| Landscape Photography Blog

Your Top 10 Lake District Photographs of 2022

James — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 13:29:24 +0000

At the end of each year, I love to take a look back to see which photos have been the most popular with you. This year, beautiful Buttermere has been top of the list by far, with four of the 10 most popular images being in and around the little lake and valley.

Take a look at your favourite Lake District prints from 2022 and see if you love them as much as I do!

1. Buttermere View

A forever favourite, this wide-angle view over Buttermere was top of the list of photos in 2022. Taking in the famous tree line, with Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike rising above the water, the image is iconic. The autumn light causes a hazy effect that softens the edges of the rugged mountains, which are perfectly reflected in the tranquil lake.

Buttermere is always a pleasure to photograph, and I like to get there really early to avoid the crowds and to capture the breaking morning light.

2. Rydal Water Sunrise

Rydal Water is the second smallest lake in the Lake District, yet so much character and beauty is packed into the 0.3 square kilometres of water. This is perfectly displayed in this sunrise photo, with the dazzling light of the new sun contrasting with the lingering mist of the previous night. The day promises to be a beautiful one, with bright blue sky peeking through the gentle white clouds. To, me this photo reflects all the excitement that comes from exploring the Lake District.

3. Buttermere Tree

The Buttermere Tree is perhaps one of the most iconic scenes in the Lake District. The lone tree is an isolated figure, particularly in this winter print with frost on the ground and a cloudless icy sky. Despite the starkness of its position on the edge of the lake, there’s something that draws us all to it. Perhaps it doesn’t make us think of loneliness, but of peace and relaxation? Or perhaps it’s that the age old tree has survived for so long content to admire the stunning scenery of its surroundings.

The Buttermere Tree appeared twice amongst your top Lake District photographs in 2022! This wide-angle view also proved very popular.

4. Haystacks Reflection

The mass of Haystacks draws its name from the unusual lumps that cover its summit. It’s a favourite amongst Wainwright baggers as the authors favourite walk. And it’s a favourite amongst photography lovers for its immediately recognisable shape.

In this particular print, there’s no apparent space for the lake below, as the reflections of the hulking mountain take up the entire frame. Bringing a true sense of size, it only serves to reflect the magnificence of this landscape. And, of course, the black and white colour pallet creates a moody atmosphere that I’m often drawn to.

5. Herdwick on High

The Herdwick sheep is a quintessential part of the Lake District landscape. The hardy breed has been reared for the fells and was a great favourite of Beatrix Potter, who played a big part in ensuring the breed’s continuation.

Their pleasant faces seem to smile and it’s a delight to come across one sheltering behind a rock or grazing on a tuft of grass high up on the mountains. The moody black and white colouring contrasts beautifully with the charming face of a single Herdwick, adding a delightfully contemporary feel to the image.

6. Langdale Pikes & Side Pike

The colours are stunningly vibrant in this image of the Langdale Pikes and Side Pike in the central Lake District.

The Langdales are some of the most recognisable mountains in the national park, and this image looks as them from an angle that’s not seen all that often. Descending Lingmoor Fell, the view over the valley is spectacular and the contrasting weather within the same frame creates a mass of interest to keep the viewer engaged.

7. Scafell Glow

Scafell Pike is the tallest mountain in the Lake District (and in England) and, as a result, can be seen from many far-reaching locations. This shot is taken from alongside Derwentwater, approximately 8 miles away. Framed by the ‘Jaws of Borrowdale’, Scafell Pike is lit up with the fiery glow of the setting sun. Once you clasp eyes on this image, there’s no doubting where you are: in the heart of the Lake District.

8. Ashness Jetty

There’s something very peaceful about a lakeside jetty, particularly in the early evening. Ashness Jetty on Derwentwater is one of the most iconic and has been photographed many, many times. This one is a particular favourite, though, with the dark blues of the lake lapping alongside the peach hues cast by the last of the setting sun. A gentle timelapse provides a sense of movement in the whispy clouds and the gentle ripples of the water.

9. Autumn on the River Brathay

Nothing brings out nature’s colourful side like autumn! And during this season, I love to head over to the River Brathay near Ambleside to capture the flowing waters below a canopy of changing leaves. This area of the river, close to Clappersgate Bridge is always a delight to photograph, but no more so than when the trees are ablaze. Greens, oranges, yellows and reds fill the shot and delight the observer.

