What does 'mere' actually mean?

In Old English, 'mere' meant a lake, pool or body of standing water. It did not specifically mean broad and shallow, so Windermere's 64-metre depth does not make the name inaccurate.

Can you walk all the way around Windermere?

The established Windermere Way is about 45 miles and normally takes several days. It is not a National Trail or a continuous shoreline path, so use current route and ferry information.

Which fell gives good views of Windermere?

Orrest Head is a shorter option, with a typical return taking around an hour. Gummer's How is also short but has steep and rocky sections; allow one to two hours and plan for weather and ground conditions.

When is a Lake District Lake Not A Lake

Why Windermere Is a Lake (And What a Mere Actually Means)

Old English 'mere' meant a lake, pool or standing water, not specifically something broad and shallow. Windermere is therefore both a mere and a lake; its name probably means 'Vinandr's lake'.

8 August 20268 min read