Blea Tarn

One of the those places you just don’t want to leave.

Blea Tarn, a photographers playground!

Blea Tarn, nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s Langdale Valley, offers a stunning mix of natural beauty and tranquility, making it a favourite spot for photographers. Surrounded by iconic Lakeland fells such as the Langdale Pikes and Side Pike, the tarn provides excellent opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography. Its calm waters often create perfect reflections, and the area’s changing light and weather add drama to every scene. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a hobbyist with a passion for capturing nature, Blea Tarn’s serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings are sure to inspire creativity. With easy access and a variety of vantage points, this location is ideal for exploring different compositions and seasonal moods. Alfred Wainwright, the renowned fellwalker and author, frequently celebrated the beauty of Blea Tarn in his works. He described it as a place of profound serenity, perfectly situated between the grandeur of Great Langdale and Little Langdale. Wainwright also highlighted its accessibility and charm, noting that it provided an ideal vantage point for admiring the rugged peaks of the Langdale Pikes.

Directions:

  1. By Car:

    • From Kendal, follow the A591 towards Ambleside.

    • Just before Ambleside, take the A593 towards Coniston and Langdale.

    • After passing Skelwith Bridge, turn right onto the B5343 towards Great Langdale.

    • Continue through Elterwater and Chapel Stile. Or you can continue following the A593 up Hawkhead Hill and turn right as shown on the RHS.This takes you through Little Langdale but be warned its a single track road.

    • Shortly after passing the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, take the minor road signposted for Blea Tarn. The road climbs steeply and winds towards the tarn. Avoid this it its icy or snowy conditions you will not make it up if you don’t have a 4x4.

    • Parking: There is a National Trust car park close to the tarn. Parking fees apply unless you’re a National Trust member.

  2. By Public Transport:

    • From Kendal or Windermere, take a bus to Ambleside.

    • From Ambleside, switch to a bus towards Great Langdale and alight near the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel.

    • Note: The final stretch to Blea Tarn involves a steep walk along the minor road, approximately 1.5 miles.

  3. Walking Access:

    • From Great Langdale, it’s a moderate 1.5-mile uphill walk.

    • Alternatively, you can hike from Little Langdale, which offers scenic views along the way.

      OS Grid Ref: NY 29405 04351

Blea Tarn from the air

Some breathtaking footage of Blea Tarn and Side Pike.There are plenty other videos across You Tube that showcase Blea Tarn as this stunning location.

For photographers seeking a location that seamlessly combines accessibility with breathtaking natural beauty, Blea Tarn is a must-visit destination. Tucked away in the heart of the Lake District’s Langdale Valley, this tranquil tarn offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. From its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding peaks to its dynamic seasonal transformations, Blea Tarn is a canvas for creativity. Whether you are drawn to expansive landscapes, intricate details, or serene wildlife moments, the tarn provides an inspiring backdrop for photographers of all skill levels. A visit to Blea Tarn is not just a journey into nature but an invitation to capture the essence of one of England’s most picturesque locales.

Photography Tips:

  1. Best Times to Visit:

    Golden Hour: Early morning or late afternoon provides soft, warm lighting that enhances the reflections on the tarn and highlights the rugged contours of the surrounding fells.

    • Seasonal Highlights:

      • Autumn: Vibrant hues of gold and red reflect beautifully in the water.

      • Winter: Frost and snow create a serene, minimalist aesthetic.

      • Spring: Fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers.

  2. Essential Gear:

    • A sturdy tripod for long-exposure shots of the water and surrounding landscape and wellies!

    • Wide-angle lens for capturing the vastness of the scenery.

    • Polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance reflections.

    • Telephoto lens for wildlife photography, as the area is home to Heron and local deer.

    • Check Clearoutside.com and Photopills for weather and the position of the sun/milky way.

  3. Composition Ideas:

    • Reflections: Use the tarn’s still waters to capture mirror-like reflections of the Langdale Pikes.

    • Foreground Interest: Include rocks, grasses, or the iconic dry-stone walls to add depth to your shots.

    • Side Pike and Lingmoor Fell: Frame these fells for dramatic compositions, especially with moody clouds or dramatic light.

    • Details: Focus on close-ups of flora, such as mosses and heathers, or textures like rippling water or in winter, ice!

  4. Night Photography:

    • Blea Tarn’s remote location makes it an excellent spot for astrophotography. On clear nights, the lack of light pollution reveals stunning views of the Milky Way. Blea Tarn is officially a dark sky site!

Additional Tips:

  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District.

  • Bring waterproof boots or wellies, especially in wetter months, as the paths can be muddy.

  • Respect the environment: Stick to paths, take all litter home, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

  • If you’re using a drone, check local regulations as some areas may have restrictions.

Nearby Attractions for Photographers:

  • Cathedral Cave (Little Langdale): An impressive man-made cavern with light streaming through openings.

  • Great Langdale: Offers additional hiking and photography opportunities, including views of Bowfell and Crinkle Crags.

Blea Tarn’s beauty is a photographer’s dream, offering endless opportunities to capture the essence of the Lake District. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit.