The Lake District National Park is one of Britain's most celebrated landscapes, drawing millions of visitors each year to its famous lakes and mountain peaks. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Windermere and the crowds of Bowness lie hidden treasures that many visitors never discover.
As co-founder of NeonTours UK and a lifelong explorer of Britain's natural wonders, I've spent countless days uncovering the secret corners of this magnificent region. In this article, I'll share some of the Lake District's most magical hidden gems – places where you can experience the serene beauty that inspired Wordsworth, Coleridge, and countless other artists and poets.
1. Tarn Hows from the Unconventional Approach
Tarn Hows is admittedly no secret – it's one of the National Trust's most visited sites in the Lake District. But while most visitors approach from the main car park, there's a far more rewarding route that few discover.
Start from the village of Coniston and follow the track up through Tarn Hows Wood. This approach not only gives you stunning views as you ascend but also takes you through ancient woodland that feels worlds away from the sometimes crowded circular route around the tarn itself. Along this path, you'll find quiet spots perfect for a serene picnic overlooking the water, with the Langdale Pikes creating a magnificent backdrop on clear days.
NeonTours Insider Tip
Visit at sunrise (especially in summer) and you may have this spectacular view entirely to yourself, with mist often drifting across the water's surface. The play of early morning light on the surrounding fells creates a natural light show that photographers dream about.
2. The Secret Valley of Martindale
While tourists flock to Ullswater, one of the Lake District's largest and most popular lakes, few venture into the hidden eastern valley of Martindale. This secluded area is home to England's oldest native red deer herd and offers some of the most peaceful walking in the entire national park.
Begin your exploration at the ancient St Martin's Church (dating back to the 12th century) before following the track up toward Beda Fell. The panoramic views from the ridge take in Ullswater to the west and the wild moorlands of the Far Eastern Fells to the east – a contrast that perfectly showcases the diverse landscapes of the Lake District.
As you descend into the valley itself, you'll likely encounter more red deer than people. The silence here is profound, broken only by the occasional call of birds or the distant bleating of sheep. It's a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
3. Blea Tarn's Hidden Shore
Blea Tarn sits in a hanging valley between Great Langdale and Little Langdale, offering one of the Lake District's most iconic views of the Langdale Pikes. Most visitors park at the nearby National Trust car park and take in the view from the well-established viewpoint – and while this is undeniably spectacular, they miss the truly secluded experience.
Instead, follow the less-trodden path around to the tarn's southern shore. Here, you'll find a collection of large boulders that create natural viewing platforms and seating areas. On still days, the reflections of the Langdale Pikes on the water's surface are even more perfect from this angle, and you're likely to have this spot entirely to yourself.
"There is a hidden shore at Blea Tarn where the mountains seem to rise directly from your feet, creating an intimacy with the landscape that few other places in the Lake District can match."
For an even more magical experience, visit at dusk when the last light catches the peaks of the Pikes, turning them gold while the valley below falls into shadow. As darkness begins to fall, the absence of light pollution makes this an exceptional spot for stargazing.
4. Cathedral Cave: The Lake District's Hidden Underworld
The Lake District isn't just about mountains and lakes – it also hides spectacular underground wonders. Cathedral Cave in Little Langdale is part of the extensive slate mining history of the region, but unlike some of the more commercial cave systems, this one offers an adventure for the intrepid explorer.
To reach it, park at Tilberthwaite and follow the path through the old quarries. The entrance to the cave system is unassuming, but once inside, the space opens up dramatically. The main chamber earns its cathedral name, with a ceiling soaring 40 feet above and light filtering through from an opening above.
What makes this experience so special is the sense of discovery. With no artificial lighting or developed walkways, exploring Cathedral Cave feels like genuine adventure. The acoustics inside are extraordinary – the slightest whisper echoes throughout the chamber, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.
Safety First
Always bring at least two sources of light (a headtorch plus backup), wear appropriate footwear with good grip, and never visit the caves alone or in wet weather when water levels can rise quickly.
5. The Hidden Beaches of Wastwater
Wastwater is England's deepest lake and arguably its most dramatic, flanked by some of the country's highest mountains and the imposing scree slopes that plunge straight into the dark waters. While the main shoreline near the road is relatively well-visited, few people discover the secretive beaches that lie along the lake's western shore.
Access requires a bit more effort – park at the National Trust car park in Wasdale Head and follow the shoreline path. After about 20 minutes of walking, you'll start to discover small, secluded shingle beaches, each offering privacy and unparalleled views across the lake to Great Gable and Scafell Pike.
The water here is remarkably clear, though bracingly cold even in summer. On a hot day, a quick dip is an invigorating experience unlike any other in England. The sense of smallness you feel swimming beneath these towering mountains is humbling and unforgettable.
In Conclusion: Beyond the Guidebooks
The Lake District's true magic lies not just in its remarkable beauty, but in the personal connection you can form with its landscapes when you step away from the crowds. These hidden gems offer not only solitude but a deeper, more intimate experience of a region that has inspired generations.
At NeonTours UK, we specialize in helping our clients discover these secret places that don't make it into standard guidebooks. Our personalized itineraries can include these hidden gems and many more, tailored to your preferences and abilities. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, photography opportunities, or simply a deeper connection with Britain's most beautiful landscapes, the secret Lake District awaits.
