River Lowther

The River Lowther winds through limestone rock in Cumbria, starting near the village of Keld where the Keld Gill and Keld Dub meet. It flows north-west past Bampton and Bampton Grange before turning north to join the River Eamont close to Penrith. The river supplies the main spawning area for Eden spring salmon and serves as a trout fishery. A dam at Wet Sleddale keeps its flow steady, mostly between 0.33 m and 1.8 m. The highest recorded level reached 2.93 m at Eamont Bridge in December 2015. Its name appears in records from about 1175 as Lauder, possibly from Brittonic lǭwadr meaning ‘a washing or bathing place’. Another theory links it to Old Norse lauðr + á, translating as ‘foamy river’. The river passes several settlements including Rosgill, Askham and Lowther on its route. Nearby sights include Keld Chapel, Shap Abbey and Lowther Castle with its surrounding parkland. Walkers can follow paths along the riverbank or explore nearby woodlands such as Yarnwath Woods. Ancient sites like King Arthur’s Round Table Henge and Mayburgh Henge stand close to Eamont Bridge. Roman remains at Brocavum and the ruins of Brougham Castle add to the area’s historic interest. The landscape offers quiet spots for fishing or simply watching the water flow over the limestone.