10. Brothers Water and Above

Brothers Water and Kirkstone Pass are deserving of a moody and dramatic shot. As the highest road in the Lake District, Kirkstone is a thrilling route. And, while the drive itself isn’t suited for stormy weather, it creates a stunning effect when viewed from below. Torrential rain dashes into the roiling waters of Brothers Water, while sharp shafts of light break through the deepening clouds. The picturesque results are incredible and it was a pleasure to be there to capture them.

Lake District Photography

Have you seen your favourite Lake District image on this list? There are plenty more to choose from when you browse the gallery.

Lake District Woodland Photography

James — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 10:14:54 +0000

At this time of year, the trees put on a magnificent display of colour. The forests of the Lake District dazzle with the brightness of the foliage and the softly falling leaves form a carpet that squishes or crackles underfoot. Whatever weather the season brings, woodland offers the photographer some wonderful scenes to capture: bright winter sunlight breaking through the bare branches; deep mist gently settling on the ground; and rain causing the landscape to sparkle.

There’s nothing quite as atmospheric as a wintry or autumnal woodland and I love to get out there with my camera and shoot away. Come rain or shine, I’m always amazed at the beauty that the trees offer.

Woodland Sunburst

Some days seem colourless and uninteresting. Rain hangs damply in the air and the solid mass of grey cloud makes it difficult to see where the earth ends and the sky begins. On such a day I was wandering through this Lake District forest when suddenly the sun appeared and a bright burst of light shot between the trees.

The fronds of slumbering bracken came into sharp relief, and their subdued colours took on vibrant hues. My trudging walk suddenly become much more upbeat as I grabbed my camera and started snapping away.

Misty mountains

Thirlmere, in the northern Lake District, is often overlooked for its more popular counterparts like nearby Derwentwater and Grasmere. This 3-mile-long reservoir is a lonely and stark-looking place surrounded by woodland. On a rainy autumn day, in particular, it can look outright bleak. But there’s something so wonderful in this bleakness. It abounds with character and, even in a hazy shower, the bright oranges and dark greens of the trees stand out. The path calls out and encourages you to keep on walking to find out just how far into isolation you can go.

Silhouettes

You couldn’t say, from this shot, just how far the woodland reaches. It could be a thin strip of trees, or a vast expanse of forest that stretches for miles. The sun can’t yet break through the light mist, which distils the morning colours into soft apricot shades. And the edges of the trees are blurred, enjoying the last few moments of their night-time slumber before they welcome a new day.

It wasn’t too much longer before the sun won its battle and the mist was dispelled along with the final remnants of the dark. But this moment, captured between waking and sleeping, fills me with a warm and cosy feeling that simply can’t be matched in the middle of the day.

Blue mountains

When asked to think of the colours of autumn, you’ll no doubt imagine deep russets, bright oranges, mellow yellows, or burning reds. Blue is not often a shade associated with autumn, but the azure and navy in this image – sitting below a pale orange-pink sky – are striking. The barrier of leafless trees in front create a tantalising obstruction that only makes you want to push forward and onward to the fells. This image tells of adventure to come just beyond the tree line.

Morning mist

I don’t know what it is about a gentle mist, but everything always seems so still and peaceful when it’s around. I love to get up early to capture the smoky haze before the sunlight banishes it into nothingness. There’s something evocative and mystical about a misty woodland, especially when the stripped branches of the trees jaggedly reach for the skies. In this image, the unadorned wood of the trees contrasts beautifully with the lush green of the moss below. You can almost feel the springy squelch of the ground as you step over it. But be careful, you don’t want to disturb the fairies!

Winter snow

These trees have seen it all. Their angled trunks tell a story of strong winds and raging nature. Yet still they stand, their deep roots sleeping under a thick bed of snow.

The location has a wonderful name: Sniggery Woods, as if the wind in the trees is enjoying some kind of unknown joke at my expense. Perhaps it recognises that my gloveless fingers are freezing as I try and capture that perfect shot in sub-zero temperatures.

