Alcock Tarn



Alcock Tarn, known as Allcock Tarn, is a small body of water on a fairly level, but small shelf on the upper reaches of Heron Pike, high above the village and lake of Grasmere. It lies at an elevation of 365 metres (1,190ft) and has a depth of around 2 metres (6.5ft). It’s location gives a feeling of isolation; an open and somewhat featureless environment that affords expansive views across the valley to neighbouring fells. The ridge here is a fine example of areal scouring of the bedrock surface from the last glacial period; ice moving slowly over long periods of time, carving the many features we see today as tarns and pools.

Historically, the tarn has had several names. Ordnance Survey named it Allcock Tarn in 1899, but it has also been known as Grey Crag Tarn, and Butter Crag Tarn, due to it’s proximity to the nearby Crags of the same names. It is Grasmere resident, Mr Alcock of The Hollins, today known as Hollens Farm, who, during the late 19th century, built a small stone and earth dam, and stocked the tarn with brown trout. The tarn is larger today than it original size as a result of the dam.

Heron Pike is part of Wainwright's Eastern Fells, offering a lengthy walk along its spine via its parent peak, Great Rigg, all the way up to Grisedale Tarn. Another much smaller body of water, more like a pond, is Dockey Tarn, approximately 500 metres (1,640ft) south-east.

There are two main routes up to Alcock Tarn: from Dove Cottage to the south, and the historic Swan Inn from the northern end of Grasmere. A third route, being much longer, starts from Rydal Mount and ascends Nab Scar, perfect for the energetic with a penchant for steeper climbs. Walking time to the tarn will vary considerably based route taken, physical fitness, and how many photos you take on the way! Allow a minimum of an hour each way.

The fell side from Dove Cottage up to and including Alcock Tarn, a total of 69.41 acres (28.09 hectares), is owned by the, who acquired the land on 22 January, 1943.