Wast Water
About
Wast Water is the deepest lake in England, plunging to 79 m (258 ft) below sea level. A glacially carved basin in the western Lake District, it stretches almost three miles (five kilometres) long and is renowned for its clear, oligotrophic waters. The lake is owned and protected by the National Trust as part of the Lake District National Park, and the surrounding fells are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Special Areas of Conservation. The shoreline is easily accessible via a three‑mile walk that circles the entire lake, offering walkers dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and wildlife such as otters and waders. Many visitors choose to start their walk from the main car park at Wasdale Head, then follow the path along the northern side before turning to the southeast to explore the famed Wastwater Screes. A vibrant destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers, Wast Water delivers a combination of stunning alpine scenery, tranquil waters, and diverse wildlife. Its proximity to the iconic fells—Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and Whin Rigg—renders it a must‑visit spot for those seeking one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United Kingdom.
Highlights
- Deepest Lake in England
- Surrounding Peaks Panorama
- National Trust Managed
- Scenic Walk along the Shore
- Wastwater Screes