is easy to follow and well maintained and offers fabulous views over to the Langdale Pikes. 

  • Great & Little Langdale Circular Walk 

Distance: 15km Time: 5 hours Difficulty: Medium 

If the mountains are looking a little cloudy, this lowland walk through the Langdale valley is a great alternative to still get the miles in without the ascent. The walk starts at the National Trust Stickle Ghyll car park and covers sections of the Cumbrian Way, explores Blea Tarn and offers beautiful views of the Langdale fells throughout. 


  • Chapel Stile and Great Langdale loop 

Distance: 5km Time: 1.5 hours Difficulty: Easy 

This simple, lowland loop from Chapel Stile is ideal for a chilled out day with the family, offering mountain views whilst strolling alongside glistening streams.  Starting from Chapel Stile, the walk takes the Cumbrian Way along the Great Langdale Beck, crossing the valley and completing the circuit through Baysbrown Wood back to Chapel Stile. 


  • Scafell Pike from Langdale 

Distance: 22km Time: 7 hours Difficulty: Hard 

The most challenging yet epic walk on the list, climbing Scafell Pike from Langdale is a less popular route to the highest point in England making it a way to escape the crowds. The route ends at the Old Dungeon Ghyll pub for a well-deserved pint. 


  • Langdale Pikes 

Distance: 12km Time: 5 hours Difficulty: Medium 

A visit to Langdale is never complete without tackling the areas famous Langdale Pikes. From the valley, they’re impossible to miss with their craggy tops dominating the skyline. Consisting of four Wainwrights, Pavey Ark, Loft Crag, Pike of Stickle and Harrison Stickle, the walk starts from New Dungeon Ghyll and is a spectacular day in the mountains. 


  • Bowfell via Three Tarns 

Distance: 20km Time: 7 hours Difficulty: Medium 

Hiking Bowfell from Great Langdale is likely the most popular way to the pyramid-shaped top Wainwright. This classic circular route starts at Old Dungeon Ghyll and explores Bowfell, Esk Pike, Allen Crags and Rossett Pike also visiting Three Tarns located between Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

 Best Wild Swim Spots in Langdale

Langdale is home to a number of inviting tarns, lakes and rivers to enjoy a swim, both in winter and summer! Wild swimming can be fun and invigorating, but it is important to stay safe and research the water before you dive in. Wearing a wetsuit if you’re planning on a winter swim will help keep you warm.

Here are some of the best spots in and around Langdale to go for a dip… 

  • Blea Tarn 

One of the most popular wild swimming spots in the area, Blea Tarn is a picture perfect tarn reflecting views of Harrison Stickle and Pike of Stickle. It is easily accessible situated at the top of the pass going over to Great Langdale. If you fancy a walk and swim, you can reach the tarn via a walk across the top of Lingmoor Fell. 

  • Loughrigg Tarn 

Overlooked by a stunning skyline of the Langdale Pikes, Loughrigg Tarn is a perfect swimming spot popular with beginner wild swimmers.  The tarn has no major rivers flowing into it making it a warmer swim option. It is easily reached via a walk or bike ride from The Three Shires Inn pub to Loughrigg fell, or a footpath runs directly below the mountain for direct access to the tarn. 

  • Tongue Pot 

For a truly wild swim in the remote River Esk, Tongue Pot is the perfect spot for adventurous swimmers who like exploring rock pools and diving from high places. From Langdale, head back out of the valley and over Wrynose Pass and Hardknott Pass (also a wild drive!) to Eskdale and park at the bottom of Hardknott. A path then leads through Brotherilkeld Farm alongside the River Esk for around two miles. The large lagoon is hard to miss; it is overlooked by a tree and boasts a little waterfall with crystal clear waters. 

  • Rydal Water

A popular spot to meet other wild swimmers, Rydal Water is a peaceful place for an open water swim. Sheltered by surrounding fells, the water is often still, calm and a little warmer than other spots. Rydal Water is not as remote as other wild swimming spots and can be accessed via a short walk from White Moss Car Park. 

