Windermere Boutique Hotel

This blog has moved

2010-04-30T00:53:00.001-07:00

This blog is now located at http://windermereboutique.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://windermereboutique.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

Places of interest in the Lake District

2010-03-16T09:00:00.001-07:00

Most visitors to the Lake District are familiar with Windermere, Grasmere, Coniston and the larger towns and villages, but there are plenty more places to visit that offer a wealth of things to see and do.

Threlkeld village

This old village nestles under Blencathra 2,847 feet high. The mountain has three sharp ridges climbing up its southern side. The Horse and Farrier Inn dates from the seventeenth century; the lintel over the door is inscribed 1688. Outside the inn is a mounting block and anvil. In the churchyard is a remarkable monument erected by John Crozier. It records the names of 45 great huntsmen of the area, most of whom are buried in the churchyard. John Crozier was Master of the Blencathra pack for 64 of his 80 years.

Horse and Farrier Inn, Salutation Inn. Post office, shops, filling station. Bus services to Keswick and Penrith, also Patterdale and Ambleside 9 hole golf course.

Penrith

This ancient market town is the gateway to Northern Lakeland. It has seen its share of the border conflicts. The castle overlooks the town and was probably used as a refuge on the occasions when the town was sacked by the Scots. The castle now lies in ruins surrounded by gardens. The parish church was rebuilt in 1722, but the lower parts of the towers are thirteenth century. In the churchyard is the Giant's Grave, marked by two large monoliths supposedly indicating the giant's head and feet.

They are fifteen feet apart! The churchyard also contains the grave of Wordsworth's mother, who died when he was eight. It was at a small school in Penrith that William Wordsworth met Mary Hutchinson who was later to become his wife.

Overlooking the town is Penrith Beacon, 937 feet, which was a signalling station to warn of the Scots raiders pouring over the border. The hill gives a fine view over the peaks ofthe Lake District and over the Eden Valley to the Pennines. Between Penrith and Ullswater is Dalemain. The house was originally built as a Pele tower and later converted to a Georgian mansion. The house and gardens are open to the public. There are picnic areas in the park and a craft shop and tea room. There is also the museum of the Cumberland and Westmorland Yeomanry which was disbanded in 1919.

There are numerous shops, hotels, inns, garages, banks, etc. Swimming pool. Bus service to Keswick, Carlisle, Kendal, Appleby. Golf course: 18 holes. riding: Round Thorn Riding Centre, Beacon Edge,Penrith; and Glendowlin Farm, Yanworth. Rail service to Carlisle and Lancaster. Early closing day, Wednesday. Bowls, tennis, putting. At Clifton Wykes, four miles southeast of Penrith, is the Weathenggs Country Pottery. There is also a museum, gallery, spinning demonstrations, coffee shop, a weaving shed, blacksmith's forge and a steam engine.

Pooley Bridge

Situated at the foot of Ullswater, this village is a mecca for the water sport enthusiast. The place caters for sailing, canoeing, and water skiing. The tourist can take a trip on the large pleasure craft which run a regular service through the summer between Pooley Bridgeand Howtown. The Journey is a memorable one and this is the best place to start from; as you pass down the lake and around the two bends the scenery beomes more spectacular. The mountains seem to crowd in around you. Bus service to Penrith, Patterdale. Post office, cafes, Sports shop, gift shop, craft centre, information office, toilets, filling station.

Howtown and Martindale

The cul-de-sac road on the eastern side of Ullswater leads to Howtown and Martindale. The road to Howtown is usually busy with sailing enthusiasts, but beyond Howtown it is an area of peace and quiet. This road climbs a series of hairpin bends, and at the top is a fine view down Ullswater. St. Peter's Church is a little further along; it was built in 1881 when another church, a mile up the valley, had fallen into a state of disrepair. On the day the church was consecrated a storm blew in the roof of the old church.

This is a good area when the rest of Lakeland is crowded. A small local guide can be obtained in St. Peter's Church. There is a nature trail around Hollin Fell. Howlown Hotel. Postal bus service to Pooley Bridge and Penrith. Pleasure boat service to Pooley Bridge and Glenridding.

Dockray. A small farming community situated on Aira Beck, above Ullswater. There is a fine view of the lake as you descend to Gowbarrow Park. Royal Hotel. POSI office, craft shop. Bus service to Patterdale, Ambleside and Keswick. Minibus services to Patterdale and Keswick (Tuesdays and Fridays only).

Gowbarrow Park

The park is a stretch of wooded hillside containing Aira Force. Directions are given from the car park near Ullswater. The waterfall is in a rocky setting and falls 70 feet in two leaps into a pool. A bridge above the falls allows a circular walk, along one bank and the return at the other side of the stream. The National Park issues a leaflet of walks in the area.

Glenridding village

The village stands at the head of Ullswater between Place Fell and Sheffield Pike. To the north are situated the beautiful Glencoyne pposite: By Ullswater's beautiful shores. Woods which extend down to the shores of Ullswater. On the shore of Ullswater is the pier where the pleasure boats depart on their trips down the lake.

Glenridding Hotel, Ullswater Hotel, Travellers' Rest Inn. Post office, gift shop, toilets, youth hostel, garage, boat hire, cafe. Angling: Licences from the post office. Bus services to Keswick and Ambleside, also Penrith. Minibus service to Ambleside and Windermere. The National Park issues a leaflet of walks in the area.

Patterdale village

The village is about a mile from Glenridding, at the foot of the Grizedale Valley. A track climbs the northern side of the valley and passes over Striding Edge to the summit of Helvellyn. The summit can also be reached by following Grizedale Beck to the tarn and turning right to the summit at 3,118 feet. Another fine walk which is not as strenuous is to Sandwick Bay, around Silver Point, following the eastern shore of Ullswater. There are fine views across the lake to Sty barrow Crag and Glencoyne Woods. Patterdale Hotel, White Lion. Post office, store, gift shop, cafe, filling station, toilets. Youth hostel. Pony Trekking: Side Farm, Patterdale. Bus service as Glenridding, including minibus services.

Low Hartsop

A small picturesque hamlet near Brotherswater. The Kirkstone Pass begins its climb to the summit at 1,489 feet, where there is an inn the highest in Lakeland. There is a fine view on the descent to Low Hartsop with Brotherswater and Place Fell in the background. A mile above the hamlet is Hayeswater, now a reservoir. Behind the stretch of water stands High Street, 2,717 feet, which takes its name from a Roman road that passed close to the summit.

Greystoke village

A large picturesque village about four miles from Penrith. The treeshaded village green is overlooked by the inn. An archway in the village gives access to Greystoke Castle where the Greystokes, Dacres and Howards have lived. Approaching the church you can see a sanctuary stone marking the former boundary of the church's sanctuary. The church contains some old stained glass and finely carved miseres. Boot and Shoe Inn. Post office, stores, garage. Art gallery (Greystoke Gill). Swimming pool. Bus service to Penrith and Keswick.

Lake District hotels

Wherever you decide to stay in the Lake District, you will find a wide choice of guesthouses, spa hotels and boutique hotels, alongside bed and breakfast accommodation and romantic hotels in Windermere and Bowness. Hotels in the Lake District offer excellent accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

Places of interest in the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

Places to visit in the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

If you are visiting the Lake District for the first time,and you like to get off the beaten track, take your time to explore the villages, towns and hamlets around the region.

Whinlatter Pass

The pass from Keswick to Cockermouth climbs between Grisedale Pike and Lord's Seat. Near the summit is a visitors' centre showing various film and slide shows, a display on Thornthwaite Forest, a bookshop and forest walks. On the eastern side of the pass is a car park offering fine views over Bassenthwaite Lake to Skiddaw.

Portinscale village

The village is just off the main Keswick-Cockermouth road, near the foot of Whinlatter Pass. It is a peaceful, scattered village. The road south passes along the western shore of Derwentwater to Grange giving many splendid views. Lingholm Gardens to the south of Portinscale are open daily, except Sunday, April to October. Post office, shop, cafe, garage, boats for hire. Fishing permits from Derwentwater Hotel. Newlands Valley. This peaceful valley is watered by Newlands Beck. Stair is a small hamlet in the centre of the valley. The head of the valley is riddled with old copper mines under the impressive peak of Dale Head. A road leads west over Newlands Hause to Buttermere.

Cockermouth the Lake District

This town stands on the river Cocker. It was the birthplace of William Wordsworth; the house stands in the main street and is open to the public. At the opposite side of the road, facing the house, is a bust of Wordsworth placed there to celebrate the bicentenary of his birth. He was born in the house on April 7th, 1770. When his mother died he was sent to Hawkshead Grammar School with his brother. His father's grave can be seen in the churchyard.

The castle at Cockermouth played its part in the border conflicts. It was besieged in the Civil War and dismantled afterwards. The castle is still inhabited; the grounds and gardens are open to the public at certain times of the year. The town has numerous inns, shops, banks, garages, etc.

Bassenthwaite village

The village nestles in a hollow under Skiddaw, 3,053 feet. Bassenthwaite Lake, the third largest in Lakeland, can be seen from the village. At the northern end of the lake is a large sailing club. The colourful sailed yachts skimming over the water make a fine sight.

Castle Inn Hotel, Sun Inn. Post office. Bus service to Keswick, Carlisle and Cockermouth. Pony Trekking: Robin Hood Riding Centre, and Hill Farm, Bassenth waite.

Thornthwaite hamlet

A pleasant hamlet at the southwestern end of Bassenthwaite Lake. The hamlet has an ecclesiastical figure in the form of the Bishop of Barf. Looking up on to Barf, 1,536 feet, from the Swan Hotel you can see a white rock. This is the bishop that occasionally gets a fresh coat of paint. It is a rock pinnacle surrounded by shattered slates. Looking across Bassenthwaite from the village there is a fine view of Skiddaw. Swan Hotel, Thwaite Howe Hotel. Garage, licensed cafe, art gallery, studio. Bus service to Keswick and Cockermouth.

Applethwaite the Lake District

A small hamlet at the foot of Skiddaw. A rough road climbs up to a col between Latrigg and Lonscale Fell. A path to the right leads to Latrigg, 1,203 feet. The path on the left climbs on to the top of Skiddaw, 3,053 feet. A short distance along the track is a monument to three men of the Hawell family who were shepherds in the area. About two miles north of the hamlet is the Dodd Wood Forest Trail.

About Ruthwaite

We are now in John Peel country. It was at Ruthwaite that John Peel died on November 13th, 1854. The house where he died is on the left as you walk down the short back lane in the hamlet. In 1848 John Peel took part in one of his longest fox hunts. After the kill they calculated the hunt had covered 60 miles.

Ireby village

The village used to be a market town with a Moot Hall. This was one of the places where John Peel spent many nights celebrating after his successful chases over the surrounding fells. The old market cross still stands 50 yards from the crossroads in the centre of the village. Black Lion Inn, Sun Inn. Post office, store, filling station. Bus services to Keswick, Wigton and Carlisle.

Uldale the Lake District

This small farming community nestles under the northern edge of the Skiddaw range. At Uldale Mill, on the lreby road, is the small, interesting and old church of St. James. The unfenced road eastwards to Caldbeck passes across open grassland giving some pleasant views. Mary White, daughter of a prosperous Uldale farmer, married John Peel. Mary's mother objected to the marriage so John Peel collected her one night and they eloped to Gretna Green and were married by the blacksmith.

Post office. Bus service to Keswick and Carlisle. Typical fell-foot Lakeland cottage as seen from the Keswick-Cockermouth road in dramatic lighting conditions. (E. Emrys Jones). Caldbeck. The village is famous as the birthplace of John Peel. His fame is due to two other men. In 1829 John Woodcock Graves was sat by his fireside with John Peel. His eldest child was being sung to sleep, so Graves decided to write a song about John Peel, took up pen and paper and composed the song which has become known the world over. The song was originally sung to a tune called Bonnie Annie. It was set to its present tune by William Metcalfe who did a great deal to publicise the song. It was first sung in the Oddfellows Arms at Caldbeck.

John Peel's grave can be seen in the churchyard. It is on the left as you approach the church. Also in the churchyard is the grave of Mary Butermere. She was the daughter of an innkeeper at Buttermere who, while still young, married John Hatfield. He was an imposter pretending to be a member of the Duke of Rutland's family, and had earlier been Imprisoned at Scarborough for debt.
He talked a lady from Devon into clearing the debt, married, and then abandoned her. He arrived in Keswick posing as Lord Hopetown and hearing of the beautiful Mary of Buttermere, courted and married her.

Within a year he was found out, tried for forgery, and hanged. Mary later married a Caldbeck farmer.The church has a lepers' window set in one wall; this enabled lepers to hear the service without entering the church. Behind the church is a small bridge over Parkend Beck. Beside the bridge is a well, said to have been used by St. Kentigern to whom the church is dedicated. The beck passes through a particularly scenic stretch called the Howk. John Peel Inn.

Hesket Newmarket

A quiet peaceful village situated around a village green. At one time the village was a market town. On the green stands a small covered market where produce could be displayed and sold. Old Crown Inn. Post office/shop. Youth hostel (Carrock Fell). Bus service to Penrith. Mungrisedale. The village lies at the foot of Bowscale Fell, 2,306 feet. The small church is more interesting than many places five times its size. A church has stood on the site since 550 A.D. when St. Kentigern journeyed through the area. Many of the places he visited have churches dedicated to him (Caldbeck, Keswick, etc.). Inside the church is a three decker pulpit dated 1679.

Above the doorway, as you enter, is a bell dating from 1491. There is a prayer book containing the commemoration to the martyrdom of Charles I and a Black Letter Bible of 1617 containing the signatures of the curates from 1680 to 1715. It is recorded that the book cost forty four shillings.

Lake District walks

If you are planning to explore the Lake District on foot, you can get information about walks, hikes and climbs from any tourist information centre in the Lake District.

Places to visit in the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

If you are visiting the Lake District for the first time,and you like to get off the beaten track, take your time to explore the villages, towns and hamlets around the region.

Whinlatter Pass

The pass from Keswick to Cockermouth climbs between Grisedale Pike and Lord's Seat. Near the summit is a visitors' centre showing various film and slide shows, a display on Thornthwaite Forest, a bookshop and forest walks. On the eastern side of the pass is a car park offering fine views over Bassenthwaite Lake to Skiddaw.

Portinscale village

The village is just off the main Keswick-Cockermouth road, near the foot of Whinlatter Pass. It is a peaceful, scattered village. The road south passes along the western shore of Derwentwater to Grange giving many splendid views. Lingholm Gardens to the south of Portinscale are open daily, except Sunday, April to October. Post office, shop, cafe, garage, boats for hire. Fishing permits from Derwentwater Hotel. Newlands Valley. This peaceful valley is watered by Newlands Beck. Stair is a small hamlet in the centre of the valley. The head of the valley is riddled with old copper mines under the impressive peak of Dale Head. A road leads west over Newlands Hause to Buttermere.

