LOCATION GUIDE: Photographing The Lake District

By Ross Hoddinott . Posted about 4 years ago.

Few places in the world combine breathtaking lakes, picturesque valleys, lush woodland, soaring mountains and rugged coastline all neatly compressed into one region.
Fondly known as the ‘Lakes’ or ‘Lakeland’, The Lake District is one of the most picturesque places in the world – it is no surprise that it became a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. This mountainous region contains England’s highest mountain – in fact, all land in England higher than 3,000ft (914m) above sea-level is found within the Lake District’s boundaries. The park is also home to England’s deepest and largest natural lakes – Wastwater and Windermere, respectively.

Its outstanding natural beauty has inspired artists, writers and poets for centuries, including William Wordsworth, John Ruskin and Beatrix Potter, and is a photographer’s paradise. It is home to so many photogenic locations and iconic viewpoints, that you could visit time and again and still only scratch the surface of its undoubted picture potential. No self-respecting landscape photographer can surely resist its scenery and delights. With so many places to explore, it is difficult to know exactly where to begin! But here are five popular and lesser-known locations that should definitely be on your must-shoot list come your next visit:

Ashness Jetty/Derwent Water

One of the most iconic and photographed jetties in the Lakes but still well worth shooting. There is parking close by and this is a good sunset option. Just be aware you are likely to bump into other photographers here, so arrive early and set up your tripod to secure your spot!

Ashness Jetty-Ross Hoddinott

Lodore Falls/Grid ref:NY 267 195

Woods and waterfalls are great options on damp or windy days. Lodore Falls is found on the B5289 between Keswick and Borrowdale. It drops down 30m while cascading over a series of rocks. Use a polarising filter to saturate foliage colour and to help prolong exposure for creative effect.

Lodore Falls

High Brandlehow Launch/Derwent Water

This rustic jetty and highly photogenic is tucked away on the south west shore of Derwent Water. It is not obvious from the road and parking is limited nearby, which means you are far more likely to have the place to yourself when you visit. This is a good location for a dawn shoot.

Brandlehow Launch-Ross Hoddinott

Monk Coniston Jetty/Coniston Water

The unusual kink half-way along Monk Coniston jetty gives it a very different appearance to the other launches. There is parking close by and it is a short, easy walk to the launch. This is a great spot for an evening’s photography, particularly if it is still or the sky is moody.

Monk-Coniston-Ross Hoddinott

Stockghyll Force/Grid ref:NY 382 045

Park in Ambleside and follow the footpath signs to Stockghyll Force. There is a pretty weir and wooden footbridge on your walk to the waterfall that's worth shooting. Views of the main falls can be restricted, but persevere and you will return with some nice shots.

Stockghyll Force

Castlerigg Stone Circle/Grid ref:NY 291 236

This Neolithic stone circle is located high up to the east
of Keswick. From here, you can capture big, wide-angle vistas of the stone circle with the fells making an impressive backdrop. Visit early or late in the day when there are fewer tourists wandering around.
Castlerigg Stone Circle

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Ross Hoddinott co-runs Dawn 2 Dusk Photography, which specialises in landscape photography in the UK. Established for over ten years, Dawn 2 Dusk boasts a team of leading professional photographers, providing expert guidance and tuition on location. They run one-day and longer residential workshops and welcome beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Dawn 2 Dusk Photography visits some of the most photogenic locations in the UK, including the picturesque Lake District. For more information about their tutors and courses, please visit: www.dawn2duskphotography.co.uk or email: info@dawn2duskphotography.co.uk__