St Herbert's Island - Image 1
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St Herbert's Island

4.9
·31 reviews·, United Kingdom

A tranquil island sanctuary in Derwentwater, perfect for adventurous campers and paddlers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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St Herbert's Island - Image 1

St Herbert's Island

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil island sanctuary in Derwentwater, perfect for adventurous campers and paddlers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

4.9
(31 reviews)

"A great little 'secret Island' which the kids loved exploring after soaking each other getting there in the canoe!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Kayak or Paddleboard Essential

You'll need a kayak or paddleboard to reach the island. Book rentals in advance if needed! 🛶

Camp Responsibly

If camping, pack out all trash and avoid damaging trees. Leave no trace! :evergreen_tree:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.9 · 31 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Island Camping

Tranquil Island Camping

Derwentwater

Experience serene overnight stays on this secluded island, a perfect escape for nature lovers and campers.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventure

Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventure

Derwentwater

Paddle across the picturesque Derwentwater to reach the island, enjoying stunning lake views along the way.

Island Exploration

Island Exploration

St Herbert's Island

Discover the charm of this small island, a delightful spot for a picnic or a peaceful break from the mainland.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing St Herbert's Island

Reaching St Herbert's Island requires a watercraft like a kayak or paddleboard, as it's situated in the middle of Derwentwater. Plan your journey, especially if camping, as spots are limited and can fill up quickly. Be prepared for varying weather conditions in the Lake District.

Respecting the Island Environment

St Herbert's Island is a natural haven. Visitors are urged to practice Leave No Trace principles, avoiding littering and damage to trees. Respecting the island's tranquility ensures its beauty for future adventurers.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Beautiful island in the Lake District. If you camp here please be respectful don’t leave mess and I noticed live trees were cut and carving in the bark this can kill the tree some are 100s year old and on a island once there gone there gone. #wildcamping #lake #wildcampphil #kayakingadventures #adventure #Outdoors #woods #wildcampinguk #thelakes #solitude
@wildcampphil
2.1K likes • 42.7K views

Kayak or Paddleboard Essential

You'll need a kayak or paddleboard to reach the island. Book rentals in advance if needed! 🛶

Camp Responsibly

If camping, pack out all trash and avoid damaging trees. Leave no trace! :evergreen_tree:

#island #fishing #reef #fish #boat #renegade #northqueensland #trout #spanishflag #keswick
@lastcastnq
1.2K likes • 38.5K views
Landing on St Herbert’s island. Kettle on ,chair out, coffee and bun in just over a minute 💪💪😎🤣 #kayaking🚣 #kayakingfun #kayaklife #🚣 #kayakingisfun #kayaking #paddling #onthewater #caravanlife #ukcaravaners #caravan #caravanlifeuk #caravanfun #uktouringcommunity
fenland_paddler
105 likes • 438 views

Limited Spots

The island is small; arrive early, especially in peak season, to secure a good camping spot. ⛺

Enjoy the Serenity

Embrace the solitude and natural beauty. It's a 'secret island' experience! ✨

Kayaking to St Herbert’s island from kettlewell for an over night camp was something else…..I never actually stayed I paddled back in the dark…..never ever again I was cramping my pants 😂😂😂 big love for these guys man 🧡. . . . . . #lakedistrict #kayaking #befree #nodrama #thesimplelife #getoutside #adventure #explorepage #reels #reelsinstagram #jackrusell #dog #love #outdoors
ned_and_teds_adventures
237 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Kayak or Paddleboard Essential

You'll need a kayak or paddleboard to reach the island. Book rentals in advance if needed! 🛶

Camp Responsibly

If camping, pack out all trash and avoid damaging trees. Leave no trace! :evergreen_tree:

Limited Spots

The island is small; arrive early, especially in peak season, to secure a good camping spot. ⛺

Enjoy the Serenity

Embrace the solitude and natural beauty. It's a 'secret island' experience! ✨

Dark Paddle Caution

Paddling back in the dark can be challenging and unnerving. Be prepared! 🌙

What Travellers Say

4.9
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about St Herbert's Island as a beautiful and serene spot in the Lake District, perfect for a unique camping or day trip experience. The main draw is its secluded island setting, accessible only by watercraft, offering a sense of adventure and tranquility. However, its popularity means it can get crowded, and the limited space requires early arrival.

"Great place for a camp if you can get there before everyone else as space and spots are limited and obviously you need a kayak to reach it"

matt dyson

"Love this place so much. Lake district beauty at its finest!"

chris herring

"Great little 'secret Island' which the kids loved exploring after soaking each other getting there in the canoe!!"

Kristin Moat

What People Like

Secluded island setting
Peaceful atmosphere
Adventure of reaching it

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Limited space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Herbert's Island is located in the center of Derwentwater and is only accessible by water. You'll need to use a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to reach it. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in Keswick, the nearest town. 🛶 :paddle_boat:

No, St Herbert's Island is surrounded by Derwentwater and cannot be reached by foot. A watercraft is essential for access. :water_wave:

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular and recommended ways to explore Derwentwater and reach St Herbert's Island. They offer a close-to-nature experience. 🛶 :paddle_boat:

While Derwentwater has boat tours, they typically focus on scenic routes around the lake and may not stop directly at St Herbert's Island. It's best to arrange your own watercraft for a personal visit. ⛴️

St Herbert's Island is a short paddle from the shores near Keswick, typically within a mile or two depending on your launch point. The journey offers beautiful views of the surrounding fells. :mountain_fells:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit St Herbert's Island itself. Access is free, but you will need to arrange your own watercraft, which may involve rental costs. :moneywithwings:

St Herbert's Island is a natural island and is accessible at any time. However, consider daylight hours and weather conditions for safe paddling and camping. :sunriseovermountains:

Yes, wild camping is permitted on St Herbert's Island, but it's crucial to practice responsible camping. Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your impact. ⛺ :evergreen_tree:

St Herbert's Island is a natural, undeveloped island. There are no facilities such as toilets, bins, or designated campsites. Visitors must be self-sufficient. 🚽 :wastebasket:

There's no formal booking system for camping on St Herbert's Island. It's first-come, first-served. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a suitable spot. 📋

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

St Herbert's Island is ideal for a peaceful escape. Enjoy picnicking, exploring the small island, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature. It's a great spot for a quiet overnight camp. :picnic_table: 🐦

Yes, families can enjoy exploring the island after a fun paddle across Derwentwater. It's a great adventure for kids to discover a 'secret island'. :child: 🚀

You might spot various bird species around the lake and on the island. The surrounding waters are also home to fish. 🦆 🐟

Bring essentials like food, water, appropriate clothing for the Lake District weather, a first-aid kit, and camping gear if staying overnight. Don't forget a way to carry out all your waste. 🎒 :water_bottle:

Paddleboarding to St Herbert's Island is generally safe in good weather conditions. Always check the forecast, wear a buoyancy aid, and be aware of other watercraft. Paddling back in the dark is not recommended. ⚠️ :life_ring:

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the island from the water, especially during sunrise or sunset. The surrounding fells and the lake itself provide a beautiful backdrop. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives. :camerawithflash: :sunriseovermountains:

Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views. 🌻 :moonwithface:

Drone photography is possible, offering unique aerial views of the island and Derwentwater. Always be mindful of privacy and any local drone regulations. :drone: :camerawithflash:

Focus on capturing the island's isolation, the reflections on the water, and the expansive views of the Lake District fells. Wide-angle lenses are great for landscapes. 📷

The island is small, so explore its perimeter for different angles. The center offers a slightly elevated view, and the shores provide excellent water-level perspectives. 👁️

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