Cockermouth the Lake District

This town stands on the river Cocker. It was the birthplace of William Wordsworth; the house stands in the main street and is open to the public. At the opposite side of the road, facing the house, is a bust of Wordsworth placed there to celebrate the bicentenary of his birth. He was born in the house on April 7th, 1770. When his mother died he was sent to Hawkshead Grammar School with his brother. His father's grave can be seen in the churchyard.

The castle at Cockermouth played its part in the border conflicts. It was besieged in the Civil War and dismantled afterwards. The castle is still inhabited; the grounds and gardens are open to the public at certain times of the year. The town has numerous inns, shops, banks, garages, etc.

Bassenthwaite village

The village nestles in a hollow under Skiddaw, 3,053 feet. Bassenthwaite Lake, the third largest in Lakeland, can be seen from the village. At the northern end of the lake is a large sailing club. The colourful sailed yachts skimming over the water make a fine sight.

Castle Inn Hotel, Sun Inn. Post office. Bus service to Keswick, Carlisle and Cockermouth. Pony Trekking: Robin Hood Riding Centre, and Hill Farm, Bassenth waite.

Thornthwaite hamlet

A pleasant hamlet at the southwestern end of Bassenthwaite Lake. The hamlet has an ecclesiastical figure in the form of the Bishop of Barf. Looking up on to Barf, 1,536 feet, from the Swan Hotel you can see a white rock. This is the bishop that occasionally gets a fresh coat of paint. It is a rock pinnacle surrounded by shattered slates. Looking across Bassenthwaite from the village there is a fine view of Skiddaw. Swan Hotel, Thwaite Howe Hotel. Garage, licensed cafe, art gallery, studio. Bus service to Keswick and Cockermouth.

Applethwaite the Lake District

A small hamlet at the foot of Skiddaw. A rough road climbs up to a col between Latrigg and Lonscale Fell. A path to the right leads to Latrigg, 1,203 feet. The path on the left climbs on to the top of Skiddaw, 3,053 feet. A short distance along the track is a monument to three men of the Hawell family who were shepherds in the area. About two miles north of the hamlet is the Dodd Wood Forest Trail.

About Ruthwaite

We are now in John Peel country. It was at Ruthwaite that John Peel died on November 13th, 1854. The house where he died is on the left as you walk down the short back lane in the hamlet. In 1848 John Peel took part in one of his longest fox hunts. After the kill they calculated the hunt had covered 60 miles.

Ireby village

The village used to be a market town with a Moot Hall. This was one of the places where John Peel spent many nights celebrating after his successful chases over the surrounding fells. The old market cross still stands 50 yards from the crossroads in the centre of the village. Black Lion Inn, Sun Inn. Post office, store, filling station. Bus services to Keswick, Wigton and Carlisle.

Uldale the Lake District

This small farming community nestles under the northern edge of the Skiddaw range. At Uldale Mill, on the lreby road, is the small, interesting and old church of St. James. The unfenced road eastwards to Caldbeck passes across open grassland giving some pleasant views. Mary White, daughter of a prosperous Uldale farmer, married John Peel. Mary's mother objected to the marriage so John Peel collected her one night and they eloped to Gretna Green and were married by the blacksmith.

Post office. Bus service to Keswick and Carlisle. Typical fell-foot Lakeland cottage as seen from the Keswick-Cockermouth road in dramatic lighting conditions. (E. Emrys Jones). Caldbeck. The village is famous as the birthplace of John Peel. His fame is due to two other men. In 1829 John Woodcock Graves was sat by his fireside with John Peel. His eldest child was being sung to sleep, so Graves decided to write a song about John Peel, took up pen and paper and composed the song which has become known the world over. The song was originally sung to a tune called Bonnie Annie. It was set to its present tune by William Metcalfe who did a great deal to publicise the song. It was first sung in the Oddfellows Arms at Caldbeck.

John Peel's grave can be seen in the churchyard. It is on the left as you approach the church. Also in the churchyard is the grave of Mary Butermere. She was the daughter of an innkeeper at Buttermere who, while still young, married John Hatfield. He was an imposter pretending to be a member of the Duke of Rutland's family, and had earlier been Imprisoned at Scarborough for debt.

He talked a lady from Devon into clearing the debt, married, and then abandoned her. He arrived in Keswick posing as Lord Hopetown and hearing of the beautiful Mary of Buttermere, courted and married her. Within a year he was found out, tried for forgery, and hanged. Mary later married a Caldbeck farmer.

The church has a lepers' window set in one wall; this enabled lepers to hear the service without entering the church. Behind the church is a small bridge over Parkend Beck. Beside the bridge is a well, said to have been used by St. Kentigern to whom the church is dedicated. The beck passes through a particularly scenic stretch called the Howk. John Peel Inn.

Hesket Newmarket

A quiet peaceful village situated around a village green. At one time the village was a market town. On the green stands a small covered market where produce could be displayed and sold. Old Crown Inn. Post office/shop. Youth hostel (Carrock Fell). Bus service to Penrith. Mungrisedale. The village lies at the foot of Bowscale Fell, 2,306 feet. The small church is more interesting than many places five times its size. A church has stood on the site since 550 A.D. when St. Kentigern journeyed through the area. Many of the places he visited have churches dedicated to him (Caldbeck, Keswick, etc.). Inside the church is a three decker pulpit dated 1679.

Above the doorway, as you enter, is a bell dating from 1491. There is a prayer book containing the commemoration to the martyrdom of Charles I and a Black Letter Bible of 1617 containing the signatures of the curates from 1680 to 1715. It is recorded that the book cost forty four shillings.

Lake District walks

If you are planning to explore the Lake District on foot, you can get information about walks, hikes and climbs from any tourist information centre in the Lake District.

Lake District villages and things to do in the lakes

2010-03-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

This is a large village with an interesting church and churchyard. The churchyard contains the tallest ancient cross in the country. It stands 15 feet high and has a slender tapering shaft surmounted by a four hole head. The cross dates back to before the Norman Conquest. The church contains a Chinese bell which was captured from a fort on the Canton River by Sir Humphrey Senhouse. There are also two stone cannon balls from the Dardanelles. Inns: Globe Hotel, Horse and Groom. POSl office, licensed restaurant, garage, shops, cafe, bank, craft shop and toilets. Bus service to Millom and Whitehaven. Minibus service to Ambleside. Pony Trekking: Fleming Hall, Gosforth.

Calder Bridge

A roadside village between Whitehaven and Millom. Nearby is Calder Hall power station. Its reactors were the first in the world to create electricity from nuclear power commercially. The buildings can bePerfect morning by Wastwater, with the profile of the high peaks mirrored in the still lake. Prominent in the centre is Great Gable. (Tom Parker). seen on the seaward side of the village. Contrasting with these modern buildings is Calder Abbey, which lies about a mile upstream on the river Calder. The abbey was founded in 1134 by monks from Furness Abbey, but their settlement was destroyed by the Scots a few years later. Soon afterwards it was resettled and completed in 1180. The ruins are mostly of the 13th century including the north arcade which rises to 64 feet.

The village is a good centre if you want to enjoy the seaside and explore the rugged western valleys of Lakeland. There is a sandy beach and a fine 18 hole golf course. Post office, shops, chemist, banks, garage. Rail service to Barrow and Whitehaven. Bus service to Millom and Whitehaven.

St. Bees information

The town nestles under St. Bees Head, the highest point on the Cumberland coast. It is situated about half a mile from the sea, but the beach has the usual amenities. The church is on the site of a seventh century nunnery built by St. Bega from whom the place takes its name. After the dissolution of the monasteries the building was restored as the parish church. St. Bees is the starting point for a 190 miles coast to coast walk to Robin Hood's Bay on the Yorkshire coast.

Post office, shops, craft shop, restaurant, banks, garages, fish and chip shop, toilets. Bus service to Whitehaven and Egremont. Rail service to Whitehaven and Barrow. 9 hole golf course, sea fishing.

Egremont the Lake District

The town stands on the river Ehen which flows from Ennerdale Water. Standing high above the river are the ruins of Egremont Castle, associated with the Horn of Egremont legend. The horn used to hang outside the castle gate and could only be blown by the rightful heir. Sir Eustace de Lucy went off to the crusades with his brother Hubert. Sir Eustace was captured and Hubert was sent home to collect a ransom. On his return Hubert took over the estates and became Lord of the Manor, but did not dare attempt to blow the horn. Time passed and one day, while Hubert was feasting, there came a blast from the horn at the gate. Hubert realised his brother had returned. He fled, but later came back and was forgiven by Sir Eustace.

Keswick information

The market town is the capital of northern Lakeland. It is situated at the northern end of Derwentwater. The market is dominated by the Moot Hall which was first built in 1571 and rebuilt in 1813. The place is now used as a tourist information centre. The clock on the tower has only one hand.

Greta Hall was the home of Southey for forty years and was visited by many eminent literary figures of the day. The building is now part of Keswick School. Robert Southey is buried in Keswick's old church dedicated to St. Kentigern. The church is situated just off the Cockermouth road on the outskirts of the town. Near Southey's grave, in the churchyard, is an indicator naming many of the surrounding mountains. Inside the church is a memorial to Canon Rawnsley, vicar of the church for 34 years, and founder of the National Trust.

On Friars Crag to the south of Keswick, sign posted To the lake, is a memorial plaque to the canon. He fought many battles to stop the Lake District being spoiled. Also to be seen on Friars Crag is a memorial to John Ruskin. There is a fine view from the crag looking down Derwentwater. A short walk along the beach to the left gives the favourite view of Friars Crag, the rock promontory covered with Scots Pines.

A nature trail has been arranged from near the landing stage on the lake shore. The National Trust has an information centre here where you can obtain the descriptive leaflet. From the landing you can hire a boat or go for a trip on the pleasure boats. To the east of the town, where the road splits to Ambleside and Penrith, a small road leads up to Castlerigg Stone Circle. The circle is 100 feet across and is believed to date from the Bronze Age. There is a good view of the surrounding mountains from the circle, including Blencathra, 2,847 feet.

The local museum, in Fitz Park, contains many original letters written by famous literary people. The most remarkable object in the museum is the rck, steel and bell band. It consists of 60 specially chosen pieces of stone, 60 pieces of steel and 40 bells. The instrument was played by a father and his three sons who performed before Queen Victoria and completed a Continental tour.

Watendlath

The hamlet is situated at the end of a narrow twisty road. It is an exceptionally picturesque road which has two well-known views. About half a mile above the Borrowdale road, the Watendlath road crosses a small bridge. Park in the nearby car park and walk over to Ashness Gill; there is a superb view over Derwentwater to Skiddaw. A little further along the road, in Ashness Woods, there is an excellent view looking down into the Jaws of Borrowdale. The small hamlet of Watendlath is best seen from across the tarn, reflected in the water. It was used by Hugh Walpole as the setting for Judith Paris. The best time to visit the hamlet would be in the morning or evening as the narrow road becomes congested with traffic.

Grange village

The village is reached from the main road by two bridges which cross the river Derwent. It is a favourite theme for artists. The small church in the village is composed of local slate, and is even fenced round with slabs of slate. A mile to the north of the village are two waterfalls.

Barrow Falls drops 120 feet in two leaps. Behind the Swiss Lodore Hotel is the Lodore Cascade where Watendlath Beck falls about 100 feet. The cascade is reached through a turnstile (small fee) to the right of the hotel. Gates Hotel, restaurant, cafe, craft centre, toilets. Youth hostel. Bus service to Keswick and Seatoller.

Rosthwaite is situated at the southern side of the Jaws of Borrowdale. As you pass through the steep sided valley you will see a car park in a slate quarry; a path leads from the quarry to the Bowder Stone. The stone weighs nearly 2,000 tons. When it fell down the hillside it came to rest on its edge, and there it stands today. The base is so narrow that at one point a person at each side can hold hands underneath the rock. A ladder placed at the side gives access to the top of the stone.

Post office. Bus service to Keswick and Seatoller. Angling: Licences from Sea fell Hotel, Rosthwaite. The National Park issues a leaflet of walks around Rosthwaite.Lake District grandeur. Above: Buttermere and Crummock Water as seen from the outlet of Blackbeck Tarn. (N. Shuttleworth). Left: Early June at Rosthwaite in Borrowdale. (E. Emrys Jones).

Seathwaite the Lake District

The hamlet has the doubtful honour of being the wettest village in Britain. It is the starting point for the ascent of many mountains including Great Gable and Scafell Pike.

Seatoller village

The village is set at the foot of the steep Honister Pass which carries the road over into the Buttermere valley. Seatoller is the starting place for the Johnny Wood Nature Trail. Licensed restaurant, toilets. Bus service to Keswick. Minibus to Keswick via Buttermere. Information centre in Seatoller Barn.

Honister Pass

The road is steep, 1 in 4 in places, and climbs to a height of 1,176 feet. At the summit is a youth hostel and a large slate quarry. As you descend into the Buttermere valley you can see the sombre Honister Crags on the left and Buttermere straight in front of you.

Buttermere village

The village lies between Buttermere and Crummock Water. The small village church overlooks the place from the side of the road which climbs over Newlands Hause. The village is surrounded by mountains. Looking down the lake you can see Fleetwith Pike, 2,126 feet. Across the valley, from the church, are the three mountains of Red Pike, High Stile and High Crag. The local rescue team has a display of equipment in the school hall, near the church, on most weekends in summer. The National Park issues a leaflet of walks in the district.

Loweswater the Lake District

A small village between Crummock Water and Loweswater. Mellbreak, 1,676 feet, towers above the village to the south. There are some fine views from the road, alongside Loweswater.
Bus service to Cockermouth (not Sundays). Fishing permits from Scale Hill Hotel.

High and Low Lorton

Low Lorton is set in the pretty vale of Lorton through which flows the river Cocker. High Lorton is set at the foot of Graystones, 1,476 feet, about a quarter of a mile away. The road to Keswick climbs from High Lorton over the Whinlatter Pass, passing fells which are extensively wooded. High Lorton: Horseshoe Inn, post office/store, filling station. Low Lorton: Wheatsheaf Inn, store. Bus service to Cockermouth. Minibus service to Keswick.

Hotels in Windermere and Bowness

If you want to make the most of the Lake District attractions, check out the spa hotels and boutique hotels in Windermere and Bowness, and either use public transport or hire a car to explore the other areas of the Lake District.

Places to see in the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

Most of the places to visit in the Lake District can be explored on foot or by car, and wherever you are staying in the lakes, you will not be far away from some of the best attractions and most fascinating towns and villages.

Tilberthwaite GhylI

Just under 1 mile north of Coniston, a road turns off to High and Low Tilberthwaite. Tilberthwaite Ghyll is a steep sided gorge near Low Tilberthwaite. Wooden bridges have been built to allow access to the gorge. There are paths at both sides above the gorge. On the fellside higher up the valley are a number of old copper mines and shafts. The Ghyll is reached from a large car park along a path sign-posted The Gill. The path passes through a disused slate quarry and there are fine views over the Fairfield range of mountains.

