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A Guide to Birdwatching in the Lakes

By Faith Lingle

5th February 2024

Daffodil | lake district birds ?? Daffodil

Welcome to the enchanting world of Lake District birds, where the air is filled with the tweets and caws of feathered locals. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the Lake District offers a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.From the slender beauty of mute swans on tranquil waters to the agile dives of ospreys seeking their aquatic prey, this guide will lead you to the ideal spots to witness the best of birdlife.

WHERE TO FIND LAKE DISTRICT BIRDS

LAKE WINDERMERE

Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in the Lake District National Park, is home to a variety of bird species. The lakeside habitat and surrounding woodlands provide diverse ecosystems for both waterfowl and land-based birds.One of the iconic sights is the elegant mute swans gliding gracefully on the lake’s surface. As you walk along the shores, you’re likely to encounter mallards in the shallows and charming families of cygnets and ducklings.
The distinctive ospreys also appear during the warmer months, showcasing incredible fishing skills as they plunge into the waters to catch their prey. Keep your eyes peeled for the white-throated dippers, great-crested grebes, pochards, and tufted ducks.

GRIZEDALE FOREST

If you want to see some birds of prey on your Lake District trip, head to Grizedale Forest, east of Coniston Water. One of the forest’s most regal inhabitants is the buzzard. With broad wings and a distinctive mewing call, these majestic birds can often be seen effortlessly soaring above the treetops, scanning the landscape for their next meal.Keep your eyes peeled for the sparrowhawk too, a stealthy hunter known for its agile flights through the woodland. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of their lightning-fast strikes as they pursue smaller birds through the canopy.
Autumn in Grizedale brings red kites. Look to the skies; you might spot them, recognisable by their forked tails and graceful soaring patterns.
Beyond birds of prey, you might also spot great spotted woodpeckers, tawny owls, hawfinches, grouse, and wood warblers.

DERWENT WATER

Amble along the shores of Derwent Water to see swans and mallards create ripples on the lake’s surface.During the warmer months, Derwent Water comes alive with the energetic flights of house martins. You’ll know you’ve stumbled across these playful creatures if you can see their distinctive white rumps.
The woodlands surrounding Derwent Water also host a range of songbirds. The blackbird serenades passers-by, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Eurasian nuthatch darting through the trees. Spring and summer are prime seasons for listening to birdsong in the woods.
Along with an abundance of birdlife, the Lake District is home to the largest population of red squirrels in England, as well as red and roe deer.

HAWESWATER NATURE RESERVE

The expansive landscapes of Haweswater Nature Reserve, including woodlands, wetlands, and open water, create an ideal habitat for various wild birds. The striking common loon, known for its eerie yodel-like sounds, is a captivating presence on the open waters of Haweswater. If you’re patient and observant, you might also catch a glimpse of the elusive osprey.As spring arrives, the monochrome pied flycatchers grace the woodlands surrounding Haweswater. Their striking black-and-white plumage and agile flights make them a joy to observe as they flit through the trees, expertly catching insects on the wing.
Venture along the trails of the reserve, and you may also encounter the haunting calls of the common loon echoing across the open waters. These elegant birds add a touch of wild mystique to the serene surroundings of Haweswater.

TARN HOWS

The tranquil waters of Tarn Hows attract a variety of waterfowl, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatching. Keep your eyes peeled for the elegant mallard and the majestic mute swan. You might spot the elusive common kingfisher, a jewel-like bird with vibrant blue and orange plumage darting near the water’s edge if you’re lucky.All year round, you’ll be able to spot the famous Canada goose as well as coots, cormorants, and mergansers sheltering in the reed beds or swimming across the water. In winter, the population more than doubles as birds fly in from their breeding grounds in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.

BASSENTHWAITE LAKE

Bassenthwaite Lake, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. One of the most iconic residents is the osprey. Spring and summer are optimal times for osprey sightings as they return to their nesting sites around the lake.The waters also host a variety of gulls, including the herring gull and the lesser black-backed gull. Keep an eye out for the striking great-crested grebe, especially during the breeding season when their elaborate courtship displays unfold.

UNWIND AFTER A DAY OF BIRD WATCHING WITH THE DAFFODIL HOTEL & SPA

After a day of birdwatching in the Lake District, there’s no better way to unwind than indulging in the luxury of Grasmere’s Daffodil Hotel & Spa.Take advantage of our on-site spa, indulge in a soothing massage or unwind in our luxurious sauna and steam rooms; all the perfect pick-me-ups after a day spent out in the Lakes.
There’s no better way to end the evening than with a memorable dining experience at our exquisite restaurant. Our talented chefs showcase the finest locally sourced ingredients to create delectable dishes that satisfy your appetite and replenish your energy. As the night settles in, head to our inviting lobby bar to unwind with a cocktail, a glass of fine wine, or a local beer.