Styhead Tarn

Styhead Tarn lies in the English Lake District, close to the summit of Sty Head pass where Borrowdale begins. It sits on the main walking route from Wasdale to Borrowdale and is also crossed by those climbing Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route. The tarn is a popular stopping point for walkers in the area. Fishing is allowed, and wild brown trout live in its waters. Its outflow, Styhead Gill, feeds the River Derwent further down the valley. The tarn supports several aquatic plants, including intermediate water-starwort, quillwort, shoreweed, floating bur-reed and awlwort. It forms part of the Scafell Pikes Site of Special Scientific Interest. Records suggest it may hold the English record for the highest monthly rainfall, with about 1430 mm measured in November 2009. The surrounding fells and passes shape the landscape around the water. The area is well known to experienced hill walkers. Visitors find a small upland lake surrounded by steep slopes and rocky ground. The water is clear and calm, reflecting the sky above. Walkers often pause here to rest or admire the view of Scafell Pike. The outlet stream runs swiftly down the valley towards Borrowdale. The tarn’s plant life adds colour and detail to the scene. The air is fresh and carries the scent of damp earth and grass.