Torver village

A small roadside village between Coniston and Broughton-in-Furness with a good view of Coniston Old Man. A track leads to the summit from the village giving fine views of Dow Crag on the way, but Coniston is the more popular starting place for the ascent. A mile to the southwest a picturesque cul-de-sac road leads on to Broughton Fell, offering some fine views of Coniston Water and the surrounding district.

Duddon Valley the Lake District

The River Duddon runs out to sea between Millom and Barrow-in-Furness as a wide estuary. This estuary gives little indication of the quiet peaceful valley along which the river tumbles for the greater part of its length. From Duddon Bridge the road along the east bank gives the best views.

The hamlet of Ulpha

A quiet peaceful hamlet where the river is crossed by an old stone bridge. The valley was immortalised by Wordsworth in a series of 34 sonnets. The church is one of the small simple churches with which the Lake District abounds. A spectacular unfenced mountain road from Ulpha climbs over Birker Fell to Eskdale Green, offering fine views of the Scafell group of mountains.

Post office/shop, filling station (between Ulpha and Seathwaite). Served by postal bus service. Angling: Licences from post office. Seathwaite. The area around Seathwaite is one of the finest stretches of river and woodland scenery in the Lakes. The village is associated with Wonderful Walker of whom Wordsworth wrote in his sonnets. The Rev. Robert Walker was curate of Seathwaite from 1735 to 1802. His stipend in 1735 was £5 a year; it never exceeded £50. His wife possessed £40 when he married her. He educated his children, was charitable throughout his life, and died aged 92 leaving £2,000 in savings. The stone which he used when clipping sheep can be seen near the church entrance. His grave can be seen in the churchyard. The church is not the one where Robert Walker preached; an attempt was made by Ruskin and others to preserve the church as a memorial, but the present stone church occupies the same site.

The road along the Duddon Valley continues to Wrynose Bottom and to the source of the river Duddon above the Three Shires Stone on Wrynose Pass. A scenic route the whole way.

The Valley of Eskdale

This valley has the attraction of being served by one of the quaintest railways in Britain. At the head of the valley the road climbs over Hardknott Pass. On the northern side of the road is Hardknott Castle, a Roman fort which guarded the route from Ravenglass over the pass into the interior. There is a good view of Scafell Pike from the site.

Boot village

This is the first village down the valley. It is served by the small Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and is the finest way to see the valley. The line was originally a 3 foot gauge mineral railway for transporting iron ore out of the valley. It was opened to goods traffic in 1875 and the following year for passengers. Despite the railway company going broke in 1877 the line continued in use until 1913. In 1915 two model engineers leased the track and converted it to 15 inch gauge. They provided an all year round service carrying mail, goods and passengers. In 1960 the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway came up for sale and was bought by a preservation society. The society has since added a third engine to the two original model engines.

Dalegarth station is about 200 yards from the village of Boot. From the station a nature trail is waymarked to Stanley Ghyll Waterfall. The fall is set in a wooded setting and drops 60 feet into a rock pool. It is one of the finest sights of western Lakeland.

The Eskdale Mill at Boot has been restored by Cumbria County Council and is open to the public. The corn mill has two 12-foot diameter overshot waterwheels to drive the machinery, and these are fed by a mill race from Whillan Beck. The ground floor of the mill is largely composed of disused millstones.

Eskdale Green

A small straggling village near the entrance to Eskdale. There are two railway stations on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway serving the village Irton Road and Eskdale Green stations. Inns: George IV Inn, Bower House. Post office/shop, basket maker, garage. Bank on Tuesdays. Minibus service to Ambleside and Gosforth.

Ravenglass village

The village is situated at the estuaries of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. It was at one time an important Roman port and to the south of the village are the remains of a Roman fort. The wide main street leads down to the estuary which once made Ravenglass one of the most important ports on the Cumberland coast.

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway terminus is situated near the British Rail station. At one time the ore brought down the Esk valley was transferred on to the main line for further shipment. To the north of the village is a gull sanctuary which can only be visited by special permission. A mile to the east of Ravenglass is Muncaster Castle which is open to visitors.

The castle is 600 years old and is the seat of the Pennington family. Henry VI stayed here after his defeat at the Battle of Hexham. The king gave the family a shallow green bowl, stating that the family would prosper as long as the bowl remained unbroken. The bowl is known as the Luck of Muncaster. The castle has a fine collection of furniture, porcelain and pictures on display and the gardens contain rhododendrons and azaleas and a bird garden and flamingo pool. On the outskirts of the village, near the main road, is Muncaster Mill. The oatmeal mill has been restored and is open to the public.

Lake District hotels

Wherever you decide to stay in the Lake District, you will find plenty of spa hotels, boutique hotels, luxury hotels, guest houses and B&B accommodation throughout the region. Prices range from low to high, and there are plenty of places offering excellent accommodation near Windermere, Bowness and Grasmere.

Santon Bridge

The village is situated around the bridge which spans the river Irt. Southwest is Irton Church, built where a crusader was buried. In the churchyard is a fine sandstone cross nearly 10 feet high. It probably dates from the tenth century. Inside the church is a marble to Skeffington Ludwig who led an expedition of polar exploration in 1773. Under his command was a midshipman called Horatio Nelson.

Nether Wasdale

The village is situated around the green at the entrance to Wasdale. Looking up the valley is one of the finest views in Lakeland. In the foreground is Wastwater, while the three peaks of Yewbarrow, Great Gable and Lingmell rise to the skies behind the lake. To the right of Lingmell is Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain.

The sight which attracts the visitor's eyes when he first visits Wasdale is the screes on the opposite side of the lake. They tumble down from near the summit of Illgill Head to the lake's shore. On a dull day the valley feels distinctly eerie. On a fine sunny day it becomes one of the most scenic valleys in the Lake District.

Wasdale Head

The drive from Nether Wasdale to Wasdale Head is one of the finest in England. You are heading towards the mountains which tower above the hamlet. Behind the Wastwater Hotel is a picturesque packhorse bridge over Mosedale Beck. The hamlet is a climbing and walking centre. The bridge immediately above the lake is the start of the path which leads to the summit of Scafell Pike, 3,210 feet. The path passes above Lingmell Gill and to Lingmell Col where a path to the right leads to the summit. There is a superb view from the top.

The quaint church sheltering among the trees at Wasdale Head is well worth a visit. In a window, on the right, is an etched pane of glass showing Napes Needle, a rock pinnacle on nearby Great Gable. Underneath are written the words, I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my strength. Which seems so appropriate in a church surrounded by hills.

Where to stay in the Lake District

If you want to be close to the major Lake District attractions, including the Beatrix Potter Attraction and the Lakes Aquarium at Bowness, check out the Windermere and Bowness hotels, or take a trip to Ambleside or Coniston for a wide choice of romantic hotels, B&B accommodation and guest houses to suit all budgets.

Helvellyn and places of interest in the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

Whether you are looking for easy walks around Windermere or a challenging climb up Helvellyn, you can find plenty of hikes and climbs in the Lake District.

Near the head of the lake is Wythburn Church. The small, whitewashed church was known and written about by Wordsworth and Hartley Coleridge. From the car park, beside the church, is a path which leads to the summit of Helvellyn, 3,118 feet. The path is an easy climb, under good conditions, and there are views across Thirlmere to Skiddaw, 3,053 feet, on the ascent. From the top you can look down on to two knife-edge ridges, Swirral Edge and Striding Edge, which are reached from Patterdale. On the summit is a plaque commemorating the first landing of an aircraft on a British mountain. It took place on Helvellyn in 1926.

Half a mile south of Thirlspot on the main road is the start of the Swirls Forest Trail. It is a 314 of a mile long trail organised by Manchester Corporation Waterworks. Trail leaflets are available at the start.

Great Langdale. To the west of Ambleside, and also reached by a picturesque but steep road from Grasmere, arc thc Langdale valleys. At the entrance to Great Langdale, near the Skelwith Bridge Hotel, is Skelwith The unmistakable outline of the distant Langdale Pikes as seen across the short reach of Elterwater. (F. Leonard Jackson) Force. The fall drops only about twenty feet, but over the lip tumbles all the water gathered from the mountains around the Langdale valley, and for this reason the fall is impressive.

Elterwater village

The village is picturesquely set around a small village.green, partly shaded by a large tree. On one side of the green is the old inn which carries a fine sign. A more delightful scene would be hard to imagine. Looking up the valley from the village you can see the Langdale Pikes rising in all their glory.
Shop. Youth hostel. Bowling green. Bus service to Ambleside. Chapel Stile. The further up the valley you drive the more impressive the mountain scenery becomes. Chapel Stile is a cluster of stone built houses situated about halfway along the Langdale valley.

Little Langdale

The valley of Little Langdale is entirely different from Great Langdale. The road through the valley is narrow and twisty and the surrounding heights do not appear as spectacular. In the middle of the valley is Little Langdale Tarn; nearby there is an old packhorse bridge, a beautiful scene for artists and photographers.

At the foot of the valley is Colwith Force, a ninety foot waterfall in a sylvan setting. Parking to see the waterfall is difficult and a key to a gateway should be obtained from a cottage near the start of the path. The road out of the valley ascends Wrynose Pass, a steep narrow road which becomes congested at times. The road then continues into the Duddon Valley or over the Hardknott Pass, a steep climb with hairpin bends, into Eskdale. At the top of Wrynose Pass is a stone pillar inscribed Lancashire. This was the meeting place of Lancashire, Westmorland and Cumberland.

About Hawkshead and Coniston

Hawkshead is one of the quaintest and most picturesque villages in the north of England. The houses in the centre of the village have added extensions, often over the lanes. This gives rise to many narrow passageways which are a delight to explore. Hawkshead is very reminiscent of the fishing villages of Robin Hood's Bay or Clovelly. All the houses and small gardens are a wealth of flowers in the summer.

Near the National Trust Information Office is a cottage with a low entrance; over the door is written Bend or Bump. The church is situated on a hill with fine views of the surrounding countryside. It is also a good place to get your bearings in the village below, before entering its maze of side-streets. The most famous inhabitant of the village was William Wordsworth who was a scholar at the grammar school. It was founded in 1585 by Edwin Sandys, Archbishop of York, who was born at nearby Esthwaite Hall. The school contains a desk where Wordsworth has carved his initials. He was at the school from 1779 to 1787 and he lodged during this time with Ann Tyson. Her cottage is situated in the maze of houses in the centre of the village. At the side of the cottage, and reached by an outside staircase, was a small chapel.

To the north of the village is the Court House which was used by the monks of Furness Abbey. It is now a folk museum furnished with items from the Abbot Hall Museum, Kendal. The building is administered by the National Trust. Hotels and Inns: King's Arms Hotel, Queen Head Hotel, Red Lion, Sun Inn. There a number of cafes, gift shops, stores banks, a garage, post office, pottery, two information centres and toilets. Youth hostel (I mile south). Bus service to Ambleside and Coniston.

Minibus service to Tarn Hows and Windermere, via Windermere Ferry. The Lake District Information Service issues a leaflet of three walks around Hawkshead. Angling: Licences from the Post office, Hawkshead. Pony Trekking: Tarn Hows Hotel, Hawkshead. This is one of Lakeland's most famous beauty spots. Three tarns have been merged into one. You can park your car in the car park and wander around the banks of this lake set high in the hills. Visible from the shore of the lake are many mountain tops including Wetherlam, Fairfield, Helvellyn and the Langdale Pikes.

A descriptive leaflet of the trail is available at most information centres. A one-way road system operates to Tarn Hows; the only approach is frorm: Hawkshead and the Coniston road is downhill only. Toilets, car park. Barngates. North of Hawkshead the signposts point uphill to Barngates. At the crossroads is situated the quaintly named Drunken Duck Inn. The inn received its unusual name many years ago when a barrel of ale at the inn burst and some of the ale seeped into a feeding trough. The ducks ate the ale-soaked corn in the feeding trough and became drunk. The landlady, seeing the ducks lying motionless in the road, plucked them for dinner thinking them dead. When she discovered they were alive she knitted them some wool garments to keep them warm. There is a fine view from the inn over Windermere.

Near and Far Sawrey and Beatrix Potter

Sawrey is divided into Near Sawrey and Far Sawrey, reached from Hawkshead by a road along the eastern side of Esthwaite Water and set in well wooded surroundings. Beatrix Potter, the author of many children's stories, lived at Hill Top Farm, Near Sawrey. The house was given to the National Trust when she died and is open to the public. It was around these villages that Beatrix Potter got her inspirations for the beautiful animal illustrations in her books. The road from Near Sawrey descends to the pier on Windermere where the ferry crosses the lake to Bowness. There is a 6-mile waymarked route along Claife Heights above Windermere. A leaflet is available from the Tourist Information Offices.

Tower Bank Arms Inn, Sawrey Hotel. Post office, stores. Minibus service to Hawkshead and Windermere. Bus service to Ambleside and Coniston.

Esthwaite Water is the Forestry Commission's Grizedale Forest. The village of Grizedale is the Forestry Commission's Centre. The information office or camp shop will give on the spot details. There are two forest trails, the Millwood Forest Trail, and the long Silurian Way. It is recommended that the latter one is done in two parts. there is a wildlife centre, and observation hides for photography can be booked from the Chief Forester. Fishing is allowed in Grizedale Beck and tickets can be bought from the camp shop. There are numerous small car parks and picnic sites in the area. Grizedale possesses a small theatre where music recitals are performed and there are also lectures and slide and film shows.

Coniston village

Coniston village is overlooked by Coniston Old Man, which was the highest point in Lancashire at 2,635 feet. The mountain side is riddled with old copper mines which are now disused, but which were once a thriving industry. The village is situated between Yewdale Beck and Church Beck near the lake which bears its name.

In the centre of the village, outside the car park, is a memorial to Donald Campbell. He was killed on January 4th, 1967, while attempting to raise his own world water speed record on Coniston Water. The record stood at 276.33 m.p.h.; when he crashed it was estimated that he was moving at about 320 m.p.h. A number of the hotels around Coniston have mementoes of his stay in the village while waiting for the right conditions. There are also some photographs of him with Bluebird in the small Ruskin Museum.

John Ruskin and Brantwood

John Ruskin lived at Brantwood, on the eastern shore of Coniston Water, from 1872 until his death in 1900. The house is open to the public and there are a large number of paintings by Ruskin and contemporary artists. The gardens have a display of rhododendrons and azaleas. There is also a nature trail laid out in the grounds of the house. Ruskin lies buried in Coniston churchyard, after his family turned down an offer for him to be buried in Westminster Abbey. His gravestone is in the shape of a Celtic cross.

