Blea Tarn Walk (Lake District)
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The Blea Tarn walk is a short route in the Langdale Valley, with wide views of some of the Lake District’s most dramatic scenery. From the start, the path leads to the calm waters of Blea Tarn, surrounded by the rugged Langdale Pikes.
This linear walk is about 3 km (1.9 miles) there and back. It gives you a true fell-side experience without the steep climbs you might expect here.s open hillsides and passes tpassesghpassesmall woodland before reaching the far side of the tarn.
Begin at the National Trust car park next to Blea Tarn and follow the stone path towards the tarn and the nearby hills.
You’ll find this walk in our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
WALK OVERVIEW
Distance: 1.9 miles (3 km) return
Route type: Linear
Difficulty: Moderate / challenging
OS Map: Explorer OL6
Terrain: Compacted stone path with rough and rocky sections
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ROUTE DETAILS
Begin at the National Trust car park beside Blea Tarn. Cross the road and go through the gate opposite to join the stone path leading across the fellside.
The path starts with a gentle climb before heading towards the tarn. As you walk, the view opens up to the impressive Langdale Pikes ahead, with Lingmoor Fell on one side and Pike o’ Blisco on the other. On a clear day, you’ll see some of the best mountain views in the central Lake District.
The path then goes downhill to the outflow of Blea Tarn, where a small wooden footbridge crosses the stream. After the bridge, head uphill and to the right into a small woodland of larch, pine, and birch trees.
There are benches along this part of the walk where you can stop to enjoy the views or take a break. The trail then leaves the woodland and follows a rougher path along the hillside, built by the Fix the Fells project.
This section gradually climbs back towards Blea Tarn road, north of the tarn. Many walkers turn around here and follow the same route back to the car park.
Dogs will love the open hills and peaceful setting on this walk. As with other upland routes in the Lake District, please keep your dog under control when livestock are nearby.
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ACCESSIBILITY NOTES
This route is part of the Miles Without Stiles collection by the Lake District National Park, which highlights accessible walks across the region.
Key points to consider:
Initial steep section leaving the car park (around 1:5 gradient)
Stone paths for much of the route
Rougher and rockier surfaces on the upper sections
Gradients up to around 1:6 in places
Due to uneven ground and some steep sections, this route is rated as challenging in the Miles Without Stiles programme. It may not be suitable for all types of wheeled mobility equipment.
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START POINT
Location: National Trust car park, Blea Tarn
Postcode: LA22 9PG
Grid reference: NY 295043
What3Words: ///clincher.coveted.snack
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TURNING POINT
Location: Fellside path north of Blea Tarn
Grid reference: NY 289051
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FACILITIES
There aren’t any facilities along the route, so bring water and anything you need.
You’ll find the nearest cafés, pubs, and toilets in the Langdale Valley, especially near the Old Dungeon Ghyll area.
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GETTING THERE
By Car
Take the B5343 through Great Langdale. After you pass the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, the road climbs steeply up to Blea Tarn. The National Trust car park is right next to the tarn at the top of the pass.
By Bus
There isn’t a direct bus to Blea Tarn. The closest stop is at the Old Dungeon Ghyll in Langdale, served by the 516 Langdale Rambler. From there, you’ll need to walk up the road to reach the tarn.
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LOOKING FOR MORE ROUTES?
Explore our guide to the 50 Best Dog Walks in the Lake District.
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Disclaimer: We do our best to provide accurate information, but please double-check details independently before making any plans based on this article.
Planning a Dog Friendly Lake District Break
Walks like the Blea Tarn route let you enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery the Lake District is famous for without spending a whole day in the hills. The mix of open views, calm water, and wide landscapes makes this a memorable short walk in the Langdale Valley.
Many people choose to stay nearby so they can explore Blea Tarn and other dog-friendly walks in the Langdales and around Ambleside.
Browse our dog-friendly Lake District cottages to find the perfect place for your next walking holiday.
