
Bowder Stone Lake District
A colossal 2,000-ton glacial boulder balanced precariously on its edge, with a metal staircase for climbing. A unique natural wonder in Borrowdale.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Bowder Stone Lake District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 2,000-ton glacial boulder balanced precariously on its edge, with a metal staircase for climbing. A unique natural wonder in Borrowdale.
"It's a big stone in a beautiful setting, definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!"

🚗 National Trust Parking
Use the National Trust car park for convenient access. Watch your step on the paths!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the area.

Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bowder Stone Itself
Borrowdale Valley
A massive 2,000-ton glacial boulder balanced precariously on its edge. Climb the built-in stairs for a unique perspective.

Climb to the Top
Bowder Stone
Ascend the metal staircase for panoramic views and a thrilling sense of accomplishment. A true Lake District adventure!

Borrowdale Valley Walk
Surrounding Bowder Stone
Enjoy a delightful walk through scenic woods and along the valley floor to reach the stone. Combine with longer hikes for a full day out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Boulder's Majesty
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 National Trust Parking
Use the National Trust car park for convenient access. Watch your step on the paths!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the area.
🧗♀️ Climbing the Stone
A metal staircase makes climbing accessible. It's a fun challenge for all ages!
🚶♀️ Extend Your Walk
Combine your visit with a longer hike in the beautiful Borrowdale Valley for a full day of exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 National Trust Parking
Use the National Trust car park for convenient access. Watch your step on the paths!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the area.
🧗♀️ Climbing the Stone
A metal staircase makes climbing accessible. It's a fun challenge for all ages!
🚶♀️ Extend Your Walk
Combine your visit with a longer hike in the beautiful Borrowdale Valley for a full day of exploration.
🍀 Good Luck Charm
Legend says shaking hands at the base brings good luck! Give it a try.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bowder Stone for its impressive scale and unique geological formation. The accessibility via a short walk and the opportunity to climb the boulder are major highlights. Some note that it can get busy, and parking fees apply, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and memorable stop in the Lake District.
"Parked up nearby and found this place. We then filled the path a mile, cross the road and was amazed. True beauty 🤩"
Richard Bishopp
"Definitely worth going here. Short walk to the stone from the car park or can be made into a longer walk if preferred"
sarah burke
"Bowser stone is worth a visit if you're in the area, we walked from rosthwaite to the stone"
Robyn Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bowder Stone is located in Borrowdale Valley, near Grange. The easiest way to access it is by car, with a National Trust car park nearby. You can also reach it via public transport, though it may involve longer walks.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park conveniently located close to the Bowder Stone, making access straightforward.
While direct public transport to the immediate vicinity might be limited, you can take buses to nearby villages like Keswick and then embark on a scenic walk or cycle to the Bowder Stone.
Many visitors enjoy a pleasant walk from the National Trust car park through the woods. Alternatively, you can make it part of a longer circular walk from villages like Rosthwaite.
The main path to the Bowder Stone is generally accessible, but the climb onto the stone itself requires using a metal staircase, which may not be suitable for everyone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to see the Bowder Stone itself. However, parking at the National Trust car park may incur a fee.
The Bowder Stone is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. The surrounding paths and car park will have their own operating hours.
There is no entrance fee to view the Bowder Stone. It's a natural landmark open for all to enjoy.
Yes, you can climb the Bowder Stone using the provided metal staircase. It's a popular activity for visitors.
Yes, children often enjoy the novelty of the Bowder Stone and climbing it via the stairs. Adult supervision is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Bowder Stone is a massive glacial boulder, estimated to weigh around 2,000 tons, that has fallen from the cliffs and rests on its edge. Its sheer size and precarious position make it a unique geological wonder.
A visit to the Bowder Stone itself can be quite short, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend climbing and taking photos. If you combine it with a walk, it can be a half-day or full-day excursion.
Besides marveling at the stone and climbing it, you can enjoy walks in the beautiful Borrowdale Valley, explore nearby fells, or visit other attractions in the Lake District.
Absolutely! The Bowder Stone offers unique photographic opportunities, especially with its dramatic setting and the ability to climb it.
It's said that if you shake hands at the base of the Bowder Stone, it will bring you good luck.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Try capturing the scale by including people for comparison. Shots from the base looking up, or from the top looking down, offer dramatic perspectives. The surrounding landscape also provides beautiful backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots. Midday sun can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities to capture the stone's texture.
The base of the stone, the top after climbing, and various points along the walking paths offer excellent vantage points for capturing the Bowder Stone and its surroundings.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the stone and its environment. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or to ensure sharpness.
Drone usage in National Parks like the Lake District is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone.











Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit