Loweswater is one of the lesser known, but least spoilt villages in the English lake district. Situated a few miles south of Cockermouth in the same valley as Buttermere it has the advantage of not being as well known. As a result it is considerably less crowded, even in mid-summer.

Crummock Water from Loweswater Village

Both sides of David's family, going back several generations have lived in the village including his parents, so the area has great personal significance. His father was born there, and both his parents were brought up in the village.

 

Loweswater village and lake viewed from Melbreak

There are three lakes within walking distance from the village. Loweswater lake itself has the distinction of being the only lake to empty in the direction of the centre of the Lake District,


Loweswater lake from Holme Wood, with Low Fell & Grasmoor in background

Crummock Water and Buttermere are situated at the upper end of the valley, separated by Buttermere village. Geologists will tell you that they were once a single lake, separated by an alluvial fan.

 

 

The best known mountains in the valley are Grasmoor, Whiteside with Highstile, Red Pike, and Haystacks further down the valley and really belonging to Buttermere. Haystacks, being Wainwright's favourite peak, is to a degree a vicitm of it's popularity. Almost all of the peaks can be highly recommended, but Grasmoor is my favourite, the direct ascent up the face is a particularly good scramble, but any ascent is worthwhile, with views as good as any. Whiteside has a good route up right hand ridge and a fine ridge walk up to Hopegill Head.

 

 Whiteside (left) and Grasmoor (right)

 

Red Pike has Scale Force, one of Lakeland's finest waterfalls on it's northern flank, but viewers must be prepared to get wet both to reach it, and to view it at close quarters since the approach path is wet, and the falls themselves can only be fully viewed by scrambling up the (extremely slippery) gorge, there used to be a ladder up the lower falls to enable access to the gorge, but presumably safety concerns mean it is no longer there. Melbreak, while relatively small has excellent views and a good climb up the chimney on it's northen end. However it is extremely wet on top - be warned

 

Grasmoor with early morning autumnal mist

St Bartholomews Church has especial significance for David , his parents were married there, and hewas christened there. Both occasions were conducted by his late uncle the Reverend Geoffrey White. The Kirkstile Inn is conveniently situated just opposite the church and serves beer brewed on site as well as local Cumbrian ales. Food is very good, but sadly there is a need to book most evenings.

 

Since 2005 we have had the good fortune to live in Loweswater, maintaining a family presence for over 100 years.