The Old Man of Coniston

The ascent of Coniston Old Man is frequently undertaken. On a fine Sunday in summer it will just be a matter of following everyone else. The track starts near the Sun Hotel, or alternatively the Walna Scar road can be followed to a gate where the quarry road turns off. The ascent is made through the quarry to the summit cairn. From the summit can be seen all four of Lakeland's three thousanders and to the west you can see across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man. The National Park issues a leaflet describing three walks around the area. Dow Crags to the west is a noted rock climbing area.

There are a number of cafes, shops, garages, banks, a post office and toilets. Two youth hostels. Bus service to Ambleside, Hawkshead, Ulverston. Angling: Licences from M. Nicholson, Shop 3, Lakeland House, Tilberthwaite Avenue, Coniston. Pony Trekking: Spoon Hall, Coniston.

Climbing and walking in the Lake District

If you are planning a climbing or walking holiday in the Lake District, work out your route before you travel to make the most of this stunning region. Climbing and walking routes can be found at any tourist information centre in the Lake District, and some of Windermere´s best hotels can be found online.

Lake District towns and villages

2010-03-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Some of England´s most beautiful villages and towns are situated in the Lake District, and whether you want to explore the famous towns of Windermere and Grasmere, or discover the hidden villages and hamlets, you will find plenty of things to see and do en route.

Cark

A village situated on the railway line between Grange-over-Sands and Ulverston. The nearby village of Flookburgh is associated with the shrimping industry. To the northwest of the village is Holker Hall, a sixteenth century house with later additions. The house and gardens are open to the public. A large herd of fallow deer in the park is one of the oldest in the country.

Inns: Engine Inn, Rose and Crown. Store, craft shop, toilets, post office. Railway to Lancaster and Ulverston. Bus service to Grange-over-Sands, Newby Bridge and Ulverston. The resort has a long promenade and there is a fine swimming pool. The promenade gives views across Morecambe Bay, but the sands are poor. There are also bowling greens, tennis courts and a putting green. The resort was originally a grange of Cartmel Priory and grew in popularity with the coming of the Furness Railway in 1857. Towering up behind the town is Hampsfell, 727 feet.

There is a fine view from the hospice at the top, which can be reached by a sign posted path on the northern side of the town. There are a number of shops, cafes, banks, inns and hotels. Tourist Information Office. Rail service to Lancaster and Ulverston. Bus service to Cartmel, Ulverston and Kendal. Golf: 18 hole golf course. Riding: Guides Farm, Cart Lane, Grange.

About Lindale

A pleasant village just off the Kendal to Ulverston road. Near the crossroads in the village, on the southern side, is a forty foot high iron column, a memorial to John Wilkinson. He was an iron-master who reputedly made the first iron boat.The column has a plaque of the man and records his death on the 14th of July 1808, aged 80 years. Inn: Lindale Inn. Garages, toilets, post office, store, cafe (half mile east). Bus services to Kendal, Ulverston and Grange.

Levens Hall the Lake District

The hall incorporates a fourteenth century Pele tower for protection against the raiding Scots. The large Elizabethan mansion has been built around the tower. The fine gardens were laid out between 1701 and 1704 in 100 acres of parkland, they include some impressive topiary work. The hall has a collection of steam engines which are in steam when the house is open. Gardens open daily from Easter to end of September, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. House and steam collection open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, also Bank Holiday Mondays, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Sizergh the Lake District

A small village with a fine Pele tower built in 1360 as protection agaInst Scots raiders. The castle has been the home of the Strickland family for over 700 years. It contains some fine paintings, panelling and furniture. Hotel: Strickland Arms Hotel. Castle and gardens open Wednesday and Sunday, April to end of September, and Thursdays in July and August, 2 p.m. to 5.45 p.m. Sedgwick. The village is situated above a pleasant stretch of the Kent where the river tumbles over a series of rocks. In the centre of the village is a bridge which used to carry the Lancaster-Kendal canal over the road.

The Central Lakes

Troutbeck Bridge is a small community situated between Windermere and Ambleside at the foot of the road leading up to Troutbeck. On the A592 road to Troutbeck and the Kirkstone Pass are Holehird Gardens. The gardens are maintained by Cumbria County Council who lease part of them to the Lakeland Horticultural Society. The gardens surround a Cheshire Foundation nursing home and are open free to the public. There is a fine rock garden and a good display of rhododendrons, azaleas and flowering shrubs, and a fine view over Windermere. Hotel: Sun Hotel. Filling station, post office, restaurant, cafe, swimming pool, youth hostel. Bus service to Patterdale, Ambleside, Windermere and Kendal. Minibus service to Patterdale and Ullswater.

About Troutbeck

A long straggling village of grey stone houses with many interesting nooks and corners. The road which descends to Troutbeck Bridge and Ambleside discloses some fine views. Town End, a house at the southern end of the village, is a Statesman's house. It was built about 1626 and belonged to the Browne family for 300 years. It is now owned by the National Trust.

The church contains some stained glass by Burne Jones. The Mortal Man Inn owes its fame to its sign. The original sign was painted by Julius Caesar Ibbotson, a painter of some merit, to settle a debt he owed the innkeeper. The sign showed two men and the words: o mortal man, that lives by bread, What is it makes thy nose so red? Thous silly fool that, lookist so pale, 'Tis drinking Sally Birkett's ale.

Brockhole National Park Centre

Brockhole is the Lake District National Park Centre. The large house was built for a Manchester businessman in 1900 and became Britain's first National Park centre in June 1969. The house and gardens overlook Windermere and there is a fine view over to the Langdale Pikes and Scafell Pike. There is a permanent exhibition of Lakeland life and history; there is also a series of film shows throughout the day.

Picnic site, putting green, cafeteria. Open 10 a.m. to 6.45 p.m. Bus service past the entrance from Ambleside and Windermere.

Ambleside information

A town set at the head of Windermere. The pleasure boats which ply along Windermere pick up their passengers at Waterhead Pier. The town is near the centre of Lakeland and throughout the summer is packed with tourists, walkers and locals because of its good selection of shops.

At the head of Windermere, in Borrans Field, are the remains of the Roman fort of Galava. A model of the two forts which were built on the site can be seen at Brockhole. Ambleside is the scene each July of a rush-bearing ceremony when children carry flowers and rushes to church. The ceremony dates back to the time when the church floors were only clay and once a year the rushes on the floors were changed.

On the Keswick road out of Ambleside is Bridge Cottage, a quaint little house situated over Stock Ghyll Beck. It is now used by the National Trust as an information centre. At the other side of the road, look upstream, you can see a water wheel in use. The Lake District History Centre in Lake Road contains a 120 square foot relief map of the area. There are also displays of many facets of life in the Lakes over previous centuries. There is a Dolls House Museum just off the road to the Kirkstone Pass. One of the best short walks in the district is to Stock Ghyll Force, a fine split cascade of water falling some seventy feet into a rock pool.

The path to the waterfall is sign posted from the right-hand side of the Salutation Hotel. Towering above the town, and reached along the same path, is Wansfell Pike, 1,581 feet high, a notable viewpoint. A mile to the west of Ambleside, near the Hawkshead road junction, are White Crags gardens at Clappersgate. The gardens contain rare shrubs, rhododendrons, azaleas and alpine rock plants. They are open at all reasonable times and there is no charge. A mile to the south of Ambleside is the Skell-ghyll nature trail.

There are numerous shops, hotels, inns, garages, banks and cafes. Bus services to Keswick, Windermere, Crear Langdale, Hawkeshead and Conisron. Minibus service over Kirksrone Pass ro Parrerdale and UIlswater, and through Lillle Langdale to Eskdale, Cosforth and Wasdale. Angling: Licences from Cycle Shop, Bridge Street, Ambleside. Tennis. The Lake District Informarion Service issues a leafier describing walks around Ambleside.

Rydal village and Wordsworth

The village has become so well known because of its associations with Wordsworth and De Quincey. It is situated at the eastern end of Rydal Water. The lake and village are in a picturesque setting, surrounded by trees. Rydal Mount was the home of Wordsworth from 1817 until his death in 1850. One of the finest sights in Lakeland is Dora's Field, near the church, when the daffodils are in bloom. Some of the daffodils were planted by Wordsworth himself and he gave the field to his daughter, Dora. In 1935 it was presented to the National Trust by the poet's grandson.

A little nearer Grasmere the road bypasses a cottage. This is Nab Sylvan lakeside scene at Grasmere: swans and boats enjoy a quiet moment. (John Hill). Cottage, at one time the home of De Quincey. He lodged with Farmer Simpson, fell in love with the farmer's daughter, and married her. De Quincey wasn't the only literary character associated with Nab Cottage. The tragic Hartley Coleridge spent the last eleven years of his life at the cottage.

One of the most popular villages in Lakeland. The visitors come to see Dove Cottage, at the eastern side of the main road. This was the house where Wordsworth lived from 1799 to 1808. It is now a museum. De Quincey also lived for a number of years at Dove Cottage. In the cottage Wordsworth wrote The Green Linnet and The Daffodils among other works. In 1802 Wordsworth brought his new wife, Mary Hutchinson, to live in the cottage.

The church is a quaint old building with a raftered roof. It is the scene of a rush-bearing ceremony on the first Saturday in August. In the churchyard can be seen the graves of Wordsworth, his wife, and Dorothy his sister. Not far from their graves lies the grave of Hartley Coleridge, poet, friend of Wordsworth, and son of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Backing on to the churchyard is a quaint old shop selling gingerbread which is made on the premises. The sign outside proclaims: Sarah Nelson's celebrated Grasmere gingerbread, made here for 110 years. The Grasmere Sports usually take place in the third week of August. The sports include hound trails, Cumberland wrestling and the famous guides fell face to Butter Crags and back. There is a studio displaying the works of W. Heaton Cooper and showing Lakeland in its many moods.

There are a number of hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, a perfumery, filling station, post office, toilets, etc. Boats for hire on Grasmere. Bus service to Ambleside and Keswick.

Dunmail Raise information

This is the lowest pass through the mountains and is crossed by a modern road. On the left, going north, is Helm Crag, a small mountain. There are various rock outcrops on the summit; when seen from the road they resemble a lion and lamb and also a large gun. At the summit of the pass, 782 feet, in the centre of the dual carriageway, is a large cairn of stones. This is said to mark the grave of King Dunmail, the last King of Cumbria.

Lake District places to stay

Some of the Lake District´s best hotels and guest houses can be found in the central lakes. Explore Windermere and Bowness, and check out the local spa hotels and boutique hotels which are situated in this stunning part of the region.

Wythburn and Thirlmere

Thirlmere comes into sight as you descend Dunmail Raise towards Keswick. The lake is now a reservoir for Manchester. A road leaves the main road near the head of the lake and passes around the western side. This road gives some fine views across the lake to Blencathra, 2,847 feet, and rejoins thc Keswick road at the foot of the lake.

Lake District towns and villages

2010-03-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

About the Lake District

2010-03-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

The Lake District is one of the most popular regions in England, and Cumbria offers visitors a wealth of beautiful landscapes and things to do and see around the lakes.

The Lake District has more variety of scenery than any other area of its size in Britain. It contains 16 major lakes from Windermere, England's largest lake, to Brotherswater set beside the road over Kirkstone Pass. There are also numerous mountain tarns. Towering above these picturesque lakes are some of England's highest mountains, including all of England's three-thousand footers.

With the M6 motorway passing close to the eastern side of the Lake District, it has brought a day trip within reach of people from as far afield as the Potteries and the Midlands. Good roads also make the area accessible from Teesside, Tyneside and the West Riding and Lancashire industrial belts.

Lake District hotels

Visitors to the Lake District can find plenty of hotels, spa hotels, boutique hotels, guesthouses and luxury B&B accommodation to suit all budgets and requirements. Windermere and Bowness, in particular have some of the best romantic hotels in the region.

The area caters well for the tourist; there are numerous tourist information offices and mobile information caravans. Fine scenery is set practically beside the road. You can still get the feel of being among the mountains without leaving your car, especially in Great Langdale, Buttermere and Wasdale. The finest way to explore the area is undoubtedly on foot. There are many footpaths which lead into quiet valleys and on to mountain tops. This is a particularly fine area for the outdoor enthusiast.
The best map for use in the area is the Ordnance Survey tourist map of the Lake District. In the National Park there are many disused mines. No attempt should be made to enter these mines. They are dangerous and having been disused for many years they could be ready to collapse.

Fishing in the Lake District

There is good fishing in the many lakes and rivers inside the National Park. Among the fish to be found are char, eels, perch, pike, brown trout, sea trout and salmon. A rod licence is always required and permission must be obtained from the holder or lessee of the fishing rights.

Lake District walks

The area is the finest in England for the fell walker. There are over 120 mountain tops over 2,000 feet in height. There are many paths and routes on to the tops of the mountains, and all of Lakeland's peaks are accessible without a rope. No one should go on to the tops without the proper equipment. Boots and windproof clothing should always be worn. You should also carry as a bare minimum a map, compass, whistle (and the knowledge of how to use them), waterproof clothing and some emergency rations.

It is also advisable to leave details of your route with someone.George Fisher's sports shop in Keswick hires out equipment to walkers who do not possess it. In case of accidents there are a number of very efficient rescue teams which can be contacted through the police. For further details see Mountain Rescue and Cave Rescue by the Mountain Rescue Committee, obtainable from most outdoor shops in the area.

Rock Climbing in the Lake District

There are rock climbs of every standard in the Lake District. It has been used as a training ground by many Alpine and Himalayan climbers. The principal centres are Great Langdale, Borrowdale, Pillar in Ennerdale and Wasdale. Great Langdale is a good area for the tourist to see climbers in action from the roadside. A pair of binoculars are handy.

Pony Trekking. There are a number of riding stables in the area which cater for pony trekking; they are listed separately at the end of each town or village. The ride should be booked beforehand and the ponies may be hired by the hour, half day or full day. Some of the centres give tuition, but it is preferable to have some previous experience and suitable clothing should be worn.

Water sports in Windermere

All water sports are catered for: the principal lakes for power boats and water skiing are Ullswater and Windermere. The best lakes for sailing are Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater, Coniston Water and Ullswater. There are sailing clubs at the northern end of Bassenthwaite and on the Howtown road beside Ullswater. Rowing boats can be hired for fishing or pleasure on Bassenthwaite, Buttermere. Coniston Water, Crummock Water, Derwentwater, Esthwaite Water, Grasmere, Loweswater, Ullswater and Windermere. Large pleasure boats operate regular services on Derwentwater, Ullswater and Windermere.
Some of the best towns and lakes to visit in the Lake District include:

Kendal

A large market town with many interesting buildings. For anyone coming to the Lake District from the south, this was, until the opening of the Kendal bypass, the first town they would reach. situated on the A6 it is still worth stopping for a look around. The town has many old houses. There are a number of small courtyards with narrow entrances, possibly a reminder of the days when the Scots came raiding over the border and the courtyards could easily be defended.

