Top 6 Lakes around Hawes
Best lakes around Hawes are found in Upper Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, an area known for its scenic waterfalls and the River Ure. Hawes, a market town, serves as a base for exploring the surrounding natural landscape. The region features Semer Water, the largest natural lake in the Yorkshire Dales, alongside various tarns. These bodies of water contribute to the area's character, offering diverse natural features.
Best lakes around Hawes
- The most popular lakes is Semer Water, a natural monument…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Semer Water
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Greensett Moss Tarn
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Paradise Tarn
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Fossdale Moss Tarn
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Widdale Great Tarn
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Tips from the Community
Great views and the water looks very refreshing to go in, but I wouldn't recommend it
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This tarn is not called Greenest Moss as mentioned above but Greensett Moss. It is in a boggy area and therefore not really accessible or suitable for a swim.
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Nice bit of the wet stuff to break up the mountainside.
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The short detour downhill from Great Knoutberry Hill is well worth the out-and-back effort to see this seemingly remote from anywhere tarn. It is a magical place in any weather, it seems quite a mystical place when the clouds are in and the visibility is not so good. The short detour downhill from Great Knoutberry Hill is well worth the out-and-back effort to see this seemingly remote from anywhere tarn. It is a magical place in any weather, it seems quite a mystical place when the clouds are in and the visibility is not so good.
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The result of trapped snow and ice from the ice age created this boggy area with its tarn, which is called Greenest Moss
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It's worth making a detour from Great Knoutberry Hill - not far - to see this tarn. Bleak, isolated, peaceful - this large body of water feels miles and miles away from everything else. If you like being alone, in silence, this is definitely the place, and it's also a great place to stop, refresh and recharge before, likely, another few miles of a brisk hike.
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On OS Maps, this tarn is actually unnamed but a place next to it is called Paradise, hence the name "Paradise tarn". It's a lovely little tarn, with an island of sorts in the middle; quite picturesque, and the paths go very usefully around it, so you will be able to appreciate it from different angles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest natural lake near Hawes?
The largest natural lake in the Yorkshire Dales, and a significant feature near Hawes, is Semer Water. It is the second largest natural lake in England, measuring half a mile long, and is known for its beautiful natural setting.
Are there family-friendly lakes to visit around Hawes?
Yes, Paradise Tarn is specifically noted as family-friendly, featuring an island and paths that allow for appreciation from different angles. Semer Water also offers activities like canoeing and fishing, which can be enjoyed by families.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes near Hawes?
Semer Water is a popular location for wild swimming, as well as other water sports like canoeing, sailing, and windsurfing. However, other tarns like Greensett Moss Tarn are in boggy areas and not suitable for swimming.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and tarns around Hawes offer diverse natural features. You'll find glacial lakes like Semer Water, boggy areas surrounding tarns such as Greensett Moss Tarn, and remote, peaceful settings at places like Widdale Great Tarn. The area is also known for its waterfalls and the River Ure.
Are there any challenging lakes or tarns for experienced hikers?
Greensett Moss Tarn is described as a challenging lake located in a boggy area, formed by trapped snow and ice from the Ice Age. Its remote and less accessible nature makes it more suited for experienced hikers.
Where can I find parking when visiting lakes near Hawes?
For Semer Water, there is a car park located on its northern bank, which serves as a good starting point for exploring the lake. Permits for using the lake can also be obtained from the nearby farm.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Besides enjoying the lakes themselves for activities like canoeing, fishing, and wild swimming at Semer Water, the region offers extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. You can find various routes, from easy hikes to challenging trails, around Hawes. Explore options like easy hikes, general hiking routes, and MTB trails in the area.
Are there any remote or hidden gem lakes worth visiting?
Yes, Widdale Great Tarn is described as bleak, isolated, and peaceful, offering a sense of being miles away from everything. Similarly, Fossdale Moss Tarn is in a remote area with extensive views, making it a stunning, quiet spot.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Hawes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for water activities and walking, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Even in winter, the remote tarns like Widdale Great Tarn can offer a magical, mystical experience, especially when clouds are low.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Hawes?
Visitors appreciate the serene and picturesque settings, the opportunities for various recreational activities like canoeing and fishing at Semer Water, and the sense of peace and solitude offered by more remote tarns such as Widdale Great Tarn. The diverse natural landscapes, from large lakes to boggy tarns, are also highly valued.
Are there any circular walks around the lakes?
While specific circular walks around every tarn are not detailed, permissive paths around Semer Water are ideal for leisurely walks. Paradise Tarn also has paths that go around it, allowing you to appreciate it from different angles.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes near Hawes?
The Yorkshire Dales generally welcome dogs on leads, especially on public footpaths. While specific dog-friendly details for each lake are not provided, Semer Water and its surrounding paths are popular for walks, making it likely suitable for dogs on leads. Always be mindful of livestock and local regulations.
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