Walk 3485 - printer friendly version

High Birkhow & Low Wood from Wast Water Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 4.2 miles / 6.8 km

Ascent - 300 feet / 91 metres

Grade - easy

Start - OS grid reference NY148048
Lat 54.4314540 + Long -3.3149052
Postcode CA20 1EU (approx. location only)

This low-level Lake District walk starts from the shores of Wast Water and explores the area west towards the village of Nether Wasdale. The route includes a section of open fell, woodland and provides a great view of the Wastwater Screes to Wasdale Head and the high Lakeland fells. The route follows clear paths and tracks.

The start is the small parking area where the lane from Nether Wasdale reached the shores of Wast Water (grid ref. NY148048). After parking walk back up the lane. After 400 metres turn right (grid ref. NY146046) onto a signed track through woodland. Continue to the end of the track and go through the gate onto open fell. The onward grassy track bears left to reach a bridleway and a fingerpost. Turn Left and continue south-west to Ashness How.

Continue ahead passing a path to Woodhow Tarn on the left. At the next junction with a three-way fingerpost (grid ref. NY135044), turn right and continue to another junction after 200 metres. Turn left and cross Scale Bridge. Follow the path south-west passing Mill Place on the right from where you follow a track to reach a road to the east of Nether Wasdale (grid ref. NY129039).

Turn right and almost immediately left to follow a lane through trees. Reaching a road junction continue straight ahead signed to Holmrook. Cross Forest Bridge and turn left onto signed footpath to Wastwater. Follow the track to Easthwaite (grid ref. NY137034). Continue through the farmyard and follow a clear track to reach the River Irt. Turn left and follow the river upstream to Lund Bridge. Cross the bridge and turn right following the path with the river on your right. Stay on this path enjoying the views across Wast Water. Continue past Wasdale Hall Youth Hostel on your left to reach the start of the walk.

Messaging & Social Media

Message Walking Britain and follow the latest news.

Mountain Weather

Stay safe on the mountains with detailed weather forecasts - for iOS devices or for Android devices.