Tarn Hows is not strictly a lake, but is one of the prettiest spots in the Lake District. It was artificially constructed by damming some marshes and joining some smaller bodies of water. The actual name is Highlow Tarn, but this is rarely used. Tarn Hows is the name of a local farm and means the hill by the lake. The shores are well wooded and the scene has a wonderful background of the Langdale Pikes, the Fairfield fells, Ill Bell and Wansfield.
A nearby viewpoint offers one of the most stunning views over Coniston Water and the surrounding hills. There are lovely walks around the shores of the lake. At one time the tarn was owned by Beatrix Potter, who eventually gave it to the National Trust.