There is a pleasant riverside walk along the banks of the river Kent. Overlooking the river to the east are the remains of a Norman castle set on a small hill it is open to the public. The castle was the birthplace of Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII.

The church has an eighty foot tower and four aisles making it appear a large building inside. Behind the church is the Abbot Hall Art Gallery and Museum. The museum is set in a newly converted building and gives a fine display of exhibits and crafts from the surrounding area. The art gallery is housed in an 18th century mansion. In front of the mansion, close to the riverside walk, is a public bowling green. There are two other museums in the town including Castle Dairy, a curious old house with round chimneys. On the southern side of the town is the house where George Romney, the celebrated portrait painter, lived and died.

Windermere and Bowness

The two towns have grown together. The places have become a mecca for people visiting the Lake District. Windermere town is situated on high ground overlooking Bowness and Windermere. The place has many fine large houses built of local stone. Near the railway station, beside the Windermere Hotel, is a path which winds its way to the top of Orrest Head, 784 feet, a fine viewpoint. The Langdale Pikes and many more of Lakeland's mountains can be seen from the top; you can also see the full length of Windermere.

Near the lake, in Bowness, is St. Martin's Church. The church contains some fine stained glass in the east window, including some brought from Cartmel Priory. Close by is the pier, the calling place for the large pleasure boats which operate on the lake.

Looking across the lake you can see the well wooded Claife Heights on the opposite shore. In the lake, close to Bowness, is Belle Isle, the largest of Windermere's islands. Just north of Bowness on the A592 is the Steamboat Museum with a collection of Victorian and Edwardian steam launches. They are kept underere you may see pottery and leather-work being produced, stone cutting and you can try your hand at brass rubbing.

There are numerous shops, banks, cafes and inns. There are boats for hire on the lake. Golf 18 hole golf course. Bowling green. Bus services to Ambleside, Kendal, Newby Bridge and numerous spa hotels, romantic hotels and luxury hotels in Windermere and Bowness.

Belle Isle Windermere

The island is situated in the middle of Windermere, just opposite Bowness. This is the largest of the fourteen islands in the lake and covers 30 acres. It was the scene of a number of fights during the Civil War. The Round House and the gardens are open to the public. The house was built in 1774 by John Plaw. The price of admission includes the cost of the boat trip from Bowness.

Open mid May to mid September, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Winster

Winster is a delightful village of whitewashed houses in a fine rural setting on the Bowness to Lancaster road. The post office is housed in an old cottage dated 1600 with a quaint porch.

Bowland Bridge

The picturesque hamlet of whitewashed cottages stands in the valley of the river Winster where the Kendal to Newby Bridge road crosses the river. A mile to the south is St. Anthony's Chapel at Cartmel Fell. The quaint church was built about 1504 and contains a three decker pulpit dated 1698. Opposite the pulpit are two large family pews for members of two local halls. There is some fine fifteenth century stained glass. In the churchyard there is a circular mounting block with a post in the centre. This was used for throwing the bridles over to stop the horses straying around the churchyard.

Newby Bridge

Newby Bridge is situated on the river Leven, a mile below the foot of Windermere. The Leven is crossed by a narrow, five arched bridge, which has cut outs on the buttresses for pedestrians to take refuge from passing vehicles. On the northern side the river, just over the railway bridge, a path turns off to Finsthwaite Tower, set on a wooded height. The tower was built in 1799 to commemorate the men of the Royal Navy for their defeats over the French, Spanish and Dutch fleets. A mile to the north of the village is Fell Foot Park owned by the National Trust. Graythwaite Hall contains seven acres of landscaped gardens and is open from April to June.

Lakeside pleasure boats

This is the southern landing stage for the pleasure boats which ply up and down the lake. The place is now served by a short private railway which operates from Haverthwaite station on the Newby Bridge to Ulverston road. Trains run along the line to connect with the pleasure boats. The trains are steam hauled and the line gives some fine views of the Leven valley.

The Stott Park Bobbin Mill, close by, is a museum based on the local bobbin industry. Wooden bobbins for sewing threads and other uses were produced in the mill. It was originally powered by water when built in 1835. There is also a coppice walk around the site.

Cartmel information

This is a place full of character. The beautiful priory church was one of the few buildings to escape total destruction at the dissolution and was afterwards restored as the parish church. The tower of the church is set facing the points of the compass. Inside the church is a magnificent oak screen. One of the pillars in the church bears a plaque recording that Rowland Briggs left a gift of money to provide five shillings to the sextant every Christmas to keep his grave unbroken. He also provided enough bread for the local housekeepers, every Sunday, for ever. The bread can still be seen awaiting collection on a shelf.

In the market place is a market cross and the old priory gatehouse. In the upstairs room of the gatehouse, reached by a steep circular staircase, is a National Trust shop and gift centre. There is also a village water pump near the market cross. There is another water pump, dated 1866, near the Pig and Whistle Inn. On the outskirts of the village is a curious sign stating the distances to Lancaster and Ulverston over the sands. This refers to the days when the route to Lancaster crossed Morecambe Bay and the route to Ulverston crossed the Leven estuary. These were dangerous crossings and Cartmel Priory employed a guide to see travellers safely over the rivers.

The 17th century Great Cruck Barn has been converted into a gallery of wood sculptures; a major new sculpture is added to the exhibition each year. Inns: Cavendish Arms, King's Arms, Pig and Whistle, Royal Oak, Priory Hotel. POSI office, store, cafes, craft shop, gift shop, art gallery, antique shop, book shop, toilets, garage. Riding: Birkby Cottage, Cartmel Bus service to Grange-over-Sands, Newby Bridge, Kendal and Ulverston.

Lake District Attractions

There is so much to see and do in the Lake District, that it would be hard to mention just a few of the many attractions. From Go Ape in Grizedale Forest, to the Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness boating on Windermere, you will find a wealth of things to see and do in the region to suit all tastes, budgets and age-groups.

LAKE DISTRICT INFORMATION

2010-03-13T07:33:00.000-08:00

Whether you are planning a romantic weekend in the Lake District or you are planning to visit with the children, you will find plenty of things to see and do in Windermere, Coniston, Grasmere, Ambleside and Bowness, and a wide range of spa hotels, gueshouses and B&B´s to choose from. Some of the best places to visit in the Lake District include:

GRIZEDALE FOREST THE LAKE DISTRICT

At Cockley Beck, those wishing to test their motoring skills on Hardknott Pass cross the bridge over the Duddon. Otherwise keep straight ahead along Wrynose Bottom, source of the Duddon. Three Shires Stone offers a chance to park and stretch the legs before the steep descent into Little Langdale, having exchanged the Duddon for the Brathay. Join the A593 and go south to Coniston, following the road to Hawkshead. Just south of the village is a turning on the right to Grizedale Forest, developed on an 8,000acre (3,200hectare) estate purchased by the Forestry Commission in 1937.

During World War II, Grizedale Hall was used to house prisoners. After the war, the Commission pioneered the concept of a commercial forest to which the public is granted access in order to learn about the countryside and walk along way marked paths, adorned by fascinating sculptures, the work of young artists. From the deer museum, opened in 1956, has developed a visitor centre, forest shop, exhibition and tearoom. Also within the forest is Go Ape!, a high ropes aerial adventure course through the tree tops.

CARTMEL THE LAKE DISTRICT

Cartmel is a town famous for its horse racing and its superb location.Continue to Satterthwaite, Rusland, Bouth and the A590, where you turn left through Backbarrow and Newby Bridge to a right-hand turning for Cartmel. You'll notice, as the village comes into view, the upstanding and carefully preserved Priory, with the curious diagonal extension to its central tower.
The main fabric is original, created in 1188. A mother and son who drowned while crossing Morecambe Bay sands by the old low tide route from Hest Bank are buried next to the font.

Elsewhere in the village is the well-preserved monastic gatehouse, which was in use from 1624 until 1790 as a grammar school. It now belongs to the National Trust and is a Village Heritage Centre. Cartmel Races take place in an attractive parkland area. Grange-over-Sands lies just over the hill.

LAKE DISTRICT LANDSCAPES

Renowned throughout the world for the landscapes and beautiful scenery, the Lake District continues to attract thousands of visitors every year.Our knowledge of early life in the Lake District was transformed in 1947 by the discovery of pieces of chipped volcanic rock on the 2,000ft (600m) scree slope of Pike o'Stickle at the head of Great Langdale. This proved to be the site of a prehistoric axe factory, the first major Lake District industry, operating in Neolithic times, some 4,000 years ago.Until this find, it had been thought that penetration of Central Lakeland had occurred much later.

At Pike o'Stickle, and various other places in the high fell country, pieces of tuff, a particularly hard rock, were 'roughed out' with hammers made of granite. Then they were taken to the coastal strip for final shaping. Langdale rock was traded throughout the country. The Great Cum brian Axe was set to work to thin out the old forest, which extended far up the hillsides.
The Mesolithic folk had been hunters, their dreams haunted by such images as the red deer. In Neolithic times, people were clothing themselves with wool from the crag sheep, and burial urns were being used.

When the Romans swept north in the first century AD, the Lake District (like most of the North Country) was tenanted by a tribe known as the Brigantes. The most memorable of the ancient sites of the Lake District is that of a Roman fort beside Hardknott Pass It stood beside a road connecting Ambleside with the natural harbor at Ravenglass. The appreciable remains of the fort are on a spur of land at an elevation of 800ft (244m). Archaeologists affirm that the builders of this fort came from the Balkans.

LAKE DISTRICT ARCHITECTURE

Pele towers, three storey’s high and considered impregnable, are distinctive early tone structures, now (in most cases) forming the core of much larger buildings, as at Levens Hall, Sizergh Castle and Kentmere Hall.

At Burneside the pele tower, adjacent to a farmhouse, is partly ruined and gives an insight into the fine details of its construction. Pele towers date from the 14th century, when local people sought protection from repetitive Scottish raids. The circular chimneys so highly praised by Wordsworth were not so much for show as the best way of using irregular stones. Large houses of early date include Coniston Hall, with its cluster of circular chimneys above open hearths (to be seen after a short walk from the Gondola's pier at Coniston Water).

In the 17th century, with the Border troubles over and Lakeland families having security of tenure, there was a widespread reconstruction of farmhouses. A typical 17th century Lakeland farm was built of stone and slate wrenched from quarries near at hand, with small windows and a stout porch to protect the front door from the searching wind. Some, as at Hartsop and Yew Tree Farm near Coniston have 'spinning galleries'.Most of the dale-head farms are now owned by the National Trust. An outstanding example of a Lakeland yeoman's home is Townend at Troutbeck.

Apart from the typical Lakeland farms and cottages constructed, sometimes with difficulty, from the native stone and slate, the Lake District was the setting for some distinctive architectural forms imposed on it by outsiders and usually criticized by the neighbors for doubtful, if not bad, taste. One such structure is the Round House on BeJJe Island, Windermere, built on a whim by Mr English in 1774, badly damaged by fire in recent times and now in the course of reconstruction.

The most famous 'odd' building in the Lake District must be the Bridge House, sitting over a stream in Ambleside, which many people falsely claim was built by a Scotsman who wanted to avoid paying ground rent.

WILLIAM WORDSWORTH AND THE LAKES

Lakeland literature was made famous by Dorothy and William Wordsworth, brother and sister, who were born at Cockermouth and sojourned for a while in the South and returned to live in the Lake District, at Dove Cottage, Grasmere, in 1799. Dorothy's prose work is best seen in her Journal. Apart from his immense output of verse, William wrote a perceptive guide book about the area. Wordsworth and his friends, including Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Southey and Thomas De Quincey, became known as the Lake Poets. Southey, who settled for a while in Keswick, was appointed Poet Laureate in 1813.

The Lake District was home for an appreciable period to John Ruskin (at Brantwood, above Coniston Water), Hugh Walpole (at Brackenburn, near Grangein Borrowdale), Arthur Ransome (who drew partly on memories of childhood holidays at Nibthwaite, by Coniston Water for his Swallows and Amazons and many other books) and Beatrix Potter (Sawrey, near Hawkshead).

A stylish writer in prose and verse who drew much of his creative strength from contemplation of the basic rocks of the Lake District and life in his native, industrialized Millom, was Norman Nicholson. Lakeland novels were produced by Graham Sutton, who lived near Keswick. In his classic Fell Days, he reproduced his hilarious short story, 'The Man Who Broke the Needle', a reference to the celebrated 'stack' on the flanks of Great Gable.

LAKE DISTRICT ART

To list the artists who have been inspired by the Lake District would be to risk writer's cramp. They include the incomparable J.M.W. Turner, who on a tour in 1797, with the Romantic Age in full swing, produced Morning amongst the Coniston Fells (Tate Britain, London). Engravings and drawings in vast numbers were produced commercially by William Green, who settled in AmbJeside a few years later. John Constable, on a single visit (in 1806) made many sketches and watercolors but later confessed he had found the mountains oppressive.

Of modern artists, Delmar Banner had a genius for presenting Lakeland fells wrapped in cloud. A special tribute should be paid to the Cooper family. At the Heaton Cooper Studio in Grasmere is a permanent exhibition of water colors and a large collection of color reproductions of the Lake District by W. Heaton Cooper and his father, A. Heaton Cooper.

BYGONE LAKE DISTRICT

For centuries, the Lake District proper was a secluded, little-known corner of England, too close to the Scottish border for comfort, and keeping largely to itself. Sheep farming was a primary activity, and entertainment was homespun. Lakelanders developed a love of sport, song and dance (to the strains of fiddle or accordion). Vital events such as the shepherds' meet, when stray sheep from the 'gathering' were returned to their rightful owners, saw an explosion of local feeling in foxhunting and, later, hound trailing. At the end of the day, the Cumbrian dalesman resorted to hard drinking, lusty singing, and much eating of tatie pot (a local meat and potato stew).

Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, which is claimed to be the type used when Jacob wrestled with the Angel, demands brains as well as brawn and began with schoollads 'takking 'od' (taking hold) on a village green. Such wrestling became respectable when it was to be seen at the Grasmere Sports, held in August, which was patronized by Lord Lonsdale from Lowther Park. Among the more bizarre forms of expression which once was in vogue and now survives at Egremont was gurning (pulling the funniest face) through a braftin (horsecollar). A novel event in Santon Bridge, attended by much drinking and hilarity, is a competition to find t'biggest liar, thus keeping alive a tradition dating back to Will Ritson, of Wasdale Head, a teller of outrageous tales.

The church has conserved much of the local culture. The Rush bearing dates back to the days when churches had earthen floors and on a specified day freshly cut rushes were spread on the ground. Rush bearings at Ambleside and Grasmere attract large crowds.

