What is the biggest lake in England?

The largest lake in England is Windermere, covering 5.7 square miles (15 km²), while the largest lake in Wales is Llyn Tegid, at 1.9 square miles (4.8 km²).



Windermere is the largest lake in England by length, surface area, and total water volume. Located within the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, it is a "ribbon lake" formed in a glacial trough at the end of the last ice age. It measures approximately 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) in length and about 1 mile (1.6 km) at its widest point, with a maximum depth of 219 feet (67 meters). Windermere is so large that it contains 18 islands, the most famous being Belle Isle. While it is the largest in England, it is considerably smaller than the great lochs of Scotland (like Loch Lomond) or the loughs of Northern Ireland. The lake is a primary hub for tourism in the region, supporting a fleet of "steamer" passenger boats and being a major site for sailing and kayaking. Because of its size and status, it is often referred to as "The Queen of the Lakes." In 2026, environmental protection for Windermere remains a top priority for the National Trust and local authorities to ensure its deep, cold waters remain pristine amidst its popularity.

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