Ashness Bridge & Surprise View
Ashness Bridge is probably the most photographed place in the Lake District. If not, it must come a close second.
This old packhorse bridge between Keswick and Watendlath crosses Barrow Beck on the narrow, dead-end lane. The bridge dates from the 18th century when goods were transported on the backs of horses but has a 19th century parapet and was widened in the 20th century (although it is still barely wide enough for a single car).
It is a typical old-fashioned Lakeland stone bridge, but it’s really the view from the bridge that makes it such a popular spot. Standing upstream of and facing the bridge provides an impressive view of Derwentwater and the Skiddaw mountain range as a backdrop.
Ashness Bridge with the Skiddaw mountain range in the background
The bridge has become an icon for landscape photographers. I’ve seen hundreds of photographs of this bridge on the internet. I was surprised by how many people visit the bridge as it can be almost impossible to take a photograph without people walking or driving over it. The bridge is approached by a steep and very narrow lane from the main Borrowdale road shortly after leaving Keswick.
The old mountain hut from the boulder strewn banks of Barrow Beck
There is a small National Trust car park in the trees just off the lane, immediately after Ashness Bridge, but the road and the bridge itself are very narrow, and there aren’t many spaces for parking. About ½ a mile further up the road there is a larger car park where you are more likely to find a space, then its a short walk down hill to the bridge. My favourite spot is on the rocks by the beck just above the bridge. This gives the perfect combination of Ashness Bridge in the foreground with Derwentwater and Skiddaw behind.
Heading back up the hill to the car park is another location that’s well worth visiting, the very aptly named Surprise View.. One minute you’re on a road heading uphill through the woods and, almost immediately, the trees end and the ground disappears to reveal a stunning panorama that takes in Catbells, Skiddaw, Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake. The view is on top of a cliff edge with sheer drops so you need to be careful when trying to compose your shot. Always keep an eye on where you’re standing rather than just looking through the lens.
Beyond Surprise View, the lane continues for a further two miles, ending at Watendlath, a picturesque collection of cottages, farmhouses and a tea room beside a little tarn, Watendlath Tarn, at about 850ft above sea level. The section of the road is particularly narrow, windy and with dry stone walls close to the road edge that make it difficult to drive when there is on coming traffic.
Derwentwater and Catbells from Surprise View
Getting There:
From Keswick, follow the B5289 Borrowdale Road for approximately 2 miles. Turn left up the small road signposted Ashness Br. and Watendlath. Go over the cattle grid and follow the road for ½ mile until you come to the bridge. Continue over the bridge and there is a small carpark on the right.
Ashness Bridge Grid Ref: NY 270 197
Continue for a short distance to come to a second car park at Surprise View
Surprise View Grid Ref: NY 268 189
Follow the road for a further 2½ miles to reach Watendlath and Watendlath Tarn
Watendlath Grid Ref: NY 276 163