Mark Gilligan FBIPP

4. ELTERWATER AND THE RIVER BRATHAY

It is fair to say that I spend a lot of time in this ‘neck of the woods’ as it affords me so many areas to go and visit. I use it as a base because from here, (just outside Ambleside) the Langdales, Blea Tarn and Coniston are all close by. That’s not just for ‘me and the camera’ but I visit with my landscape photography workshops. It really is a rich source of photographic opportunity from classic landscapes to ‘intimate's’ and those of you who also shoot wildlife are not ignored as Deer can often be seen.

Many will say, ‘it’s a tourist hotspot’ and they are right but it is very easy to co exist here. Sense prevails and I would avoid the weekends if you can and the height of summer BUT as you are looking over the water and from the banks of the river, people will not be a problem….well, they shouldn’t be….

Some locations are better in a specific season but this one delivers all year around.

I have never had an issue obtaining photographs that not only please me but those who take their own on my workshops. The four seasons do not disappoint and with this being a low level location, access is usually easy.

There are two ways by which most arrive here; either via Skelwith Fold or from the village of Elterwater itself. My own preference is via the former. Parking is an issue as it is throughout the lakes and places that used to be good are now being ‘eaten up’ by ‘ANPR’ and ‘ring’ apps.’ The latter being ironic and tenuous as phone signals are scarce…..Without being condescending, please read up on social media about the local restrictions and available places as they are evolving all the time.

Irrespective, this place has now become a ‘must do’ for landscape photographers, especially those who are visiting the area for the first time and it is not unusual on a dawn shoot, to see tripods lining the banks of the river all the way to Elterwater.

Now, do not let that put you off as there is plenty of room for us all.

Those who know me, are aware that I like to explore the history of an area, not just the facts but also anything unusual about it? Something that makes it worthy of your time? I have my own YouTube channel ‘MovingStills’ and I made a sixteen minute programme specifically about this location because I find it fascinating. It will give you a flavour of what to experience and you can watch it here.

All that remains for me to say is just go along and enjoy what it has to offer.

*Clicking on the title of the photographs above will take you to my online shop*