Thirlmere infinity pool walk and how to get there

If you’ve seen photos or videos of a crystal-clear infinity pool tucked into the Lake District hills, you might be wondering how to get there and see it for yourself. 

You’ve come to the right place for answers. 

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get to Thirlmere infinity pool. 

What is the Thirlmere infinity pool?

The Thirlmere infinity pool is a natural rock pool set in the fells above Thirlmere in the Lake District. Fed by a waterfall, the water spills smoothly over the edge of the rock, creating a striking “infinity” effect as it drops down the hillside.

The pool is becoming increasingly popular for its dramatic, wild setting and wide views across the valley and over Thirlmere. 

Where is the Thirlmere infinity pool?

The pool sits above the western side of Thirlmere in the central Lake District.

It’s not a formally signposted attraction, which is part of its appeal. You won’t find visitor facilities or marked trails leading directly to it, just open fell paths and natural terrain.

How to get to Thirlmere infinity pool: Map, postcode, and directions

Here’s a Thirlmere infinity pool map to show you where the falls are:

There’s no official “Thirlmere infinity pool postcode”, but most visitors start from a nearby lay-by along the A591:

Follow these Thirlmere infinity pool directions to get to the parking layby: 

• From the North, follow the A591 south towards Thirlmere. Just after passing through Legburthwaite. As you approach the north of Thirlmere, keep an eye out for Stybeck Farm. The parking spot is just before the farm on your left-hand side. 

• From the South, follow the A591 north towards Thirlmere. Keep driving all the way to the north of the lake. After you pass the Kings Head Inn, keep an eye out for the layby coming up on your right – this is the parking spot. 

There aren’t many parking spaces, so they fill very quickly. If the layby is full, you could also park in Legburthwaite Car Park, which is just off the A591 along Back Lane. Parking here makes the walk a bit longer, so bear that in mind! 

The Thirlmere infinity pool walk

The Thirlmere infinity pool walk is only 1.5km long. However, it does get steep! You gain around 180m of elevation over this distance. 

We know that 180m doesn’t sound like a lot of elevation, but it’s mostly within the last 0.25km of the walk. It’s definitely a leg-burner to get to the top, but the views and the waterfall definitely make it worthwhile! 

FAQs about Thirlmere infinity pool 

Is the Thirlmere infinity pool safe?

Thirlmere’s infinity pool is a natural, wild swimming spot, so there’s always an element of risk. 

It’s generally considered safe for swimmers who take sensible precautions, like wearing the right footwear and bringing warm clothing for after the swim. It’s not recommended for inexperienced outdoor swimmers or children without close supervision.

The rocks can be slippery (especially after rain) and water levels and currents change depending on the weather. If you do go, wear proper footwear for grip, check conditions beforehand (like whether it might rain and what the air temperature is), and avoid swimming alone. 

Prepare for the cold as well by taking warm layers to put on after a dip. Because the infinity pool is a waterfall (so the water is constantly moving), temperatures are lower than the still lakes in the valley – even in summer. 

When is the best time to visit the Thirlmere infinity pools?

It’s best to arrive early in the morning or visit during quieter times (like mid-week or outside of school holidays). The infinity pools have become more popular over the last few years, so weekends and sunny afternoons can get busy. 

As you can imagine, this diminishes the peaceful feel and makes parking more difficult.

Stay in a cosy cottage in the Lake District to visit Thirlmere infinity pool 

A nearby cosy Lake District cottage is the perfect base for visiting the Thirlmere infinity pool. If you stay in a Coppermines Cottage in the Langdale Valley, you’re only a 30 minute drive to the parking spot. 

Staying in a cottage in the heart of the Lake District means you’re also in a good spot to explore other walks and swimming spots in the area. You can explore more of the national park without rushing or making long drives each day.