Bowder Stone: The Majestic Glacial Boulder of Borrowdale
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
The Bowder Stone is a colossal andesite lava boulder weighing around 2,000 tons, located in Borrowdale near Keswick in England’s Lake District. This natural marvel, formed by a rockfall approximately 10,000 years ago, balances precariously on its edge and offers visitors a unique climbing experience via a metal ladder. Steeped in Norse mythology and local history, the site combines geological wonder with cultural heritage in a stunning glacial valley setting.
A brief summary to Bowder Stone
- Keswick, Grange, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Use the metal ladder to safely climb to the top of the Bowder Stone for spectacular views of Borrowdale.
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the path and climbing ladder can be slippery, especially in wet weather.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Borrowdale valley to explore the glacial landscape.
- National Trust members can park for free at the nearby car park, enhancing convenience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the 77, 77a, or 78 bus lines from Keswick to the National Trust Bowder Stone stop; the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Services run regularly but check schedules as frequency varies seasonally. A single fare costs around £3-£5.
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Car
Drive to the National Trust Bowder Stone car park near Grange, Keswick, about 15-20 minutes from Keswick town center. Parking fees apply for non-members, typically £5-£7 per day. The walk from the car park to the stone is an easy 10-minute stroll on a well-maintained path.
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Walking
For those staying locally in Borrowdale or Keswick, a scenic 30-60 minute walk is possible along marked trails with moderate terrain. Suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for wheelchair users due to uneven ground.
Bowder Stone location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bowder Stone
Origins and Geological Significance
The Bowder Stone is a massive andesite lava boulder, estimated to weigh about 2,000 tons. It fell roughly 200 metres from the Bowder Crag on Kings How between 13,500 and 10,000 years ago, likely as a result of a rockfall triggered by glacial retreat at the end of the last Ice Age. This glacial erratic now rests balanced on its edge, a testament to the powerful natural forces that shaped the Borrowdale valley. Its immense size—approximately 30 feet high and across, with a circumference of 90 feet—makes it one of the largest freestanding boulders in the Lake District.Mythological and Cultural Connections
The name 'Bowder' is believed to derive from Baldr, the Norse god and son of Odin, whose story is entwined with themes of death and rebirth. Local lore suggests one side of the stone resembles Baldr’s face, complete with a small hole once thought to mark the spot where he was pierced by a mistletoe spear. This connection reflects the Norse heritage of the area, brought by settlers and miners centuries ago. The stone’s cultural significance was further enhanced in the late 18th century when Joseph Pocklington purchased the site and developed it into one of the Lake District’s first paid tourist attractions.Human Interaction and Preservation
Joseph Pocklington’s efforts around 1798 included clearing smaller rocks, erecting a fence, and building Bowder Stone Cottage to house guides. He also installed a ladder for visitors to climb the stone and constructed a hermitage as a Christian counterpoint to the ancient standing stone nearby. A notable feature is a hollow beneath the stone with a drilled hole, allowing visitors to crawl through and shake hands with others on the opposite side, a quirky tradition that added to its allure. After Pocklington’s death in 1817, the site remained popular through the Victorian era, with guides—primarily women—leading visitors and providing refreshments.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Today, the Bowder Stone remains a captivating natural attraction. Visitors can climb the stone using a modern metal ladder installed in 2019, which maintains the feel of the original wooden one while meeting safety standards. The site is accessible via a gentle 10-minute walk from the National Trust car park or local bus stops. The surrounding Borrowdale valley offers a scenic backdrop of glacially carved landscapes, enhancing the visitor experience. The stone’s dramatic presence and the opportunity to climb it make it a memorable highlight for hikers, climbers, geology enthusiasts, and photographers alike.Natural Setting and Conservation
Set within the protected Borrowdale valley, the Bowder Stone is managed by the National Trust, which acquired the site in the early 20th century to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. The area’s rugged terrain, shaped by glaciers, features diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the stone’s tranquil and scenic atmosphere. Conservation efforts ensure that this geological wonder remains intact for future generations, preventing development that could threaten its environment.Legacy and Cultural Imprint
The Bowder Stone has inspired poets and artists over centuries, including John Ruskin and William Wordsworth, who celebrated its imposing form and mysterious origins. It stands as both a natural monument and a symbol of the Lake District’s rich blend of geology, mythology, and human history. Souvenirs such as Mauchline ware featuring the Bowder Stone image reflect its enduring place in local culture and tourism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Bridge House
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Eskdale Mill
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Ambleside Roman Fort
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Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
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National Trust - Wordsworth House and Garden
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National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
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Brockhole on Windermere
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Latterbarrow
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National Trust - Townend
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Holehird Gardens
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Windermere and Troutbeck
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Queen Adelaide's Hill
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lodore Falls
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Surprise View
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Goldscope Mine
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Catbells
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Ashness Bridge
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Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Galleny Force Waterfall
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Discover the enchanting Galleny Force Waterfall, a tranquil mossy gorge with crystal-clear pools nestled in Borrowdale Valley’s stunning natural landscape.
Newlands Valley
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Honister Slate Mine
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Brandlehow Park
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Derwentwater
4.4 km
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Friars Crag
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Moss Force Waterfall
6.2 km
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Hope Park
6.7 km
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Keswick Alhambra Cinema
7.0 km
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Keswick Methodist Church
7.1 km
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Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
9.1 km
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New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
10.7 km
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Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
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The Jumble Room
12.1 km
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The Inn on the Lake
13.3 km
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Stove Restaurant & Bar
13.4 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
16.7 km
A relaxed bistro-bar nestled in Bassenthwaite’s scenic Croft Holiday Park, serving fresh pizzas and light fare with countryside views.
Dodds Restaurant
17.0 km
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The Priest Hole Restaurant
17.1 km
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Lucy's on a plate
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The Old Stamp House Restaurant
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Lake Road Kitchen
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Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
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Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
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The Samling Hotel
19.0 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
7.0 km
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Love the Lakes Keswick
7.1 km
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Alternative
7.1 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
7.1 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Booths, Keswick
7.2 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
RockShop
17.0 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
The Barn
23.2 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
Booths, Windermere
23.9 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
24.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
24.4 km
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Pretty Things
24.5 km
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Tesco Express
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Herdy Bowness
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Mountain Warehouse
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World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Wainwrights' Inn
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Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
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The Talbot Bar
15.7 km
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Golden Rule
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The Vault
17.2 km
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The Lily Bar
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Castle Bar
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Queens Head, Troutbeck
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Lake District Cocktail Co.
21.4 km
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The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
23.1 km
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The Windermere Speakeasy
23.8 km
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The Crafty Baa Windermere
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Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
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The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
24.1 km
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Wheelhouse Nightclub
24.5 km
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The loose moose
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Secret Carlisle
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Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
42.0 km
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Carlisle R A O B Club
42.2 km
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Black Box Music Institute
42.2 km
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secret bridge
42.8 km
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The Lounge C9
47.3 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
47.3 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
47.4 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Moorcock Inn
59.2 km
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The Five Arches
64.9 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
Railway Social Club
65.7 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Dickies Bar
65.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Dickies Bar in Dumfries, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
