320 ^uttetmere district* 



Before descending to Ennerdale Bridge, the outline of 

 the Scotch mountains may sometimes be seen. Few travel- 

 lers see more of this lake than in passing ; but it deserves 

 more attention than is generally bestowed upon it, being 

 exceedingly wild, though it is not possessed of the solem- 

 nity of Wastwater. It has a curious little island, com- 

 posed entirely of stones, so much alike in size and shape as 

 to lead to the enquiry whether they can have been brought 

 there for building purposes. One glance down into the clear 

 water, where they may be seen to a great depth, will show 

 that such is not the case, there being too vast a quantity to 

 admit of the supposition. The southern side of the lake is 

 closed in by Crag Fell, Revelin, and Iron Crag. As seen 

 from the water. Crag Fell has the appearance of being 

 crowned with a fort. Herdhouse and Red Pike form the 

 northern boundary. The lake has its traditions, as well as 

 several wild tales of the adventures and escapes of pede- 

 strians who have explored the mountains in its neighbour- 

 hood. It is said that a gentleman once lived at How Hall, 

 a house not far from the inn, who dealt in the black art ; 

 and some of his doings are still related. On one occasion 

 he was with a party of friends in a boat on the lake, when 

 remarking that it was time for him to leave' them, he plunged 

 headlong into the water. The friends waited and searched 

 for him in vain, and at length returned home believing him 

 to be drowned, when, to their amazement, they found him 

 sitting dry and snug by his own fireside. 



The Angler's Inn, at Ennerdale, is as clean and comfort- 

 able as it is homely, and in it we have fared well. After 

 some luncheon, our travellers will be ready for a survey of 

 the lake and its surroundings. The storm-stricken boat- 

 landing, which is close to the inn, will give an idea of what 

 must sometimes be the state of the elements at this spot. 