The chill is worth it though for this monochrome shot and its striking contrasts. The smooth, freshly fallen snow is untouched, while the dark furrowed bark offers a polar opposite. Despite the giggling gusts, the scene is a peaceful one.

Looking forward to spring

Does anything colour a forest floor better than the humble bluebell? As much as I enjoy a woodland wander in the cooler months, there’s a real joy that comes with the arrival of the dainty flower. It heralds the start of spring and creates wondrous sights as the blooms stretch far into the distance of any woodland blessed with their presence.

Lake District Woodland Prints

All these prints and more are available to purchase online. Browse the photos and take home your own shady spot.

Lake District woodland photos.

Warnscale Head Bothy

James — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 15:13:58 +0000

Up above Buttermere in the Lake District you’ll find Warnscale Head Bothy. Featured in many a photograph, this small stone hut is inspirational to all manner of photographers, both professional and amateur. And it’s easy to see why.

The bothy’s dramatic position looks down onto the lakes of Buttermere and Crummock Water, and is surrounded by the craggy slopes of Haystacks mountain. Slightly off the well-worn track that runs along the southwest side of Fleetwith Pike, you could quite easily mistake it for a ruin. But the far end is a watertight room with a secure roof, paned windows, and even a wood burner! While you’d still need plenty of layers and a good sleeping bag to stay there overnight, you at least won’t be exposed to the elements.

Known primarily for its incredible sunsets, the location is also fantastic when covered in snow in winter (though you need to be a capable winter hiker to tackle the conditions). There are excellent photo opportunities both from inside and above, with the rough stone building creating a wonderful contrast against the lush valley bottom. This really is a ‘room with a view’, and the small square window looks out onto one of the most impressive views in Lakeland.

History of Warnscale Head Bothy

If you know anything about the industrial heritage of the area, it will come to no surprise that the bothy is an old miner’s cottage. Built in the mid-18^th century, it housed workers for the newly opened slate mine on Fleetwith Pike. You can learn more about the history of the mine – Honister Slate Mine, which is still active today – by visiting it. In fact, you could quite easily hike to it from Warnscale Head!

In 1812, the property was abandoned and left derelict for more than 150 years until it was finally restored – mostly by volunteers – and began to be officially used as a bothy. The building itself is privately owned but is maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association.

How to get to Warnscale Head Bothy

There is no vehicular access to the bothy, so if you want to visit, you’ll have to be prepared to hike with all your photography kit in tow. There are various approaches, so take your pick depending on interest and ability.

The most popular and from Gatesgarth Farm in the Buttermere Valley, and from Honister Slate Mine, which allows you to drive up much of the ascent and save your legs! However, if you’re after a longer hike, you can also get there from the neighbouring valley of Ennerdale, from the scree-covered slopes of Red Pike, or from the Derwent Fells.

If you’re planning to stay overnight, you should be willing to share and have a backup plan, as the bothy is popular, even with its tricky-to-find location.

From Buttermere

A handy pay-and-display car park is available opposite Gatesgarth Farm at the bottom of Honister Pass. There is reasonably limited space, so you’re best bet is to arrive early, or else later in the afternoon.

From here, cross the road and walk around the base of Fleetwith Pike until the path starts to climb. The path, though easy to follow, gets very steep in places and is loose rock, so be careful you don’t slip. Make sure you keep the river on your right.

When you reach a deep gully, it won’t be long until you can spot the bothy on the other side of the stream. Keep your eyes peeled, as the building blends well into the scenery. Continue past the location until the gully ends and you come across a ford in Warnscale Beck. Follow the path back down to the bothy.

From Honister Slate Mine

A slightly easier route – and one full of industrial heritage – begins from the Honister Pass National Trust car park (not to be confused with the Honister Slate Mine car park, which is for visitors only). You will, however, walk through the mine’s car park and follow the gravel road for a short while as it starts to ascend. Turn onto the footpath as soon as you can (indicated by the signpost for Great Gable and Haystacks) and continue along this very straight dismantled tramway. Look out for remains of historic industry here.