MODERN LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District today is much different from the days of Victorian visitors, and although much of the landscapes and lakes remain the same, there is much more to do and see in Cumbria today than there was in the days of early tourism to the area. Windermere and Bowness boast a wealth of boutique hotels, guesthouses, B&B´s and some of the most famous Lake District attractions including the Beatrix Potter Attraction, Boat trips on Windermere, horse-riding, Lake District walks and some off the best restaurants, bars and hostelries this side of the Lake District. Whatever time of year you decide to visit the Lake District, you will always find plenty of things to see and do.

SOUTH WEST LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

Great places to visit in the south-west Lake District include: Grange-over-Sands, Ulverston, Duddon Valley, Wrynose, Grizedale and Cartmel.The tide sweeps across Morecambe Bay with the speed of a good horse. It performs pincer movements round the sandbars and spreads itself languidly over the mudflats. In a short time, what had been a damp desert is an arm of the sea, choppy and chilling. Then, with another turn of the tide, the bay is once again what someone called a 'wet Sahara', though this is no desert.

On the mud banks thrive small creatures that sustain dense flocks of wintering birds. Years ago, the bay at low tide would be alive with fisher folk from the villages who, with horses and carts and tackle, sought cockles, mussels, dabs, flukes and, of course, the famous Morecambe Bay shrimps. North of the bay are limestone hills and beyond them the high fells. Journey in this area is ever-varied.

GRANGE-OVER-SANDS

Grange-over-Sands is on the B5277 which loops off the A590 halfway between Levens and Newby Bridge. It began as a monastic 'grange' or granary, but a stimulus to the development of Grange took place when it was connected to the rail network in 1857. The Victorian and Edwardian holidaymakers it attracted, and that muddy beach, ensured it would not grow into a major holiday resort. It would remain a place for discerning folk, on whom it thrives today. The architecture of the station, the formal park with its bird busy lake, the elegant shops with their cast-iron canopy, and the cosy retro tearoom on the promenade, appeal to those who remember a more gracious age A clock tower makes a brave attempt to give the town a focal point.

Those of an athletic inclination find pleasure in heading up bank from the clock tower, following the signs for Hampsfell, with its restored shelter cum observation point that offers a fine weather view of distinction, taking in Ingleborough and other Yorkshire peaks as well as those of the Lake District. A footpath, with views of the bay, leads from Grange to neighboring Kents Bank.

Drive to Allithwaite, and from there follow the road westward to Flookburgh. The promontory to the left is Humphrey Head, the highest point on the west coast between Wales and St Bees Head. Flookburgh, a mile or so inland from Morecambe Bay, was a village of horse and cart fisher folk, who operated on the bay at low tide. Shrimps were caught by a trawl net with a beam. As the beam approached shrimps in one of the channels, they jumped straight into the net. Cockles by the ton were once transported in sacks from the railway station at Cark. Notice, as you drive towards Cark, the next village, that the weathervane on the church is a gilded fish, not a cockerel.

HOLKER HALL

Holker Hall lies just beyond Cark. The splendid home of the Cavendish family dates from 1871, replacing a previous building that was gutted by fire. Red sandstone was used to create a building which has a markedly Elizabethan style. Part of the old 17th century house remains. It was the home of the Preston family, benefactors of Cartmel Priory. Holker is set in an award winning garden which, in turn, lies within a deer haunted park. Joseph Paxton, designer of the Crystal Palace, was invited to plant the 'monkey puzzle tree' (Chilean pine).

It has reached an enormous size and is pinned down for stability, having once been blown over in a gale. The venerable Holker Lime, listed as one of 50 Great British Trees, is here too. Holker Hall is the venue for a noteworthy annual garden festival. Outbuildings at Holker hold the Lakeland Motor Museum (opening hours the same times as Holker Hall). More than 150 classic cars are on view, together with an exhibition on the Campbell water speed legend and Bluebird, a boat with a revolutionary design.

LUXURY HOTELS AND BUDGET HOTELS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

Whether you want to stay in the heart of the Lake District in Windermere, Coniston, Grasmere, or further out at Ulverston or Maryport, there are plenty of luxury hotels and budget hotels in the Lake District to choose from. You can enjoy a stay close to all the attractions of Windermere or book a romantic weekend in the Lake District in Bowness. Wherever you stay, you will be within easy driving distance of all the main Lake District events and attractions.

ULVERSTON THE LAKE DISTRICT

The road from Holker unfolds in long straight stretches and winds through an almost-flat but intriguing landscape, beloved of naturalists. The road joins the A590, and a turn left leads beside the Leven Estuary, where the overflow from Windermere mixes with the salty tide. Continue through Greenodd and on to Ulverston, which has a distinctly nautical flavor. The ship canal from the bay was built by John Rennie in 1796, but is now in effect a static water tank for Glaxo Wellcome. The Lakes Glass Centre offers the chance to see glassware being produced by traditional methods. Ulverston has become widely known for its Laurel and Hardy Museum as Stan Laurel was a native of the town.

SWARTHMOOR AND DALTON

Continue on the A590 to Swarthmoor, an Elizabethan hall of major interest to Quakers. George Fox, founder of the Society of Friends, was a frequent visitor from 1652 when the hall was owned by Judge Thomas Fell and his wife, Margaret. When the judge died in 1658, the immunity he had secured for Quakers lapsed and they were persecuted. Margaret later married George Fox, and both suffered hardship and imprisonment for their beliefs.

At Dalton-in-Furness, the so-called castle is a 14th-century tower with monastic links standing in the main street. It was built by the Abbot of Furness when Scottish raiders were troublesome. On the dissolution of Furness Abbey (see below), some of its attractive red sandstone was transported to Dalton to repair the tower, which became a prison and courthouse. Dalton had its economic heyday in the 19th century with the growth of ironstone mining and the lifting of 7 million tons of ore from local mines.

Today, the town is more widely known for the South Lakes Wild Animal Park. This is described as Lakeland's only zoological park. Species on show range from free flying parrots to Sumatran tigers. Recent arrivals include pygmy hippos and black footed penguins.

FURNESS ABBEY DALTON

Furness Abbey is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Lake District.Not far from Dalton, to the left of the A590 and on the edge of mighty Barrow, a short, constricted road leads under a monastic arch to the outstanding remains of the Abbey. Originally founded in 1127 by monks of the Order of Savigny, Furness later joined the Cistercians and became one of the richest abbeys in the land. The area became known as the Vale of Deadly Night shade because of the profusion of those plants.

The Abbey's extensive remains, on a 73-acre (30-hectare) site, are breathtaking. Rosered sandstone stands out against the green of well manicured lawns. The nave and transepts date from the 12th century, the massive west tower from the 15th century The Dock Museum, sign posted in Barrow, is built over an original Victorian graving dock.

BROUGHTON THE LAKE DISTRICT

The A595 turns northwards, with a gleam from the Duddon estuary to the west. Drive around the estuary to Broughtonin Furness just off the A595. The name Broughton is Old English and means a farmstead or village by a stream. Now there is a settlement with a market square, overlooked by fine buildings, shadowed by trees and with a set of stocks as a reminder of an old-time punishment.

Continue around the side of the estuary and the goose frequented marshes, beneath the brooding Black Combe, to the quaint little Victorian town of Millom, a child of the Furness ironstone boom and the home of Norman Nicholson a poet in the Wordsworthian tradition. His bust bedecks the library, and he is deemed important enough to warrant a section to himself in the adjacent folk museum. Less than a mile from the town of Millom, beside the A5093, are Millom Castle (a pele tower) and a restored 13th century church that hint at the pre industrialized feel of the area .

THE DUDDON VALLEY

Backtrack along the A595, but turn left just before the narrow bridge spanning the River Duddon, and enter the Duddon Valley. The road runs high, offering views across wooded hills, which in the days of Furness Abbey provided timber for the making of charcoal and in the 18th century supplied fuel for an early forge, the substantial remains of which, not far from Duddon Bridge, are preserved. The iron ore was brought up the Duddon, and the forge operated using charcoal made from local woodland, which was clear felled and burnt slowly in 'pits'. Wordsworth wrote a sequence of 35 sonnets about the River Duddon, describing it as 'majestic' and, at Duddon Bridge, making 'radiant progress towards the deep'.

The Duddon frolics between jumbled boulders and the dried fronds of bracken, providing perfect picnic areas, though being secluded the valley does not attract a great many visitors. Humans have lived in these parts for several thousand years, judging by sepulchral mounds on the flanking hills from which have been taken calcified bones.

SEATHWAITE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Seathwaite was a Norse name derived from 'clearing of the shieling'. Robert Walker who was curate at Seathwaite for well over 60 years, became known as Wonderful Walker because of his thrift and industry. Although on a stipend of only a few pounds a year, he had managed to accrue £2,000 by the time he died at the age of 92. His wife, who was equally thrifty, died in the same year. The curate is commemorated by a plaque in the local church.

THE WESTERN LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:27:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a Lake District hotel, and you want to explore the central and western Lake District, consider one of the many guesthouses or spa hotels in Ambleside, Windermere, Hawkshead or Coniston and make the most of your stay in this beautiful area of the lakes.

Great Langdale doesn't have a lake, but it has all the other attributes of a picturesque Lakeland valley - a beck, green fields hatched by dry stone walls, and mountains blocking out more than half the sky. The passes of Wry nose and Hardknott are not for the timid, but they allow a motorist to go mountaineering without special effort.

The western Lake District is out of the way but worth the effort. One of the truly great sights is the Screes beyond Wastwater, preferably lit by a setting sun, draped like giant fans from a 1 ,700ft (520m) long cliff the southeastern buttress of sprawling Scafell. Elsewhere, the prominent features are sternness and sterility. As Thomas Wilkinson, a visitor in 1824, wrote: 'The mountains of Wast Water are naked to their base their sides and their summits are uniform; their summits shoot up into lofty points and end in the form of pyramids.'

GALAVA FROM AMBLESIDE

At Borrans, near the head of Windermere, stood a Roman fort named Galava. It was commented on by Cam den, who bravely entered these parts in 1586. He saw 'the carcase as it were of an ancient city with great ruins of walls, and of buildings without the walls still remaining scattered about.' Now there is just an expanse of grass. To visit the area is an appropriate prelude to the first part of this route, which takes in the high passes of Wry nose and Hardknott, where a Roman road connected them with Ravenglass, a natura] harbor on the Cumbrian coast.

LANGDALE VALLEY LAKE DISTRICT

Follow the A593 through Skelwith Bridge and take the B5343 for Great Langdale, which bursts into view near Elterwater. Across the common and beyond the woodland rise the Langdale Pikes, one of the most distinctive landforms in the district. Elterwater has a large car park near the river bridge and a smaller car park (property of the National Trust) on the west side of the common, which is a grazing area for Herdwick sheep. The evidence of slate quarrying is everywhere, and a terrace of slate dwellings overlooking the common is unusual and attractive. There are few visible remains of the old gunpowder factory that supplied the quarries. In its place is a large and attractive timeshare complex.

LAKE DISTRICT HOTELS

Lake District hotels are well situated throughout the region, and if you are planning to go walking in the Lake District, hiking, horse riding or visiting local attractions, the best place to base yourself is Windermere, Coniston or Hawkshead to make the most of this stunning area. Romantic hotels and guesthouses can also be found in Bowness, and boutique hotels in the Lake District are among the best in England.

GREAT LANGDALE LAKE DISTRICT

Great Langdale proper is entered at Chapel Stile, in which the most prominent building is Holy Trinity Church. The church stands on a hill as though on a ledge, which means that churchgoing requires physical as well as spiritual stamina. In the churchyard is the grave of G.M. Trevelyan, author of English Social History, a classic book published in 1944.

Beyond the village, Thrang Crag and the residues of slate quarrying are prominent. So is a terrace of houses and holiday flats. A road to the quarry begins near a craft shop, but it is unwise to explore redundant quarries without taking local advice and wearing a stout helmet.

The Langdale Pikes dominate the dale with the impact of a Sphinx. Three fells are seen, these being Harrison Stickle (the highest, at 2,414ftI736m), Pike 0' Stickle and Pavey Ark, and there are five summits in the group. The Pikes can be ascended, with some effort, from the New Dungeon Gill Hotel. Car parking seems ample, but in summer it is in the keenest demand. Near the foot of Pavey Ark's 600ft (200m) cliff is Stickle Tarn which, dammed in 1824, provided a constant head of water, via the river, for the gunpowder works at Elterwater.

THE LAKE DISTRICT STEAM RAILWAY

The road descends to the head of the Duddon Valley, where Hardknott Pass (more fearsome than Wry nose) begins its course to Eskdale with a steep gradient and a quick succession of hairpin bends, delivering the motorist to an elevation of 1,291ft (394m). Care is needed during the descent. Beside the road, on a plateau looking into Eskdale, are the considerable remains of Mediobogdum, a Roman fort. There is space beside the road on which to park the car. Wordsworth, in one of his sonnets about the River Duddon, pictured an eagle flying over the ruins of a fort 'whose guardians bent the knee to Jove and Mars'.

Eskdale, though lakeless, extends with a quiet charm down to Boot, where the holiday spirits of many are buoyed up by the the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (affectionately known as 'Ratty').
At Eskdale Green, a narrow, unclassified road leads to Santon Bridge and on to Nether Wasdale, where the grandeur of Wasdale is unfolded. Alternatively, travel down to Ravenglass, where the Romans took advantage of a fine natural harbor. Here, Ratty, England's oldest narrow gauge steam railway offers the chance to visit, in novel fashion, Muncaster Water Mill. The railway operates daily from March to October, with special days around Christmas and winter weekends.

On the journey through Wasdale, firstly there is a view of Wastwater, which has a cold, blue appearance. Wastwater is almost sterile and the least changed of the great lakes since they were formed by the scouring of glacial ice. The lake is very deep and in places extends below sea level. The famous Screes, to which reference has been made, are part of a 3mile cliff on a fell known as Ill-gill Head The road, in places unfenced, stays close to the northern shore of the lake and is fringed by sheep cropped herbage and gorse, the yellow blossoms of which enliven the district in spring. Where visitors stop, there are usually black-headed gulls, their raucous cries instilling a little life into the rock scape.

The glorious scenery unfolds slowly as the journey proceeds. On the left is Yewbarrow, which is not much higher than 2, 000ft (600m) but has a 'mountain' appearance. It is a long drag over grassy terrain to get to the summit, which is a vantage point for the really big fells of the dalehead. However, they can also be seen and admired from a car. At centre stage is Great Gable in the form of a rugged pyramid, which confirms everyone's impression of what a mountain should be. Gable's companions are Kirk Fell to the left and Scafell Pike (At least, that's how it seems from the floor of Wasdale Valley), though Scafell Pike is the highest peak in England.

WASDALE HEAD THE LAKE DISTRICT

Wasdale Head is a surprise to those who expect a dale to get narrower and rockier as it comes to its head. For here is a great tract of alluvial soil, thatched in lush green, overlaid by an intricate (and altogether fascinating) pattern of dry stone walls. So much stone was cleared from the land that a lot was simply heaped up and walled around. The Wasdale Head Inn has rooms decked with photographs of early climbers. There is also a Ritson Bar, named after Will Ritson, an archetypal dalesman who told 'tall' stories and was fond of saying that Wasdale had the biggest mountain, the deepest lake and the biggest liar himself.