  • Holme Fell Lake 

An old reservoir on the route up to Holme Fell, this little lake is an ideal escape for a wild swim. The water is deep enough for a little adventurous jump from the old dam wall, or the still water is equally great for a relaxing swim.  To reach the lake, start from Hodge Close quarry and follow a path leading up through woodlands to old mine ruins, continue on to the lake from here. 

  • Elterwater and Langdale Beck 

Combining a river and tarn swim, Elterwater via Langdale Beck is ideal for wild swimmers who like a bit of variety. The path running alongside Langdale Beck can be reached via a short walk from the disused quarry at Skelwith Bridge. The slow moving river flowing out of Elterwater provides a great little river swim. Once at Elterwater, a tranquil swim in crystal clear waters can be enjoyed in the tarn. 

  • Stickle Tarn

A small tarn sitting below Pavey Ark, Stickle Tarn is ideal for a rugged wild swim, high up amongst the mountains.  The tarn can be accessed via a steep path from the Sticklebarn pub following Stickle Ghyll all the way up the valley. 

 What makes Langdale famous? 

There are many reasons why the Lake District is so famous, but specifically for Langdale, the valley holds a few unique treasures that make it special…

  • Langdale Pikes

Arguably one of the best-known features of Great Langdale are the Langdale Pikes. A group of peaks on the northern side of the dale favoured by Wainwright and climbed by thousands, Pike of Stickle, Loft Crag, Harrison Stickle and Pavey Ark dominate the skyline above Langdale, making themselves memorable in the minds of every visitor to the valley. Wainwright contributed to the fame of the Langdale Pikes through stating, “No mountain profile in Lakeland arrests and excites the attention more than that of the Langdale Pikes,” in his Central Fells pictorial guide in 1958. 

  • Dungeon Ghyll & Stickle Ghyll 

A well-known ravine on the north side of the valley, Dungeon Ghyll inspired the name of Langdale’s popular pubs and hotels Old New Dungeon Ghyll and New Dungeon Ghyll. 

The Old Dungeon Ghyll hotel is over 300 years old and popular amongst traditional climbers and hikers. Famous names in the outdoor industry have stayed and drank here including Sir Chris Bonnington. 

Although Dungeon Ghyll itself is inaccessible to walkers due to its narrow position on the slopes between Harrison Stickle and Loft Crag, Stickle Ghyll, one the most popular becks in the Lake District, and Stickle Tarn are much more open and accessible. Stickle Ghyll inspired the name of the nearby National Trust pub the Sticklebarn. 

  • Historic Slate and Axe Industry

Great Langdale and Elterwater were historically the centre of the Lakeland slate industry. Many quarries in the area are now disused including Lingmoor, Banks, Thrang Crag and Colt Howe. However, Elterwater Quarry and Spout Cragg Quarry are still in use today using modern methods.  Both quarries are now owned and operated by the company Burlingston Stone. 

As well as quarrying slate, the Langdale area is famous in history for its productive stone axe industry during the Neolithic period.  Fine-grained greenstone has been found in the area which was used to make polished axes which have been found distributed across the British Isles. It is believed the greenstone was quarried or collected from the scree slopes in the Langdale Valley on Harrison Stickle and Pike of Stickle. 

When exploring Langdale, remnants of old slate mining are still visible today.

 Hidden Gems to find in Langdale

Langdale is a popular place for tourists, so why not try some of these lesser-known hidden gems… 

  • Dungeon Ghyll Force 

A magnificent 40-foot waterfall flowing from Dungeon Ghyll, this deep ravine was well loved by Victorian poets including Wordsworth, who mentioned the waterfall in his poem ‘The Idle Shepherd- Boys’- “ It was a spot which you may see if ever you to Langdale go; Into a chasm a mighty block Hath fallen, and make a bridge of rock: The gulf is deep below; And, in a basin black and small, receives a lofty waterfall”. 

Dungeon Ghyll Force is accessible from the Stickle Ghyll car park.

  • Jack’s Rake

A less popular route up to Pavey Ark, Jack’s Rake is a steep scramble described by Wainwright as ‘just about the limit’ for a fell-walker. If you’re looking for an adventure to get your heart pumping, this is a good choice! 

  • Wainwrights’ Tarn 

A little hidden spot behind the Wainwrights Inn pub in Chapel Stile, Wainwrights Tarn is a picturesque spot to relax with Great Langdale Beck flowing by. Enjoy a little walk, picnic or summer barbecue beside the tarns reflective shoreline. 

 Things to do in Langdale on a rainy day… 

The Lake District is renowned for its wet weather, with rainy days often being the norm! Although we encourage you not to let the rain put you off, here are some ideas for things to do when heavy rain is really spoiling your outdoor plans… 

  • Spa day 

Langdale and nearby areas offer a few hotels with spa features for those days where you’d rather be watching the rain from a lounger with your feet up in flip-flops instead of muddy hiking boots… 

  • Langdale Hotel- Brimstone Spa

Exclusively for adult guests staying at the Langdale Hotel, the Brimstone Spa is a luxury spa experience offering thermal pools, relaxation pools, spa therapies and indulgent food from the Spa Deli. 

  • Family film day

On specific rainy days, mainly Saturdays or during the school holidays, the National Trust will sometimes showcase a family film at the Sticklebarn. The films are free to watch and board-games are also provided. 

  • Waterfall walks 

If its already raining, getting splashed by a waterfall won’t make much difference, plus waterfalls are often bigger and more impressive when it’s raining… 

  • Stickle Ghyll Falls

A series of waterfalls alongside the footpath following up to Stickle Tarn, Stickle Ghyll Falls are best viewed after rainfall, with the largest cascade best seen from the wooden bridge about a mile up the Ghyll. The falls continue up the valley side falling into a number of rock pools cutting into the mountainside. 

  • Dungeon Ghyll Force 

Dungeon Ghyll Force is an impressive 40 feet drop of water; visiting this waterfall after heavy rain will be even more spectacular. The picturesque site has provided inspiration to Victorian poets including Wordsworth. The path to the waterfall is easily accessible from Stickle Ghyll car park. 


 Top Family Friendly things to do in Langdale 

The Lake District is a great place for families and children, and Langdale is no exception. Here are some of the best things to do in Langdale as a family… 

  • Camping 

Langdale offers a great selection of family friendly campsites with plenty of space for kids to enjoy ball games and a night under the stars… 

  • Great Langdale Campsite, National Trust 

2- night minimum stay, prices start at £20 per pitch and vary in size. 

A relaxed campsite set in the heart of the Great Langdale Valley, this National Trust campsite offers pitches for tents and campervans as well as a collection of wooden camping pods. The site is a 10-minute walk from the Sticklebarn pub, which offers kids meals and has a little outdoor play area.  

  • BaysBrown Farm 

First come first served, £10 per person, per night 

BaysBrown is a casual working sheep farm and family site suitable for both tents and campervans situated in the village of Chapel Stile. The Wainwright Inn pub is a 10-minute walk from the campsite and offers a variety of kid’s meals. 

  • Little walks for little legs

When hiking with kids, you want to choose an easy, accessible walk with lots of exciting features. Here’s a few family walks from Langdale to start with… 

  • Mickleden Walk

A walk in the remote valley of Mickelden, this easy, low level walk follows a stony track to the bottom of two ancient mountain passes. The walk starts at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel (a relaxed pub perfect for muddy boots and messy kids) and takes around two hours. The valley has plenty of spots for picnics and safe, open space for kids to run around. 

  • Skelwith Force walk 

An easy, out and back walk to Skelwith Force is ideal for families. Starting a Elterwater Hostel, a path leads from the car park to the waterfall and is around 3 miles. The path is easy to navigate and leads to a picturesque series of waterfalls; a beautiful feature that can be appreciated by all ages. 

  • Walk to Blea Tarn

Hiking to Blea Tarn is a little walk with big rewards, ending at a beautiful tarn reflecting the surrounding Langdale fells. Its great for families offering an opportunity for a little (supervised) swim and a picnic along the shoreline. The walk starts at the National Trust Blea Tarn car park and follows the footpath for around 2 miles taking about an hour. 

  • National Trust holiday activities 

During the school holidays, there will be extra events taking place in Langdale. The National Trust often host days out and activities at the Sticklebarn with past events including bat walks, craft workshops, movie nights, sleeping under the stars and little walking days. 

Exploring Langdale with dogs


We all love a holiday with our four legged friends, and the Lake District is an ideal place for a getaway with your dogs. Walkies galore, dog-friendly pubs and plenty of places to swim, Langdale is an ideal spot for a dog walkers holiday… 

Please note when adventuring with your dog to be aware of livestock and keep your dogs on leads when passing. 

  • Dog friendly walks 

Dogs love walking as much as we do and Langdale offers some spectacular walks that both owners and dogs will enjoy. These walks all include a lake or tarn for your dog to have a swim, a drink and to cool off on warm days. 

  • Hunting Stile and Low Wood, Elterwater 

A great walk combining woodland paths with tarns and stunning views of the Langdale Valley with easy navigation.  The circular walk starts from the Langdale Estate and explores Elterwater and it’s three tarns. There’s plenty of woodland and greenery for dogs to run around and water to have a swim. 

  • Stickle Tarn 

Starting at the dog friendly Sticklebarn pub, a steep path follows Stickle Ghyll up the side of the valley, with stunning views of waterfalls and rock pools, until you reach Stickle Tarn. This walk is best for dogs that are used to walking on rocky terrain. Your dog can be rewarded with a swim and a treat once you reach the tarn. 

  • Mickleden Valley 

The remote trail to the head of Mickleden is ideal for less sociable dogs that like a lot of space to themselves. The valley is the closest you’ll get to wilderness around Langdale and has lots of green space for your dog to have a run around. The walk is easy, flat terrain making it ideal for dogs who aren’t good climbers. 

  • Dog friendly accommodation in Langdale

No one likes leaving there dog at home when they go away, so finding dog friendly accommodation is always a relief. Luckily, there’s a few options in Langdale… 

  • Pollys Cottage 

For family holidays with the pooches, Pollys Cottage in Elterwater is a quaint little self-catering cottage, which offers three bedrooms with space for two dogs. 

  • Townfoot Cottage

A cosy cottage located in Elterwater, Townfoot Cottage is a two bedroom cottage which welcomes families with two dogs. The cottage has a log burner in the living room making an ideal spot for a cosy dog bed! 

  • The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel 

As well as being a dog friendly pub, The Old Dungeon Ghyll offers pet friendly hotel rooms at an extra charge of £5 per dog, per night, allowing them access to all parts of the hotel, including the dining room.

  • Dog friendly pubs in Langdale

After a long walk, a well-deserved pint and a bowl of water is always a must. Here in Langdale, almost all the pubs are welcoming of muddy boots and paw prints… 

  • The Britannia Inn 

Nestled in the Langdale Valley, the Britannia Inn is a traditional, rustic pub open to both hikers and their dogs. Dogs are welcome inside and out, with the pub offering a spacious outside seating area for larger hounds. 

  • Wainwrights’ Inn 

A cosy, traditional pub located in Chapel Stile, the Wainwrights’ Inn welcomes dogs inside and out, with an outdoor seating area. Water bowls are dotted around outside the pub. 

  • Sticklebarn 

The National Trust owned Sticklebarn pub is a popular place for hikers and their dogs. The pub is extra welcoming to their four legged friends offering dog towels, water bowls and dog treats.

