Surprise View
A breathtaking viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of Derwentwater and the Borrowdale valley after a short, easy stroll.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, capture golden hour
Surprise View
Best Time
Avoid crowds, capture golden hour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of Derwentwater and the Borrowdale valley after a short, easy stroll.
"Surprise View really lives up to its name — we weren’t expecting this kind of view after such a short walk! 
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills up fast! Aim for early morning to guarantee a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
While the main view is close, the terrain can be uneven. Hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Vista
Overlooking Derwentwater and Borrowdale
Breathtaking views of the lake, valley, and surrounding fells. A true 'surprise' after a short walk.
Winter Wonderland Potential
The entire viewpoint area
Magical transformation in snow, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Rock Climbing Spectacle
Nearby rock formations
Witness skilled climbers navigating the dramatic rock faces, adding an extra layer of dynamism to the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Surprise View
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills up fast! Aim for early morning to guarantee a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
While the main view is close, the terrain can be uneven. Hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the 'Surprise'
The short walk to the viewpoint makes the reveal even more impactful.
✨ Visit During Autumn Colors
The natural beauty is enhanced by vibrant autumn foliage. :maple_leaf:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills up fast! Aim for early morning to guarantee a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
While the main view is close, the terrain can be uneven. Hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the 'Surprise'
The short walk to the viewpoint makes the reveal even more impactful.
✨ Visit During Autumn Colors
The natural beauty is enhanced by vibrant autumn foliage. :maple_leaf:
🌌 Stargazing Gem
On clear nights, the lack of light pollution offers incredible stargazing. :milky_way:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Surprise View for its stunning, unexpected panoramas and easy accessibility. Many appreciate the short walk to the viewpoint, making it a perfect stop for a quick dose of natural beauty. However, parking can be a significant issue, with the car park often filling up early and sometimes being inaccessible, leading to disappointment for some.
"I never expected this place to look like a winter wonderland in the snow! It was absolutely amazing. I’d love to visit again if we get snow next time!"
Nivedha Mahesh Srinivasan
"Entrance to one of my favourite walks. I like to get out nice and early before the crowds and this has always been a favourite of mine however on my most recent visit I arrived at 7.30, as usual, to find the car parks gates shut and padlocked. I tried to find some signage as to why and when it opens but appeared to be none. So after quite a fair drive to get there I was forced to turn away."
DEAN BUTLER
"This is a really beautiful walk. It's a circuit which you can comfortably do in an hour (about 2km). Managed it with my 2 young kids, but not suitable for a push chair. Carpark was a decent size and off the road, makes it much easier access than some other walks. Great rocks and edges for sweeping photos"
Rowan Hills
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Surprise View is accessible via the Surprise View car park (National Trust, postcode CA12 5UU). It's a short, easy walk from the car park to the viewpoint.
Information on public transport directly to Surprise View is limited. Driving is the most common method, but check local bus routes for nearby villages if you're relying on public transport.
Using the postcode CA12 5UU in your GPS will lead you to the Surprise View car park.
Finding alternative parking can be challenging due to the popularity of the area. Arriving very early is the most reliable strategy.
Absolutely! It's a quick stop with a huge payoff in terms of views, making it perfect for road trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Surprise View car park is managed by the National Trust and typically has a fee for parking. Expect to pay around £5 for a couple of hours.
The viewpoint itself is always accessible. However, the car park gates may be locked outside of certain hours, as one visitor experienced. It's best to arrive during daylight hours.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Entry is based on car park availability.
Yes, National Trust members can usually park for free at National Trust car parks, including Surprise View.
Yes, Surprise View is accessible at night and is a fantastic spot for stargazing if the skies are clear.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures, especially for stargazing.
The main viewpoint offers the iconic panorama. Exploring slightly off the main path (safely) can reveal unique angles of the rocks and landscape.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local bylaws and National Trust guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
Dramatic skies, mist rolling through the valley, or a dusting of snow can create incredibly photogenic scenes.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from the car park to the main viewpoint is very short, often described as a 0.1-mile stroll.
Yes, the short walk to the viewpoint is manageable for young children. However, it's not suitable for pushchairs due to the terrain.
Surprise View is a great starting point for longer hikes in the Peak District. You can explore the surrounding fells and valleys. +1
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the Surprise View viewpoint. You'll need to visit nearby towns like Keswick for these amenities.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main viewpoint. Layers are advisable as the weather can change quickly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be aware that the terrain is not suitable for pushchairs, so you might need to carry younger ones. 📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a tripod for sharper images, especially if you plan to stay for sunset or stargazing. 🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the 'Surprise'
This accessibility makes it a popular choice for those seeking stunning scenery without a strenuous hike. Many visitors discover it by chance and are captivated by its beauty, especially during seasons with vibrant natural colors. What makes Surprise View particularly special is its ability to surprise. Unlike some viewpoints that require a significant trek, the reward here is immediate and immense. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick stop on a scenic drive or a gentle outing for families. The dramatic landscape, with its rugged rocks and sweeping valleys, provides a constant sense of awe.
Beyond the main viewpoint, the area offers opportunities for short walks and exploration. You might even spot rock climbers scaling the nearby formations, adding an element of adventure to the scenery.
Navigating Parking and Access
For those without a National Trust membership, there is a fee for parking, typically around £5 for two hours.
This fee contributes to the upkeep of the area. If the main car park is full, finding alternative parking nearby can be difficult, so planning your visit during off-peak times or weekdays is highly recommended. While the walk from the car park to the main viewpoint is short and relatively easy, it's worth noting that the terrain is not suitable for pushchairs.
The Magic of Surprise View in Different Conditions
During autumn, the area is renowned for its beautiful colors, with the landscape painted in warm hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Even on clear nights, Surprise View is a hidden gem. Far from city lights, it provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Visitors have reported enjoying the clear night sky and the visible stars from this vantage point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit