The most northerly lake in the Lake District, Bassenthwaite Lake sits to the north of popular Keswick in the shadow of Skiddaw.It is 4 miles long, 0.8 miles wide and has a maximum depth of 70 feet.
A designated nature reserve, the lake is quieter than some of its popular relatives such as Windermere. So if you’re looking for a beautiful lake to paddle to escape the crowds, Bassenthwaite could be it!
Rugged and bursting with various colours all year round, Bassenthwaite Lake looks like something out of Lord of the Rings. With little cottages dotted around the lake in the various dips and hollows, and in the shadow of Skiddaw mountain, it’s breathtakingly beautiful to paddle.
What nature are you likely to see? Well, this lake is home to a nature reserve after all. Expect to spot grasshopper warbler, curlew, greylag, geese, reed bunting and meadow pipit.
Remember, parts of the Lake District lakes can be quite exposed. Make sure you’ve planned your route if you’re going touring.
Plan ahead with the weather and be well prepared for a day on the water. You can find information on paddle safely here. Purchase a permit to paddle at Bassenthwaite here.