 The best places to eat and drink in Langdale

Langdale may be a small town, but there are plenty of places to grab and bite to eat and drink for both couples and families.  

  • Britannia Inn 

Open 11am-11pm, Lunch is served 12-2pm, Evening meals 5:30-8:30pm 

Eat and drink in a piece of history at the 400- year old Britannia Inn pub.  The pub is situated on Elterwater’s village green, originating as a farmer’s residence before turning into a coaching inn and is now a popular spot for walkers, cyclists and tourists. The pub has a great selection of cask ales often including locally brewed beers. The food is traditional for a Lakeland pub offering homemade classics such as Cumberland sausage and mash, beer-battered haddock and steak and ale pie. An ideal, cosy spot to fill hungry bellies after a long days hike. 

  • The Old Dungeon Ghyll 

Open 11am-11pm., Food served all day 12-9pm 

A pint in the famous Hikers Bar at The Old Dungeon Ghyll is an obligatory tradition amongst hikers and mountaineers visiting Langdale, with well-known faces including Sir Chris Bonington and Sir John Hunt paying a visit. The pub is a traditional rugged bar, with stalls from old cowsheds still in place as homage to the buildings past as a 19th century farmhouse. Situated at the head of the Langdale Valley below the iconic pikes, the pub offers six hand pulled ales, sourced from local Cumbrian breweries. Other drinks include, farm ciders and range of whiskies and a wine list. The food is as traditional as the pub itself serving homemade warmers such as Cumberland sausage and fish and chips.  

  • Wainwrights’ Inn

Open 12-10:30pm, Lunch is served 12-2pm, Evening meals 5-9pm   

A traditional Lakeland pub situated in Chapel Stile, Wainwrights’ Inn is a popular spot for locals and guests welcoming hikers and muddy boots. The Inn has had a variety of different uses over the years, originating as a farmhouse, the inn has been a managers home, a petrol station and a hotel. Now a traditional pub, the bar offers an ever-changing selection of ale to represent the ever-changing history of the pub, selling locally brewed ale and supplies from brewers further afield. The pubs hearty menu serves classics including lamb, steak and ale pie, Cumberland sausage, burgers, fish and chips and chilli. 

  • The Langdale Hotel and Spa- Stove Restaurant and Bar 

-Open to guests of the Langdale Hotel only- Lunch is served 12-5pm, Evening meals 5-9:30pm   

Less traditional and more fine dining, Stove restaurant and bar at the Langdale Hotel offers luxury food in a luxurious setting. The bar offers local favourites such as ales from Lake District breweries as well as more ‘sophisticated’ options in the wine room. Dishes available in the restaurant include steak, pizza and lamb and chicken meals. Pizzas are homemade in the restaurants own Wood Stone pizza oven. 

  • Three Shires Inn 

Open 12-10:30pm, Lunch is served 12-2:30pm, Evening meals 6-8pm   

A family run inn situated in Little Langdale, the Three Shires Inn is a pub popular with walkers and offers traditional, fresh local produce in equally traditional surroundings. The pub holds Cask Marque recognition for its well-kept traditional, locally sourced ales. Home cooked, Lakeland classics on the pub menu include fish and chips, burgers, steak, lamb, venison and pheasant; vegan and vegetarian options are also available. 

  • Chesters by the River 

Situated at Skelwith Bridge near Langdale, Chesters by the River is a riverside café on the banks of the River Brathay. A perfect spot for before or after a walk, the café serves a variety of light lunches and breakfasts including pancakes, salads, fish pie and cakes and coffee. Everything is homemade and baked on site. The café is popular amongst vegetarian and vegan guests for its extensive veggie options.

 Shopping local in Langdale

Whether you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and need a grocery shop, or simply looking to take back a Lake District souvenir there a few little shops in and around Langdale to suit your needs.