VIKING CROSS THE LAKE DISTRICT

On the way from Wasdale, stop in Gosforth to see the 14ft (4.5m) carved Viking Cross in the churchyard at St Mary's. Made of red sandstone and somewhat worn after nine centuries of wind and rain, the cross was raised when paganism was giving way to Christianity. Images from Norse mythology and Christian symbolism are portrayed.

ENNERDALE BRIDGE

At Calder Bridge, leave the A595 for a hill road to Ennerdale Bridge. A stone circle to the right on the moor towards the end of this section is, indeed, a Victorian spoof. A road, ending in a car park, connects the Village of Ennerdale Bridge with the end of the public road by Ennerdale Water.

LAKE DISTRICT WALKS

Walkers on the Coast to Coast route (St Bees to Robin Hoods Bay) and day trippers with plenty of time and energy walk to the head of Ennerd ale. The lower reaches were desecrated by water authority and forestry interests, the period of the massed trees dating from 1927 before the Forestry Commission became 'environmentally friendly'. More recently, the effect has been softened by maturing timber, sensible management and some amenity planting. As the backwoods are left behind, the towering peaks of Great Gable, Kirk Fell, Pillar and Steeple come into view with Hay Stacks rising behind a solitary building, BIack Sail youth hostel.

PLACES TO SEE IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

BUTTERMERE

The road descends from the heights of Honister to Buttermere lake, which is reached at Gatesgarth Farm at the foot of shapely Fleetwith Pike A car park just across the road from the farm is handy for those who wish to explore the dalehead. Others go on to the Fish Hotel at Buttermere village, where (wrote Joseph Bud worth in 1792), 'If you are fond of strong ale, I must tell, Buttermere is reckoned famous for it.' The tale is told of Mary Robinson, the 'Buttermere Beauty'; she was the daughter of a landlord of the Fish Hotel in the early 19th century and was noted for her looks.

Budworth saw her: 'She brought in part of our dinner, and seemed to be about fifteen. Her hair was thick and long, of a dark brown, and, though unadorned with ringlets, did not seem to want them; her face was a fine oval, with full eyes and lips as red as vermillion; her cheeks had more of the Iily than of the rose.' Mary attracted the attention of a 'gentleman' who introduced himself as the Hon. Alexander Hope MP, brother of the Earl of Hopetown. They were married in 1802. Unfortunately, the Hon. Alexander turned out to be John Hatfield, an imposter, bigamist, forger and bankrupt. His iniquities led to him being hanged at Carlisle. The Buttermere Beauty later married a local farmer.

NEWLANDS THE LAKE DISTRICT

It is possible to walk around Buttermere Lake, though one of its features, a tunnel cut in living rock, has been closed for safety reasons. When Rawnsley did the 'Buttermere Round', a break was arranged for lunch at Buttermere village. There was time to visit 'the tiny church, with its 12 steps in memory of the Apostles'. Follow the road up past the church for the third and final leg of the journey. Newlands Hause used to warm up the coach horses, and the most athletic passengers would be asked to walk beside the coach in order to lighten the load.

Newlands is a secluded valley, almost a basin among fells, with many farms and two tiny hamlets, Stair and Littletown, the last-named being well-known to Beatrix Potter, who included drawings of it in The Tale of Mrs Tiggywinkle. The mine levels dri ven into the flanks of Catbells and Maiden Moor were worked in the days of Queen Elizabeth 1. They yielded copper, lead and even a little gold.

SKIDDAW INFORMATION

Walkers who cross the fell or follow a good path from near the old Sanatorium at Threlkeld to Skiddaw House sample an austere landscape 'Back 0' Skidder'. Almost every creature that breathes is a sheep. Astonishingly, Skiddaw House, built for the use of shepherds, is now a youth hostel in season, with an out-room available.

Fell Skiddaw slate gives this northern fell country some grand sweeping lines, as anyone can see who follows the road from Mosedale beside the River Caldew to what remains of mining days at the highly mineralized hill called Carrock Fell. Those who walk the hills can look far south into the valley containing Thirlmere.

In the churchyard of Caldbeck lie the mortal remains of huntsman John Peel, who inspired a world-famous song. (Incidentally, he had a coat so gray the undyed wool of the Herdwick sheep). Westwards lies the market town of Cockermouth and classic Lake District terrain, with soaring fells admiring their reflections in Loweswater and Crummock Water.

CALDBECK THE LAKE DISTRICT

With beautiful open spaces and offering some of the most interesting Lake District walks, Caldbeck offers visitors some of the most spectacular landscapes in the lakes.
On to Caldbeck (meaning cold stream). This area is a vast sheep range also frequented by some of the stocky, dark fell-type ponies once ridden by the shepherds and used for light farm work. Caldbeck, built largely of limestone, is on the northern boundary of the Lake District National Park. Ask locally for directions to the Howk, a limestone gorge popularly thought of as a place for fairy revels, hence the alternative name Fairykirk. Caldbeck drew much of its former prosperity from industries powered by the fast-flowing River Caldew. Local people used to brag about their wealth.

COCKERMOUTH THE LAKE DISTRICT

Cockermouth is one of the most famous Lake District towns, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Take the B5299 over the back of the fell country to the A595 and turn left for Cockermouth, a market town that stands back from Lakeland proper, its red sandstone buildings emphasizing its peripheral status. The town sits at the confluence of the rivers Cocker and Derwent and was given a market charter in 1221.

The broad, tree-lined main street is relatively quiet, having been bypassed by the A66. At the western end is Wordsworth House, now owned by the National Trust, where the poet was born in 1770. Wordsworth's father was steward to the Lonsdales. The house is furnished in the original style and some of the poet's personal effects are on display. Handson displays and characters in costume have been introduced. A memorial window to Wordsworth is to be found in All Saints Church, a Victorian structure with a 180ft (55m) spire and eight bells in the belfry.

The Cumberland Toy and Model Museum, in Banks Court, Market Place, exhibits British made toys from around 1900 to the present day, all from the personal collection of the owner. The museum also has a small shop with some unusual items.

LAKELAND SHEEP AND WOOL CENTRE COCKERMOUTH

The Lakeland Sheep and Wool Centre, by the A66-A5086 roundabout, is open all year round. The centre is a hands-on opportunity for visitors to meet some of Cambria’s most famous residents. Nineteen different breeds of sheep are on view during the indoor presentations, and sheepdogs are put through their paces in a 300-seat arena. In season, shearing is part of the show. The centre has a cafe restaurant.

Several villages in the Cockermouth area have produced famous men. Fletcher Christian, who mutinied on the Bounty, was born at Moorland Close in 1764. John Dalton of atomic theory fame was born in Eaglesfield in 1766. On the coast, Maryport harbor has been restored and has an attendant museum. Opposite the museum is Fishy Tale an amusing iron ore sculpture.

The Lake District may be well known for its scenery, lakes and landscapes, but it also boasts some of the best seaside towns in the north-west of England.

WHITEHAVEN

Whitehaven is a stimulating town, handy to St Bees Head, a Redstone promontory with seabirds. At the Helena Thompson Museum in Workington are displays charting the maritime and social history of the town Workington Hall in Curwen Park refuge for Mary Queen of Scots during her last night of freedom in May, 1568 is a ruin, but plaques give visitors a flavour of this impressive hall's long history, dating from the 14th century, when it was simply a pele tower.

THORNTHWAITE FOREST

Leave Cockermouth on the A5086 and take a left turn for Loweswater. The road follows the shore of the mile long lake and then on another half mile to the village of Loweswater, which is almost shadowed by Mellbreak St Kentigern's Church is not as old as the name suggests, having been rebuilt in Victorian times. Take the B5289 through Lorton Vale and drive to Buttermere village and back to enjoy fine views of Crummock Water.

Continue along the B5289 to High Lorton, and turn right at the B5292 for Whinlatter Pass, passing through Thornthwaite Forest with its Visitor Centre with audiovisual presentation, details of various trails and cycle routes, and tea shop.

MIREHOUSE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Drive around the top of Bassenthwaite Lake via the B5291 and head back to Keswick on the A591. About 31, miles (5km) before Keswick is Mirehouse. This large family home, built in 1666, was last up for sale in 1688. It was extended in 1790, the additions including a stylish porch of red sandstone. Mirehouse has many connections with celebrities in the world of literature and art.
John Spedding lived here; he was a school friend of Wordsworth at Hawkshead. The poet Tennyson stayed at Mirehouse in 1835 and was reported to 'admire the country near the lakes very much, but could dispense with the deluges of sapping rains.' On open afternoons, piano playing can be heard. Some visitors stroll to the edge of Bassenthwaite Lake and look around St Bega's, an ancient church that was restored in Victorian times.

CROSTHWAITE CHURCH NEAR KESWICK

Before driving into Keswick, visit Crosthwaite Church, on the northern edge of the town, where the gateway is adorned by Celtic motifs designed by Canon Rawnsley former vicar of Crosthwaite. Crosthwaite took its name from the cross erected in a clearing by St Kentigern The first church wound have been of wood and thatch, but traces of the Norman buiJding that succeeded it are to be found in the north aisle wall of the present church.

The 6th century was a good time for Keswick, judging by the extensions made to the church. In 1844 it was completely restored under the direction of Sir George Gilbert Scott. Look for the marble figure of Robelt Southey poet laureate at the time of Wordsworth who, incidentally, wrote an epitaph and succeeded his friend as poet laureate. Southey's grave is on the north side of the church.

PLACES TO VISIT IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

However long you plan to stay in the Lake District, take your time to look around some of the quaint villages, famous attractions and wide choice of places of interest in the Lake District. If you are looking for a hotel in the Lake District, check out the spa hotels and boutique hotels in Bowness, Windermere and Grasmere.

THIRLMERE AND HELVELLYN

The A591 unfolds under the gaze of high fells. Castle Rock guards the entrance to St John's in the Vale on the left. The Dodds, crowning the skyline, are to the north of mighty Helvellyn. Steepness does not deter modern walkers, and Thirlspot Inn on the left is one of several starting points from which an ascent of Helvellyn might begin.

Thirlmere, 4 miles (6km) long, may be circum-navigated by the motorist. A plaque on the dam commemorates the beginning of work on the reservoir (22 August 1890), which grew from two small lakes, Leathe's Water and Wythburn Water. The dam holds the water to a depth of 50ft (16m) more than the level of the natural lakes. Thirlmere feeds the water taps of Manchester, some 90 miles (56km) to the south. At times of low water, the bare shoreline may appear unsightly, but the plantations are much more varied now.

DUNMAIL RAISE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Rejoin the A591 for a crossing of the watershed at Dunmail Raise. This ancient pass between Thirlmere and Grasmere has been improved for motorists by a stretch of dual carriageway. A cairn at the top, between the carriageways, explains the name of the pass. It marks where Dunmail, the last king of Cumberland, was defeated in AD945 by Edmund, King of Northumbria.

Dunmail Raise was, until 1974, on the border of Cumberland and Westmorland. There is a good view of the rugged 'mane' of Helm Crag (right) from the lay by on Dunmail Raise. Reaching the summit demands rock-climbing skill and nerve. Wainwright, in his pictorial guide to the area, left a space on which he might write the date of his ascent, but he never managed that last awkward bit. Coachmen driving four-in-hands from Windermere to Keswick entertained tourists by giving names to unusual rocks, the most notable being the Lion and the Lamb, at the southern end of the ridge.

The Raise allows people to hear as well as see further. In the early 19th century, during the Peninsular War, William Wordsworth walked up the Raise from Grasmere, at about midnight, to meet the Keswick carrier and the London papers. They had advance notice of his approach when Wordsworth lay on the ground and listened. De Quincey said this was so he might 'catch any sound of wheels that might be groaning along at a distance.'

GRASMERE AND WILLIAM WORDSWORTH

Grasmere, the heart of Wordsworth country, has several large car parks, one of which is adjacent to Stock Lane and quite close to the field in which the Grasmere Sports have been held in August for over 130 years. There were traffic problems when Beatrix Potter visited the Sports in 1895, for she was a late arrival 'and had difficulty in finding friends among the crowd of carriages'. Lord Lonsdale, arriving via Kirkstone Pass in a yellow painted coach, took special interest in the Cumberland and Westmorland style of wrestling, on which he was an authority.

Wordsworth effusively wrote that Grasmere was 'the loveliest spot that man hath ever found' . Grasmere (the lake, that is, complete with island and rowing boats) lies in what he called 'a mountain urn'. The Vale of Grasmere is virtually ringed by shapely fells, of which the most prominent is Helm Crag. The novelist E.M. Forster, who stayed in the village in the summer of 1907, liked the place though he said 'it rains all night and every day, but not always all day.'

Lake District weather can vary, so always pack a light jacket or coat, even if you plan to visit in summer.Not only is Grasmere famous for once being the home of William Wordsworth, it also offers plenty for non-literary fans to see and do, and the town is full of small shops. The more studious visitors make for St Oswald's Church.

DOVE COTTAGE GRASMERE

Dove Cottage, home of William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy during his early, highly creative years, stands just to the east of the A591, in an area known as Town End. The quaint whitewashed cottage is now hemmed in by much later buildings. The Wordsworths had a view directly over Grasmere and on to the fells, as Dorothy noted in December, 1801: 'We played at cards sat up late. The moon shone upon the water below with his curtains open that he might see it.' Dove Cottage was the Wordsworths' home from 1799-1808. It was a time dedicated to plain living and high thinking. Dove Cottage is particularly appealing in cold weather, when a bright fire burns in the grate.

In the adjacent Wordsworth Museum, a barn conversion, a permanent exhibition recounting the Wordsworth story is backed up by special exhibitions. Dove Cottage has a reciprocal discount scheme operated with Rydal Mount and Wordsworth House at Cockermouth. Grasmere and Rydal Water are connected by a footpath along Loughrigg Terrace. The path can be reached directly from Dove Cottage along a causeway by the road that offers unhindered views of the lake and Helm Crag or via a wood called Bainbriggs, a favorite walk of the Wordsworths.

RYDAL WATER AND RYDAL MOUNT

Rydal Water, which is smaller than Grasmere, is a reedy lake, with several islands and a population of waterfowl. Red squirrels might be seen in the larches. The view for much of the year is given a ginger hue by the dead bracken fronds. Rydal Mount is at the head of the village, near the start of a footpath leading back to Grasmere. William Wordsworth lived here from 1813 until his death in 1850. A descendant now owns the house. After a brief introductory talk, visitors may wander around the house and a 41.1acre (2-hectare) garden, which was landscaped by Wordsworth.

