The Lake District National Park is renowned — not just nationally, but worldwide — for its breathtaking landscapes and charming villages, drawing visitors from across the globe. While popular destinations like Ambleside and Windermere often take centre stage, a growing trend sees travellers seeking out more secluded spots. With thousands of social media posts dedicated to “hidden gems”, the appeal of discovering an untouched treasure is undeniable.
That’s why a travel expert is shining a spotlight on a true treasure that’s nestled amidst the more frequented areas but offers a quieter, more authentic experience of this iconic British landscape. It’s a peaceful base for those wishing to explore and remains somewhat off the beaten path, making it an appealing alternative for a “tranquil” escape.
It is just a seven-minute drive away from the ever-popular Ambleside and seventeen minutes from Grasmere.
This understated spot, Skelwith Bridge, is described on TikTok as having “stunning views” and even pictures and videos shared online show that.
Jerry Rebbeck, a local expert from Wheelwrights Holiday Cottages, explained that “the village of Skelwith Bridge is smaller and quieter than neighbouring villages, home to only 150 people”.
This makes it “a tranquil place to stay as a base for exploring the national park; with access to the fells, river walks and lakes beyond, or great to visit when staying elsewhere.”
The village’s charm extends to its natural surroundings, with the travel specialist sharing that “it gets its name – unsurprisingly – from a stone bridge which makes its way across the River Brathway, which is lovely for walks of all kinds, filled with the best of British wildlife such as otters, kingfishers, grey herons and various species of fish.”
A four-minute walk along the river leads to Skelwith Force, a sixteen-foot waterfall, which Jerry notes is “lesser known than the other more dramatic waterfalls in the area… it’s a small but charming natural beauty, and adds to Skelwith Bridge’s status as a UK hidden gem.”
Further upstream, the serene Elter Water Lake has an “easy, scenic walk with well-maintained paths” surrounding it.
For those interested in the area’s industrial past, Cathedral Cave, a network of interconnecting caves, is also nearby and can be explored as part of a 4.7 km circular trail near Coniston, Cumbria.
Jerry concluded: “It’s off the beaten track and yet close to an abundance of landmarks and beautiful scenery, giving you the best of both worlds for resting and exploring the Lakes.”