Ways to enjoy Thirlmere for free

There are plenty of fun and adventurous ways to enjoy Thirlmere for free, here are just a few ideas:

	Round Lake Family Cycle: Enjoy a cycle around the lovely Thirlmere Reservoir. The route starts at Wythburn at the southern end of the lake and then follows the National Cycle Network route on the western side of the lake. Read more
	Climb a Mountain: Helvellyn from the Thirlmere side If you want to savour the fantastic view down on to the edges from the summit, and if you want to walk rather than scramble then there is no finer way scaling Helvellyn than approaching up the well-graded paths from the Thirlmere side. Read more
	Go Miles without Stiles – a walk for the less mobile. Miles Without Stiles 39: Armboth and Station Coppice Route type: For all. Two short routes with excellent views of Thirlmere Reservoir - OS Explorer Map OL5 Distance: 0.25 km and 0.25 km or 0.2 miles Read more
	Go Red Squirrel Spotting: Once a common site all over Britain, red squirrels can now only be seen in wooded areas in the north of England, western Wales and in many parts of Scotland. Surrounded by trees, Thirlmere Reservoir is one recommended place you may spot a red – Woodland Walk NY320150 – numerous car parks and Forest Walks on western side of reservoir. Read more
	Delve into History: Thirlmere was created as a reservoir in the late Victorian era. Previously, two small tarns, Leathes Water and Wythburn Water, were connected by a stream and small causeway bridge. They disappeared when the valley floor was flooded. Take a walk through the history of conservation at Thirlmere. Read a description of the valley and its history from the Lake District National Park's World Heritage Site Nomination Dossier here
	Summer Bouldering: climb the Thirlmere Boulders Only able to climb when the level of the lake has dropped enough which is normally during mid summer. The rock is very clean due to being submerged for 9 months of the year. Also known as the Lost Boulders of Atlantis! Read more
	Go Rock Climbing at Raven Crag: A superb and impressive crag with a good selection of Extremes - Totalitarian (E1), Empire (E3), Medlar (E3/4), Blitzkreig (E4), Gates of Delirium (E4), Peels of Laughter (E5), Creation (E5) and Das Kapital (E6). Read more
	Paddle in a Tarn (or skim stones!): Thirlmere and Harrop Tarn Walk A good family walk, whatever the weather as much of it is sheltered by coniferous trees. Read more

Latest

2023 – Cumbria Good Lighting Technical Advice Note is launched
11 Sept 2024: Woodlands and watering cans

Autumn has arrived and so Jan and our volunteers head to Greenbank Wood in Ambleside, where they discover a few hidden treasures in the undergrowth.
Our History

Friends of the Lake District began at a rally in a park in Keswick in 1934, initially to campaign for the creation of a Lake District National Park, which they achieved in 1951. Many other battles have been fought since and continue today, to protect the landscapes of Cumbria.
Postcard From the Lakes: September 2024

This month our CEO jumps aboard a community run bus in Ullswater. We also news of many forthcoming events, such as a hedgerow planting volunteer day, mammal and track training, and our annual Kirby Lecture.

Volunteering

Learn new skills and join our army of volunteers helping us to make a practical difference to the Lake District all year round.
Our Purpose

We are an independent charity and the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing Cumbria's landscapes for future generations
Join Today

Play your part in protecting the Lake District by becoming a member today.
Elterwater Quarry Adventure Attraction plans resubmitted

Just before Christmas, revised proposals were submitted for a visitor attraction at Elterwater Quarry. We have reviewed the plans, we remain opposed to the scheme, and you can read our formal response here.
The Helm

Situated near Oxenholme, just south east of Kendal, and although not a very high hill at 185m, it gives beautiful views of Morecambe Bay and over Kendal to the Lake District fells. Fell ponies and cattle help us with conservation grazing at the Helm.
It's Time To Save Roanhead - Response Guidance

A NEW planning application has been submitted for the major resort development proposed at Roanhead. It will still have a huge impact on this sensitive coastline, even with a reduced number of lodges. Please join us again to challenge the proposal. Previous responses won't count and new responses need to reflect latest plans.
Why become a member?

Love the Lake District? Become a member of Friends of the Lake District and join thousands of people enjoying and protecting it.
Aerial Flight at Honister Slate Mine

We received the disappointing news that the Secretary of State will not ‘call in’ the proposed zip-wires at Honister and so the Authority’s approval stands. The Secretary of State is no longer required to give reasons for his decision.
What are the disadvantages of being in a National Park?
High Borrowdale

High Borrowdale is situated 8.5 miles north of Kendal, where we've planted trees, hedges and created new upland hay meadows. The best way to access it is from the A6, south of Shap. There is open access at all times and if you can't physically visit it, why not take a virtual tour?