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Castlerigg stone circle

Top 8 locations for painting in the Lake District

The Lake District National Park has inspired artists throughout history, including Turner, Ruskin and Burne-Jones. Here are some recommendations of great views to sketch or paint, from our former ranger, Sue Thompson, including some sketches and pictures of her own.

  • 1. Packhorse bridge, Wasdale Head:

    Sketch of Packhorse Bridge at Wasdale Head copyright Sue Thompson

    There are also classic views of Gable, Scafell and Yewbarrow on road to Wasdale Head.

    Location: ///rather.disarmed.sweat

  • 2. Ravenglass, Town End:

    Sketch of Ravenglass copyright Sue Thompson

    Ravenglass has loads of potential for sketching of boats, the estuary and the village. Also nearby Eskdale has the picturesque steam railway La’al Ratty.

    Location: ///victor.sculpting.stale

  • 3. St Catherine’s Church, Boot:

    Sketch of St Catherines Church at Boot copyright Sue Thompson

    There is also a very scenic river and Stanley Ghyll waterfall close by.

    Location: ///draining.teach.spearing

  • 4. Castlerigg Stone Circle, Keswick:

    Watercolour of Castlerigg Stone Circle copyright Sue Thompson

    Location: ///phones.captions.overlaps

  • 5. Rather Heath Tarn near Kendal:

    Sketch of Rather Heath Tarn copyright Sue Thompson

    This is a delightfully tucked away fishing tarn.

    Location: ///unpacked.hamster.postcard

  • 6. High Street from Gatescarth Pass, Mardale side:

    Sketch of High Street copyright Sue Thompson

    Location: ///sheds.observer.slate

  • 7. Yew Tree Tarn, near Coniston:

    Yew Tree Tarn copyright Sue Thompson

    Also nearby Tarn Hows is a great place to sketch.

    Locations: ///cuddled.securing.bins

  • 8. Brockhole on Windermere

    Looking down over Brockhole house and the Mawson designed gardens with views over Windermere and the Langdales in the distance.

    The Mawson designed gardens are ideal for those who love trees and flowers. With views over Windermere to the Langdales, and the iconic facade of Brockhole House, there's something to inspire every artist.

    Location: ///booster.promising.founders