At the end of the straight path, you’ll reach a gravel road again and Dubs Hut, another bothy, but not the one you’re looking for! Instead, continue down the gravel road until you join a footpath on the left that takes you to a river crossing. Shortly after this, you’ll veer right, off the main path. Continue on until you meet a maze of tracks, after which you’ll have to hunt around a little bit to find the right place!

Browse Buttermere prints

Lake District Autumn Photography

James — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 06:53:30 +0000

As the year starts to turn to autumn, the Lake District landscape takes on new fiery colours of copper and auburn, saffron and gold.

The cooler weather and warm hues make this the perfect time of year for photography, and I love to get out to some of the Lake District’s most iconic locations to capture some autumn scenes. Here are some of my favourite.

Autumn on the river

The River Brathay is an inspiration during all seasons. But when the canopy starts to change colour and thin out, leaves gently float down into the flowing water, creating an artistic and natural effect. At Clappersgate Bridge, the bowed trees reach for the river as the flowing water carries the leaves in dancing swirls downstream to Windermere.

Wastwater

It’s not only the leaves that change colour during autumn. Head to Wastwater at the turn of the season and you’ll see how the landscape transforms entirely. The grasses, bracken and fells all do their part to create a dazzling autumn portrait of the landscape.

Wastwater is one of the most iconic Lake District scenes and autumn captures the true splendour of the lake and mountains.

Rydal Water

Rydal Water is a small lake with a big personality. I love this autumn landscape photo because of the amount of character packed into one shot. The stormy clouds in the sky, a touch of mist above the trees, the gentle ripples on the lake, and the splash of sunlight on the slopes. You can see why this was such a popular haunt for Romantic poets like William Wordsworth.

Loughrigg Tarn, the Langdales

Nothing says ‘wish you were here’ like this autumn photo of the Langdales in the Lake District. Taken from the shores of Loughrigg Tarn, the mountains tower over bushy trees that will soon shed their leaves entirely. For now, they offer a multitude of delightful shades that are quintessentially autumnal.

Thirlmere

The light is just perfect in this autumn shot of Thirlmere. Though the light is soft and gentle, a sun beam is nonetheless striking as it cuts a line across the rusty trees and onto the reflecting water.

Of all the lakes in the Lake District, Thirlmere is often overlooked as people travel between Derwentwater and Grasmere. But this shot proves that there is a lot of beauty to be enjoyed if you look to the secret places. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds.

Yew Tree Tarn, Coniston

A well-placed bench at Yew Tree Tarn provides you with the perfect Lake District autumn view. Close to Coniston, this tarn is easy to access thanks to the road that runs alongside it, and the car park close by. It’s a popular fishing spot, and you might see aquatic dwellers darting through the shaded water.

Just imagine a crisp autumn day, and sitting on this bench with a loved one, keeping warm together as you enjoy the view.

Stockghyll, Ambleside

Autumn is a wonderful time for riverside walks, and this one from Ambleside is a delightful short stroll to some impressive waterfalls. This autumn photo is taken from further down the ghyll, though you can still see the water dashing briskly over the rocks on its way to the River Rothay and onto Lake Windermere.

The canopy of the surrounding woodland is as colourful as you would expect at this time of year, and helps keep you dry if it’s a little wet out!

Causey Pike, Newlands

Whatever the season, the mountains that tower over Derwentwater and Keswick create an incredible panorama. But in autumn, the breathtaking fells are even more dramatic thanks to the burnt oranges and rusty reds of the trees on the lower slopes. Subtle shades and even a sprinkling of early snow make this autumn photo of Causey Pike something very special.

Ashness Bridge, Borrowdale

One of the most photographed spots in the Lake District, Ashness Bridge in Borrowdale is postcard-pretty. The waters of Barrow Beck bubble over the rounded rocks, drawing your eye towards the spectacular view over Derwentwater and Skiddaw. Pockets of orange autumn leaves contrast delightfully with the dark grey of the stones that line the stream. It’s no wonder that this is such a popular Lake District photo!

Autumn Woodland, Grasmere

There’s something mystical about these paths running through a tranquil woodland near Grasmere. Perhaps it’s the promise of hidden things at the unseen end of the trail. Or maybe the contrast between orange leaves on one side, and bare branches on the other makes this panorama a little bit magical, taking in two seasons in one shot. Whatever the reason, the woodland paths beckon you onwards for a pleasant autumn stroll under the trees.

