National Trust - Bowder Stone

Bowder Stone is a huge boulder in the Lake District National Park, near Grange and Keswick. A short path through woodland leads from the car park to metal steps on the rock, which you can climb for views of the surrounding mountains. The stone became a tourist attraction in the Georgian period, and the walk can be extended to the River Derwent. It suits families looking for a brief outdoor stop, though the space at the top is limited, so you may need to take turns.

The stone and its early visitors

The Bowder Stone became a tourist attraction in the Georgian period. In 1798, Joseph Pocklington established it as a visitor stop and had a ladder built so people could climb onto the rock. Mary Thompson, who lived in a nearby cottage, also showed visitors around for a fee.

How the boulder arrived at its present position is still uncertain. It has been linked to glacial movement and to a rockfall from Bowder Crag above.

A short walk and a climb

The path from the car park is about 450 metres each way, through woodland and across marked paths. Metal steps lead up the boulder, but the climb is steep and the standing area at the top is small. Mountain views are the reward for making the ascent.

Paths continue downhill towards the River Derwent. To reach the riverside route, you cross a road with blind corners and fast-moving cars, so take care. The car park has several levels and picnic tables. Parking is free for National Trust members; other visitors pay, and the machine takes cash only.