  • Langdale Co-operative Village Store 

Shop opens 9am-5pm everyday, Brambles Café open Mon-Sun 9-4:30pm but is closed Wednesdays. 

Established in 1884, this little co-operative shop in Chapel Stile is guaranteed to meet all your shopping needs. The first floor sells groceries including locally sourced produce with upstairs selling gifts and walking equipment. The second floor is also home to Brambles Café providing ready to eat, takeaway or eat-in breakfasts and lunch such as sandwiches, toasties, cakes and tea and coffee. 

  • Skelwith Fold Shop

Open Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday 9am-7pm

Situated in Skelwith Fold Caravan Park near Skelwith Bridge, this village styled shop is ideal for local, Lake District produce and groceries. Alongside food, the shop sells BBQ supplies, cards, books, maps, caravan accessories, outdoor wear, toys, pet food and food for local wildlife. 

  • LightBringer Essences 

Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am-5pm. 

A unique small business in Little Langdale ran by Rachel Singelton, LightBringer Essences is a small health and beauty shop selling flower essences. Rachel handcrafts small batches of essences using flowers originating from the Lake District.  The bottled essences can be used as a spray, rubbed on skin, added to bath water or dropped directly onto the tongue. Rachel believes flower essences act as a holistic health treatment and transfer the energetic energy from the flower into our bodies. 

  • Waterhead Shell Shop 

Open everyday 10:30am-4pm 

A quirky little gift shop situated at Waterhead around 15 minutes away from Langdale, Waterhead Shell Shop has been established for over 40 years and specialises in seashells, fossils, jewellery and gemstones. Shells can be bought separately to create your own crafts or can be bought as jewellery for gifts.

 When is the best time to visit Langdale?

Langdale is a beautiful place to visit all year round, however there are pros and cons depending on which season you visit…

  • Spring 

Visiting Langdale in spring between the winter and summer months is a great time as this is when local amenities are beginning to open back up if they have closed over winter. 

  • Spring is a busy time for farmers in Langdale, meaning local walks will offer sights of new life including new lambs. Langdale is home to Herdwick sheep; you can spot the lambs by their black fleeces, which lighten, as they get older. 

  • Some pubs and restaurants in Langdale, including the Sticklebarn, change their food menu seasonally. Springtime menus often include dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients such as spring onions, asparagus, peas, carrots and herbs such as dill, chives, mint and parsley. 

  • Summer 

Summer is the most popular time for visitors to the Lake District with warmer weather, longer days and public holidays encouraging tourists. 

  • Campsites in Langdale such as BaysBrown re-open in May, welcoming campers back to the site. 

  • The Sticklebarn pub host barbecue afternoons on their outdoor terrace with live music and outdoor fire pits for summer nights. 

  • The warm summer weather makes camping and hiking around Langdale enjoyable and wild swimming in nearby tarns such as Blea Tarn and lakes such as Elterwater will be warmer. 

  • Due to Langdale being a small, remote village, the area is less likely to become over-crowded in summer when compared to busier towns such as Keswick. 

  • Unfortunately, due to summer being a peak time in the lakes, hotels and self-catering accommodation are often at their most expensive which could be problematic for big families. Luckily, prices at BaysBrown campsite are consistent regardless of season so camping is always an alternative, cheaper option. 

  • Autumn 

Autumn is a beautiful time in the Lake District, with summer crowds disappearing and autumn leaves falling, its time for wild, wrapped up walks and cosy pubs and hot chocolates… 

  • Woodland walks in Langdale showcasing the seasons changing colours are ideal for autumn. Nearby forest walks to explore include Fletchers wood, Great Langdale woodland and Blea Tarn woodland. 

  • Halloween in Langdale is an exciting time for both adults and kids. The Sticklebarn pub often host October half-term activities with past events including bat walks, Halloween storytelling by a campfire and spooky film nights. 

