Description

An out-and-back route from the typically charming Lake District village of Stonethwaite, this is a great hike which is best done on a really hot day when a swim at Black Moss Pot won't feel too brutal! Stonethwaite is only small and parking is limited so be respectful and park a little further away if needs be.

Stonethwaite itself is a picturesque village with traditional stone buildings and a charming country pub, the Langstrath Country Inn, which serves food and drinks. The stroll to Black Moss Pot is wonderful and you'll pass under the impressive rocky buttresses of Eagle Crag as you make your way up the valley.

This is a much less visited area of the Lake District than the popular honeypots so you should be able to enjoy some solitude. When you get to Black Moss Pot it looks pretty appealing but it's important to note that swimming in Black Moss Pot can be dangerous, especially if you are not an experienced swimmer or if the water levels are high.

There have been cases of accidents in the past, so it's important to take caution and follow safety guidelines if you decide to swim or participate in water activities there.

It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and the conditions of the water before going swimming.

Needless to say the water temperature - even in the height of summer - is pretty low! Suitably "refreshed" from your swim, change into some warm clothing and enjoy the walk back out of the valley and back to the slate roofed pubs of Stonethwaite.