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.