Visiting Ashness Bridge Keswick
If you are planning a visit to the Lake District, one of the must-see destinations is Ashness Bridge. This famous packhorse bridge is located near the town of Keswick and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Ashness Bridge is undoubtedly one of the most photographed bridges in the Lake District, and it’s not hard to see why. Located in the stunning Borrowdale Valley, the bridge is framed by the dramatic flanks of Skiddaw and the glimmering waters of Bassenthwaite in the distance, making it a favourite spot for many visitors.
As a packhorse bridge, Ashness Bridge is narrow and humped with low sides, which is why the road disappears when you drive over it. These bridges were designed to accommodate the caravans of pack horses that transported heavy loads.
The low parapets ensured that the animals wouldn’t get stuck if their loads were particularly wide. Some packhorse bridges, like Ashness Bridge, have no side walls. It is located in a peaceful and tranquil setting ideal for photography, walking, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Moreover, Ashness Bridge is conveniently located near other popular attractions, such as the Lodore Falls and the Surprise View, which offer visitors more opportunities to explore the area. The National Trust also manages the area around Ashness Bridge, ensuring its preservation and providing information to visitors about its history and significance.
Overall, the combination of natural beauty, history, and accessibility make Ashness Bridge a popular destination for visitors to the Lake District.
Getting to Ashness Bridge
By Keswick Launch: Visitors can take the Keswick Launch to Ashness Gate and enjoy a pleasant walk up the narrow lane. The walk from the jetty to the bridge takes approximately 20 minutes, and from there, visitors can take a short stroll further up to reach the breathtaking Surprise View.
By Bus: The Honister Rambler (summer only) or Seatoller (all year round) bus is available for those travelling by bus. Visitors can get off at the Derwentwater Youth Hostel stop, located a short distance from the end of the lane leading to Ashness Bridge.
By Car: Alternatively, you can drive to the area and park at the Ashness Bridge car park, which is located near Surprise View. The car park is operated by the National Trust and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Ashness Bridge Car Park
Ashness Bridge National Trust car park is a small but popular parking area with around 15 spaces available for visitors.
Visitors should note that the road leading up to the bridge is steep and narrow, with passing places available.
Visitors can use the postcode CA12 5UN, grid reference NY269196, or search for “Ashness Bridge National Trust car park” on Google Maps to find the car park.
As a popular destination, the car park can fill up quickly, so visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. The National Trust reminds visitors to drive cautiously on the narrow road leading to the car park.
The costs are as follows:
Free: Blue Badge Holders
Free: National Trust Members (display ticket)
£1 for 30-minutes
£2.50 for up to 1-hour
£5 for 2 hours
£7 for 4 hours
£8.50 all-day
Payment is available via pay-by-phone for convenience (8033511) or by coins in the machine. The car park fee helps rangers repair and maintain walls, fences and stiles!
History of Ashness Bridge
Ashness Bridge is a traditional stone-built packhorse bridge. The history of the bridge can be traced back to the 18th century when it was built as part of the local packhorse trade.
The bridge was used to transport goods across the stream, including wool, slate, and other materials essential to the local economy.
Over time, the packhorse trade declined, and Ashness Bridge became a popular destination for tourists and visitors to the Lake District. It gained fame as a picturesque and romantic location, and many famous artists and writers, including William Wordsworth and J.M.W. Turner, visited the area and depicted it in their works.
Today, Ashness Bridge is owned and managed by the National Trust, which has helped to preserve its historical and cultural significance.
Visiting Ashness Bridge
Once you arrive at Ashness Bridge, take the time to explore the area. The bridge is a popular spot for photography, and it is easy to see why.
The bridge spans a small stream and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
In Ashness Wood, visitors can take in the breathtaking surroundings and learn about the Atlantic Oakwood that once covered western England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
Ashness Wood is one of a few fragments of this English rainforest remaining in the valley, and the National Trust has worked with tenant farmers to exclude land below Falcon Crag to encourage new growth. In 50 years, the woods are expected to join with Great Wood to provide a continuous corridor for wildlife.
Alternatively, if you follow the path from the Ashness Bridge car park, you will reach Surprise View, which offers panoramic views of the Lake District.
7 Top Things to do at Ashness Bridge
For those visiting Ashness Bridge, here are some top things to do:
- Take the classic photo of Ashness Bridge to share with your friends and family.
- Drive or walk the short distance to Surprise View for an even more stunning valley vista.
- Walk the winding path below Falcon Crag to Great Wood, which spans 144 miles and offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the English countryside.
- Hike to the summit of Walla Crag, which is about 1.5 miles and provides a fantastic panoramic view of the valley.
- No matter what you choose to do, Ashness Bridge and the surrounding area are sure to delight and inspire visitors.
- Drive to Lodore Falls. The falls are a popular spot for hiking, and several trails offer stunning views of the falls and the surrounding countryside.
- Additionally, many other bridges in the Lake District are worth exploring, including the Ambleside Bridge House, one of the best things to see in Ambleside.
Top Tips
When visiting Ashness Bridge and the surrounding area, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear is essential.
The weather can change quickly in the Lake District, so it is always a good idea to bring warm clothing and rain gear. You can check the weather for Ashness Bridge BBC Keswick and Met Office Keswick.
Finally, be sure to respect the natural environment and take care not to damage any of the local flora or fauna and take all litter home with you.
Overall Thoughts
A visit to Ashness Bridge is an absolute must for anyone exploring the Lake District. This iconic packhorse bridge is a historical marvel and a stunning work of natural art. With its narrow and humped design, Ashness Bridge is a unique sight that should be experienced in person.
Whether you walk the winding path to Great Wood, take in the breathtaking view from Surprise View, or hike to the summit of Walla Crag, you are sure to find something to love in this area. And, of course, a visit would be complete with taking the classic photo of Ashness Bridge!