Lake District autumn prints

Browse all my seasonal Lake District photography.

Lake District Viewpoints by Car

James — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 18:51:06 +0000

The Lake District is well known for its amazing viewpoints: from the foot of a lake, from the tallest mountain in England, or from a rocky outcrop half-way up a fell. Many of the best views require a reasonable walk or a strenuous hike, but there are also incredible viewpoints that you can reach easily by car.

Get behind the wheel and find a handy lay-by or car park where you can enjoy these incredible vistas from the car or very nearby.

Note: If you are stopping to admire the view, please be considerate of other road users. Do not block access or park on verges, but find an available parking space or lay-by. This helps everyone enjoy the countryside, keeps the landscape and wildlife safe, and allows workers and emergency vehicles to carry out their jobs.

Honister Pass

The Lake District has a number of high mountain road passes. They’re a thrilling ride for confident drivers and offer some incredible views. Be aware of the steep gradient, but otherwise enjoy the incredible views that open up for you as you go up and over the highest point of the road.

Honister Pass is enjoyed from both directions. Driving east, you can admire a seemingly endless vista of tall mountains, while towards the west you look down into the beautiful Buttermere valley with its twin lakes of Buttermere and Crummock Water.

Bassenthwaite Lake

Because the A66 road runs right along one edge of Bassenthwaite Lake, it’s one of the easiest lakes to reach by car. You don’t need to navigate narrow, twisting roads like you do for many other lakes, and it’s the perfect place for a view if you’re not confident on Cumbria’s country roads.

As you travel from Keswick, there is a large lay-by before you reach the dual carriageway. Park here and take a short wander onto Blackstock Point where you can admire the view over the lake and towards Skiddaw. On certain days, you’ll also see white sails gliding across the tranquil water as members of Bassenthwaite Lake Sailing Club take to the water for their regular races.

Kirkstone Pass

Another mountain pass to rival Honister, Kirkstone Pass runs between Ullswater and Windermere. It’s another route that’s only suitable for confident and experienced drivers, and only in appropriate weather conditions. However, when you’re up there, the views are marvellous. You can simply drive along enjoying the lush rolling mountain scenery, or stop off at the famous Kirkstone Pass Inn for refreshments and to admire the view. There’s a large parking area for pub users and a beer garden that offers a scintillating glimpse of Windermere lake in the distance.

Ashness Bridge and Surprise View

Drive from Keswick into Borrowdale and you can glimpse flashes of Derwentwater throughout. But head up to Ashness Bridge and Surprise View and you can park up right next to an incredible panorama that will take your breath away.

There’s a short but steep road up to the oft-photographed packhorse bridge. Here you can park in a small parking area and admire the famous view for yourself. Continue driving a little further uphill and you’ll come to the Surprise View car park. Just a few steps away from here, the woodland opens out to look out over Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake in the distance. You’ll be in no doubt why this is called Surprise View!

Monk Coniston

Monk Coniston car park is right at the edge of Coniston Water and so is an incredibly convenient place to see an stupendous view just a few short feet from the car. Park up and then wander down onto the shingle beach. Its position right at the north end of Coniston means that you can look down the entire length of the lake and admire the lapping waters and surrounding hills. Beautiful!

Claife Viewing Station

During the Victorian era, the fashion amongst Lake District visitors was to travel between a number of viewpoints that were specially created to frame a picture-postcard view. Claife Viewing Station is one place that is still standing today: it’s a small stone building with colourful glass panels looking over Lake Windermere.

To get here by car, you can drive all the way around from Ambleside, or take the car ferry from Bowness. It’s a 5-minute walk from the Far Sawrey Jetty, or from nearby Ash Landing car park.

Noble Knott, Whinlatter Forest

Whinlatter Forest is England’s only true mountain forest and stands proudly across from Skiddaw. The trees often open out to offer up spectacular views across Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding mountains, and there’s no better – or easier to reach – viewpoint than Noble Knott.

