Elterwater and Langdale Valley
Elterwater, Cumbria
Elterwater village sits in the Great Langdale valley in the Lake District, a tarn and riverside walk that follows Great Langdale Beck through the lower valley before returning via Baysbrown Wood and Skelwith Bridge. It is an easy route with the Langdale Pikes as a backdrop throughout, well suited to a dog that does not need serious elevation.
There are sheep throughout the valley including on Elterwater’s village common, and the CRoW Act requires dogs on a short lead near livestock. Between 1 March and 31 July on open access land, a short lead is required during bird nesting season as well. In practice this walk is largely on-lead.
Great Langdale Beck has accessible swimming spots in the lower valley where it broadens and slows. Keep dogs on leads near Skelwith Force by Skelwith Bridge, where the falls drop into a fast gorge below. Several stiles on the route may require larger dogs to be lifted.
The valley car parks fill before 9am on summer weekends. The Britannia Inn in Elterwater village is one of the most reliably dog-friendly pubs in the Lake District, dogs welcome in the bar.
Frequently asked questions
Do CRoW Act rules mean my dog must be on a lead in Langdale?
Near livestock, yes - a physical lead under 2 metres is legally required. On open access land between 1 March and 31 July, dogs must also be on a short lead during the bird nesting season. Great Langdale has sheep throughout the valley including on the village common. In practice, your dog will need to be on a lead for significant portions of this walk.
Can my dog swim in Great Langdale Beck?
Yes, in the safer sections of the lower valley where the Beck is broader and shallower. Avoid the upper, faster-flowing sections after heavy rain. Keep dogs on leads near Skelwith Force (near Skelwith Bridge) where the falls drop into a fast gorge.
Who manages the walks around Elterwater?
The National Trust owns most of Great Langdale (approximately 12,170 acres) and manages the farms, footpaths, and car parks. The Lake District National Park Authority manages access rights and planning. The area is part of the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Are there stiles on this walk?
Yes. Several stiles on the route may require larger dogs to be lifted. Most have adjacent dog gates or gaps, but check the route description in advance if you have a large or elderly dog.
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info