The Bowder Stone in the Borrowdale valley near Keswick is one of the most famous rocks in the Lake District. It weighs 2000 tonnes, is 30 feet high, 30 feet across and 90 feet in circumference and it balances all by itself. A new metal ladder replaced the wooden ladder in 2019. The aim was to create the feel of the original ladder whilst conforming to current safety standards.
It is local rock, part of the Borrowdale volcanic succession of rocks. There is compelling evidence that it came down as part of a rock fall dislodged from the Bowder Stone 200 metres above after the Borrowdale glacier retreated.
It may get its name from Balder, son of the Norse God Odin. There’s a fixed ladder which you can use to climb to the top.
Location
You’ll find it a gentle ten minute stroll either from the National Trust Bowder Stone car park (CA12 5XA, what3words ///official.campus.jubilant) on the B5289 Keswick to Borrowdale Road. or from the bus stop (77/77a or 78).
National Trust members can park for free,