Follow the main road of Whinlatter Pass up and out of Braithwaite. You can’t miss Noble Knott car park: it’s on your right as you round a tight bend and the view opens out. There are around 20 spaces here – one often taken up by an ice cream van – and the view over Bassenthwaite is incredible.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

A short drive out of Keswick will bring you to Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the most spectacular stone circles in the country. Perched on a hill, there are 360-degree views of the Lake District, including mountains such as Blencathra. There are a small number of parking spaces opposite the field that houses the circle. Then you can take a short amble to the stones to take in the sights.

Elterwater & The Langdale Pikes

The shapely outline of the Langdale Pikes make them one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Lake District, and they’re best seen from the small lake of Elterwater. You can drive into the village of the same name and park up, but there is also an excellent spot on your drive into the village. As you travel from Windermere along the B5343, you’ll pass a cattle grid and find a lay-by immediately on your left. From here you have truly stupendous view of the rugged peaks with the picturesque village below. There’s also a handy bench so you can sit outside instead of in the car.

Lake District Viewpoints

Browse prints and photographs of the best viewpoints in the Lake District.

The Best Sunrise Locations in the Lake District

James — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 16:49:01 +0000

Whether you’re an early riser or not, getting out of bed promptly on a fine, clear day is well worth it. By doing so you can admire one of nature’s most spectacular displays as the sun starts to peek above the earth.

In the Lake District, the addition of rugged peaks and reflective waters makes a sunrise even more spectacular. Just sitting by the shore of a lake and watching as the sky comes to light is both peaceful and invigorating.

But where is the best place to catch a sunrise in the Lake District? Here are my top picks.

Derwentwater and Borrowdale

Borrowdale boasts some of the most dramatic landscape in the Lake District, and it blazes in the early morning light. Standing on the edge of Derwentwater looking into the famous Jaws of Borrowdale is an awe-inspiring experience at any time of the day. But add in the colours that a sunrise brings, and you feel transported to a different world. Sit and watch the shadows fade away down the mountain slopes as the town of Keswick behind you slowly comes to vibrant life.

Scafell Pike

If you’re an experienced walker and are happy to get out of bed in the middle of the night, watching the sun rise from England’s highest mountain will be an unforgettable experience. You’ll need to be a knowledgeable night hiker, who can navigate in the dark. Race the sun to the top of the mountain then, when you reach the peak, sit back and watch the world below you as the sun gradually expands its reach and bathes the land in light.

Windermere

Windermere is a bustling hub of activity throughout the day. But catch it early on and the sleeping buildings and tranquil landscape take on a new quality of magic. Boats bobbing on the water seem to relax on their anchors, and only the occasional wave against the shore disturbs the peaceful silence. There’s no better feeling to be had.

Buttermere

Throughout the day, Buttermere is a popular spot where you’ll find people swimming and sunbathing, children playing, and dogs snuffling at all the scents. But get there first thing in the morning for a sunrise and you could hear a pin drop. The iconic lone tree of Buttermere catches the moving light, and the inspirational outlines of Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike come into sharp relief with the onset of the rising sun.

Rydal Water

Picture a rolling mist topping the water of Rydal just before dawn. All forms of creature are still curled up in their nests and burrows. The lake sits undisturbed. As the sun rises, the mist breaks apart, revealing the crystal reflections in the water. Sit on the banks and enjoy the sun rise over Rydal Water, then take the easy stroll to nearby Grasmere for a good breakfast.

Ravenglass

Nothing quite beats the coast when it comes to sunrises. On the distant horizon, above the rolling waves, it promises a future of unending adventure and excitement. Settle back in the sandy dunes just outside Ravenglass – the Lake District’s only coastal village – at take it all in from your vantage point. If you ever get tired of looking out to sea, turn around to see the sun’s rays reaching out to touch the mountains at the start of a brand new day.

The Langdales

In the heart of the Lake District are the Langdale Pikes, favourites amongst adventurers, walkers and seekers of solitude. Their prominent peaks stand out amongst the lower fells, and the colours of their slopes tell a different story every single day. From up top or down below, catch them at dawn as the sun heralds a new day and you’ll capture a moment to last you a lifetime.

Lake District Sunrise Photography

Take these wonderful moments home with you with a print of a truly stunning Lake District sunrise. Click on the images above to see the sunrise prints available as print only, on canvas, or framed.