Today we had a great day walking in the Haweswater valley situated in the North East corner of the Lake District.
- Haweswater
The village of Mardale used to be in this valley. However the Manchester Corporation decided to flood the valley to make a reservoir and in 1941 the dam was completed and the valley flooded.
- Haweswater dam being built 1937
The result was the loss of the village with its hotel the Dun Bull, its church, school and many farms in the valley.
- Dun Bull Hotel, Mardale
This valley now offers the walker a great place to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the crowds. As you walk over the bracken covered slopes you may come across fell ponies or one of the herds of shy red deer.
- Fell Ponies, Haweswater
There are also relics from long ago, such as standing stones.
- Standing Stones
There are waterfalls, tarns and ridges to explore all with stunning views. High above the valley you may be fortunate enough to spot the golden eagle flying around the Highstreet Ridge. This famous Wainwright peak is the site of a Roman road as well as the historic meeting point for the farmers of Mardale for the shepherds meet and races, where stray sheep were exchanged and ponies raced.
- View of the fells from the old village of Mardale
In the summer when water levels are low it is possible to see the remains of the old village above the water. So why not discover the history of this valley on a tour or explore the mountains, tarns and small valleys off Haweswater with a guide? This surely must be one of the quietest places to walk and enjoy some fascinating history.
- Looking down on Haweswater dam
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