  • Exploring caves is a fitting autumn activity for days when its bit rainy or cloudy. Nearby caves include Rydal Caves and Cathedral Caves. 

  • Winter 

Winter is likely the quietest time of year in the Lake District with closed amenities and cold weather keeping many tourists away. This doesn’t mean Langdale is off limits! Many winter days hiking in the snow or warming up by a roaring pub fire can still be enjoyed during the colder seasons… 

  • Campsites in Langdale such as BaysBrown close for the winter, with campers leaving for the last day on 31st October. Don’t let this put you off visiting though, on the plus side, local hotels and accommodation that remain open will be available at their cheapest prices. Great Langdale Campsite remains open and offers glamping pods for the colder months. 

  • Shorter winter days may make big hikes difficult, but short walks can still be enjoyed such as a stroll up to Blea Tarn or Stickle Tarn. Still want a mountain day? With an early start, hikes up Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes are still very much achievable during winter days. Be weather aware and prepared with the right kit when winter hiking. 

  • Finding a cosy pub with a fire is a great way to end a winter’s day in Langdale. Local pubs including the Wainwright Inn, the Sticklebarn and the Britannia Inn all have cosy, roaring fires to warm up next to with a pint.

 Where to park in Langdale

Whether you’re planning a hike, bike ride or stroll by the lakeshore, here’s a handy guide on where to park in Langdale and Elterwater. The majority of these car parks are National Trust; if you’re a member parking is free. 

  • Old Dungeon Ghyll car park 

National Trust car park ideal for accessing the Langdale pikes, higher surrounding fells, Mickleden or routes to Scafell Pike, this pay and display car park is located near Stickle Ghyll. An overflow car park is operational during busier weekends and holidays. PayByPhone is available here too. 

  • Stickle Ghyll car park 

National Trust car park with easy access to the Sticklebarn pub, the Langdale Pikes and Stickle Ghyll. A pay and display car park with PayByPhone available too. 

  • Elterwater car park 

National Trust car park which is an ideal starting point for walks visiting Skelwith Force, Loughrigg and Grasmere. The car park can get very busy during peak times. A pay and display car park with PayByPhone available too. 

  • Blea Tarn car park 

Located in Little Langdale, this National Trust car park is the main starting point for the Blea Tarn trail, offering picnic spots and spectacular views. A pay and display car park with PayByPhone available too.

 Gyms Near Langdale

When visiting the Lake District, the most obvious choice for exercise would be a hike. In Langdale, you’re spoilt for choice with little strolls along the valley or more strenuous mountain days. But for the days when you can’t get outside or fancy a session in the gym, there are a few nearby indoor activity centres and gyms… 

  • Langdale Hotel Fitness and Leisure Facilities 

Open 10am-6:30pm 

The leisure facilities at the Langdale Hotel offer excellent choices of gym equipment, including resistance machines, free weights, treadmills, bikes and more. The gym has its own dedicated studio with a varied fitness class timetable ran by qualified personal trainers. If you’re visiting the area, day passes are available for £25. If you’re going to be spending a fair bit of time in Langdale, membership options are available. 

  • The Worx Gym 

Open everyday 6am-10pm 

A short distance from Langdale situated in Under Loughrigg, Ambleside, the Worx Gym is a small centre but has all the essential equipment and machines. Day passes are available for people visiting the area, with membership options also available. The gym has a sauna and sunbed and hosts fitness classes, posting timetables on their Facebook page. 

  • Choices Health Club 

Open Monday-Thursday 6:30am-9pm,  Fridays 6:30am-8pm, Saturdays, 8:30am-5:30pm, Sundays 8:30am-5pm. 

Approximately a 20-minute drive from Langdale in Troutbeck Bridge, Choices Health Club is a great nearby gym. The centre offers a large cardio zone with specialist equipment, free weights, an aerobic studio, dedicated spin bike zone, a 15m swimming pool and a sauna. The gym offers personal training programmes and classes, which welcome non-members.