Rydal Church, a 19th-century structure with a memorial to Dr Thomas Arnold, his wife and son Matthew, is adjacent to Dora's Field, which Wordsworth bought and gave to his daughter, Dora. Unhappily, she died and the field reverted to Wordsworth. Pilgrims in April walk between expanses of daffodils and narcissi if the sheep haven't got to them first. Rydal Hall, home of the Le Flemings in Wordsworth's day, is now a conference and study centre for Carlisle Diocese. The gardens are open to the public, and a footpath to Ambleside passes through the park.

THE ROAD FROM KESWICK

The road leaves Keswick to skirt Derwent Water, the 'queen' of English lakes, which has a maximum depth of 72ft (22m), but looks shallow. Near the head of Derwent Water, behind the Lodore Falls Hotel and accessible on payment of a small charge, are the Lodore Falls, about which Robert Southey wrote The Cataract of Lodore first asking how does the water come down then answering in a style which is now familiar to most Lakeland visitors, including: Collecting, projecting Receding and speeding, shocking and rocking and darting and parting.

A visit to the falls is exciting in wet spells. It is said that an American, after looking for them for several hours, sat down and asked a passerby, 'Say, where are the Lodore Falls?' They informed him that he was sitting on them!

GRANGE-IN-BORROWDALE

Grange-in-Borrowdale is reached over a narrow, double bridge. The be church is picturesque both inside and out. Go About a mile from Grange on the road running west of Derwent Water and you will come to Brackenburn, a private house that was owned by Hugh Walpole, author of The Herries Chronicle, three books published in the 1930s, about a Cumberland boy. Though private, its main features can be seen from the road, and above the garage, where he had a study decked by 30,000 books, is a blue plaque commemorating Walpole's association. To him, this was a 'little paradise on Cat Bells', the hill looming beyond. Water drawn from deep in the fell has the tingle effect of good wine. Grange is a good point from which to walk beside the river and through the famous Borrowdale oak woodland. The species of oak is the North Country 'sessile', a reference to the stalk less acorns. The River Derwent has a green appearance the water is pure and the bed of the river is composed primarily of pieces of greenish slate.

BOULDERS AND SCREE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Continue to where there is parking near a sign heralding the Bowder Stone, an enormous boulder with a length of 62ft (19m) and a height of 36ft (11 m). A wooden ladder with rails, fixed against the side of the stone, gives access to its summit.
The road continues between King's How and Castle Crag, which looms above the oak woods on the west bank and is best approached from Grange. Climbing its steep scree slope is not to be undertaken lightly, but with care visitors can reach a supreme vantage point with magnificent views overlooking the oak-wooded valley, Derwent Water and Skiddaw.

ROSTHWAITE

Rosthwaite, a village with a car park and toilets, has a post office with a village store that is popular with visitors. The village is at the start of a footpath leading over the fell to the remote hamlet of Watendlath. Of special interest, west of the river and between Rosthwaite and Seatoller, is the lovely oak woodland, Johnny Wood, in which there is a nature trail.

EAGLE CRAG NEAR STONETHWAITE

Stonethwaite to the left is a hamlet worth exploring, and walking up the dale for a short distance brings Eagle Crag into view. Rosthwaite and Stonethwaite were named by Norse settlers for the amount of stone lying about, aJi of which had to be cleared before cultivation.

The eagles of Eagle Crag were persecuted, as were ravens. Churchwardens' accounts reveal that a bounty was paid on dead birds. The traveler Gray, visiting Grangein Borrowdale in 1769, heard from a farmer how the previous year he plundered the eerie of the golden eagles: 'He was let down in ropes to the shelf of the rock on which the nest was built, the people above shouting and hollowing to fright the old birds, which flew screaming round, but did not dare to attack him'.

LAKE DISTRICT MINES

Mining was once the main industry in the Lake District, long before tourism had such a major impact on the area.The dale peters out at Seathwaite Farm, a mile south of Seatoller, left down a side road. The wettest inhabited farm in England, four generations of Edmondsons have farmed Seathwaite. There is roadside parking, a sheep farm, trout farm and a small cafe. A short walk from Seathwaite Farm is Stockley Bridge, a pack horse type bridge on the route from Borrowdale to Wasdale. There is also a track from Seathwaite barn across the valley to a river bridge, from which an approach may be made to waterfalls in Sour Milk Ghyll. On the hillside are remains of the old graphite mines (which must not be explored because of potential danger). When a pure form of graphite was discovered here in the 16th century, it had various uses.

Being rare and of practical value, including making metal castings and cannon balls, it was treated like gold. In the early 19th century, guards were posted at the mines and workmen were searched before they left. Graphite was eventually to be used extensively in Keswick's pencil industry.

SLATE QUARRIES THE LAKE DISTRICT

Fit men taking the Borrowdale Coach Round in the 19th century had to walk up Honister Pass from Seatoller. Canon Rawnsley, arriving at the head of the pass, saw Honister Crag, which' gleams at us as if some great earth painter had been grinding up grey slate and mixed it with emerald and begun to wash in his color from skyline to the valley bottom.' The slate quarried up here was composed of the compacted dust and ash from volcanic activity. A rough track now runs up the side of Honister Crag, and there is little to indicate that the whole fell is honeycombed by shafts and galleries. For a time, it was customary to pack slate on long sledges and run with the sledges down the screes to the roadside below. The sledge man then had to climb back with his sledge for another load.

Fell walkers park their cars beside Honister Pass when following a comparatively easy route to the summit of Great Gable On Remembrance Sunday, many gather on Great Gable to remember those who fell in two world wars. They stand beside a memorial to those members of the Fell and Rock Climbing Club who were victims in the conflicts.

Lake District hotels are among the best in England, and whether you are planning a romantic break, a weekend away or a week´s holiday, take a look at the spa hotels and guesthouses in Windermere, Borrowdale, Bowness and Grasmere. Campsites in the Lake District are also popular and you will find a range of accommodation close to the main lakes.

BEATRIX POTTER COUNTRY AND THE LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

Wherever you decide to travel in the Lake District, take a trip to see the attractions related to famous children´s author, Beatrix Potter. Hill Top is the farmhouse in Sawrey where she once lived and the Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness is a wonderful attraction for children and adults alike, where her famous characters come to life, including Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddleduck.

Those who think of Lancashire as being an area of dingy towns with forests of mill chimneys might reflect during this journey that for many centuries before local government was regained in 1974, most of the Lake District area belonged to the Red Rose County yet it is a glorious area of gentle hills, lakes and tarns, woodland, white walled farms and cottages. During a royal visit to the Lake District, the Queen had afternoon tea at one of the little whitewashed farms in Yewdale. Beatrix Potter met Peter Rabbit at Near Sawrey.

Tarn Hows, which is frequently portrayed in books and on picture postcards as an example of scenic Lakeland, has a haunting beauty despite being in a sense man-made. The water is retained by a dam to regulate its flow to the Monk Coniston estate. The trees, upstart conifers, impart a resinous smell.

SOUTH FROM AMBLESIDE

The A593 from Ambleside runs to the south of the sprawling, multi- turreted Loughrigg Fell, which is deserving of a visit by itself. Obtain a leaflet at the Bridge House, Ambleside, relating to a 4km nature saunter on the Fell, from which there are stunning views of Ambleside and Rydal Water.

The A593, in its meanderings, offers glimpses of the River Brathay (a Norse name for a broad river), which gathers up near the Three Shires Stone on Wry nose Pass and has transfusions of cold beck water from Little Langdale before presenting a whitewater spectacle. There is a National Trust car park south of Loughrigg Tarn.

YEWDALE NEAR CONISTON

The road to Coniston now climbs between tracts of indigenous woodland at the verge of the crags of the Borrowdale volcanic. A roadside tarn on the right, backed up by conifers, gives the journey a backwoods flavor. The road dips into Yewdale (valley of the yew trees), which is owned by the National Trust. Wordsworth described the valley as 'An area leve las a Lake and spread under a rock too steep for man to tread. The 17th century farms are architecturally outstanding.

THE OLD MAN OF CONISTON

Famous for its lake, Coniston also offers walkers a climbers a wealth of challenging peaks to conquer.
At Coniston, the presiding mountain is The Old Man of Coniston (2,635ft/803m), which can be climbed on a well marked route from the village by good walkers who, in chancy weather, have waterproof clothing. On the way up are many traces of mining and quarries for slate.

JOHN RUSKIN AND THE LAKE DISTRICT

The presiding spirit at Coniston is John Ruskin, whose grave at St Andrew's Church has a Celtic style cross of Tilberthwaite stone, with a design (reflecting his many interests) devised by his secretary and good friend, W.O. Collingwood, another notable writer. Collingwood shares the glory with Ruskin in the Ruskin Museum, founded in 1900. The Museum is a few minutes' walk from the church. Ruskin lived at Brantwood, east of Coniston Water, from 1872 until his death in 1900.

Brantwood may be reached by road from Coniston or, as indicated, by the steam yacht Gondola, which sails from Coniston Pier. If the weather is chilly, visitors can find shelter in the upholstered saloon. The original design for this 1859 steam launch was approved by that great arbiter of good taste, John Ruskin.

It lay wrecked in Nibthwaite Bay for many years but was rescued by the National Trust and given an extensive restoration. Notice how the steam engine is responsive and quiet as the craft glides through the water.

TARN HOWS NEAR CONISTON

A view of Tarn Hows, northeast of Coniston, appears on virtually every calendar with a Lake District content, and is almost as familiar to a Lakeland enthusiast as the back of the hand. Even so, like the Mona Lisa, it might be visited time and again without mental weariness. Tarn Hows is reached by turning left from the Coniston to Hawkshead road down a signposted byroad. A one-way system is in operation.

There is adequate car parking provided by the National Trust, including a car park for disabled people that are much closer to the lake. A good footpath leads around the tarn, which was created about a century ago by building a dam and merging three tarns. The views from the southern side of the lake, where the path takes to higher ground, are quite magnificent.

HAWKSHEAD THE LAKE DISTRICT

Traffic has virtually been eliminated from the narrow streets and squares of Hawkshead. A reflection of the popularity of this wonderful little town, with its white painted buildings, its narrow streets, yards and alleys, is the difficulty in finding space in the large car park.

The Old Grammar School, founded in 1585, is open to the public. William Wordsworth received part of his education here, and he carved his initials on his desk. He lodged with Mistress Tyson either at Hawkshead or nearby Colthouse (there were Tysons in both places). He enjoyed walking and also raven watching.

The poet Wordsworth now takes second place at Hawkshead to Beatrix Potter, whose spirit broods over several shops specializing in her books and related souvenirs, and at the National Trust's Beatrix Potter Gallery. The gallery occupies offices used by Beatrix's solicitor husband, William Heelis. There is an annually changing exhibit of original sketches and watercolors painted by the multi-talented Beatrix.

SAWREY AND BEATRIX POTTER

The Lake District was a magnet for authors and writers, and the most famous residents included Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.Follow the road from Hawkshead to Near Sawrey. Beatrix Potter's first Lake District holiday with her family was at Wray Castle, a Victorian spoof edifice near Windermere. She grew so fond of this quiet part of what was then North Lancashire that she used the royalties from her first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, published in 1900, to purchase HiII Top.Being one of the major attractions of the Lake District, and relatively small, a limited number of visitors will be admitted at any one time. When she married William Heelis, they resided in Castle Cottage (private) in Near Sawrey.

Follow the road to Far Sawrey. The large car carrying Windermere Ferry that now plies the lake is held on course by metal cables stretched from shore to shore. The journey takes only a few minutes. The ferry does not operate in the Winter months. Return to Ambleside by the A592 and the A591.

KESWICK

Keswick, northern capital of the Lakes, presides over Derwent Water and Bassenthwaite Lake; with Skiddaw (locally pronounced Skidder) clearing the 3,000ft/900m contour. Climbing the fell is not difficult, just protracted, and people usually start from Millbeck, near Applethwaite, or from Latrigg. Charles Lamb enthused after climbing it in 1802: its fine black head & the bleak air a top of it, with the prospect of mountains all about & about, making you giddy. Blencathra, its neighbour, provides a backdrop for the sprawling village of Threlkeld. Keswick retains a strong Victorian appearance which belies its age.

The name is Old English for 'cheese farm', the K being a dash of Old Norse. View Derwent Water in its setting of fells and woodland and then try to imagine the conditions over 1,300 years ago, when Herbert, a Christian saint, became a hermit on one of the islands.

Around 1540 the Lake District was industrialized with the arrival of German miners. They were employed to seek gold, but in the end they mined copper. Graphite, discovered in the 16th century and mined in the Seathwaite valley at the head of Borrowdale, has always been useful, but with the arrival of the pencil, Keswick assumed world eminence as a centre of pencil production. Tourism was the next boom.

MANSIONS AND MUSEUMS LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is obviously famous for its lakes, but there is much more to the region than first-time visitors expect. Take a look around the halls, mansions and museums of the Lake District to get a true flavour or the days gone by.

Keswick has a Moot Hall (market hall) which has the grand lines and spired tower of a church (with a one-handed clock) and rises from a traffic island in an area almost entirely devoted to tourism. The Moot Hall itself holds a tourist information centre.

KESWICK MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

This fascinating attraction has a handy situation in Fitz Park and is a good starting point for anyone with an interest in local traditions. Purpose built from green volcanic slate, the museum has a delightful Victorian flavor. Among the exhibits are a scale model of the Lake District letters by the poets Wordsworth and Southey, and Hugh Walpoles' manuscripts.

GRETA HALL

This is the home of Samuel Taylor Coleridge and of Robert Southey in , is now a private home offering bed and breakfast. Of wide interest is the Cumberland Pencil Museum (open daily 9.30am-4pm). Entertaining displays (including the world's largest colorings pencil) relate to the mining of graphite and the making of pencils.

CASTLERIGG THE LAKE DISTRICT

Leave Keswick on the A59 1 and call at Castlerigg, which is well signposted. Here, set on a hill with a wondrous panorama of greater hills all around, 48 grey stones form an oval (not a true circle) about a 100ft (30m) across. Other stones form a rectangle to the east of the main group.

Was Castlerigg the centre of a tribal territory? No one knows. To the Victorian tourists, this was a haunt of Druids, but Castlerigg probably dates back to the much earlier Bronze Age.

FAMOUS PLACES TO VISIT IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

2010-03-13T07:13:00.000-08:00

ULLSWATER

Ullswater is one of the most well known places in the Lake District, and whether you are coming to the region to enjoy the landscapes, the lakes and the fells or simply to soak up the atmosphere of the town, you will not be disappointed.

Ullswater is 8 miles long and has a sinuous appearance and a setting which gets progressively grander with the passing miles. It was on the shore of this great lake that William and Dorothy Wordsworth saw the 'dancing' daffodils. Dorothy Wordsworth jotted in her journal her impressions of 'a few daffodils' close to the waterside. She placed the spot 'beyond Gowbarrow Park' . Wrote Dorothy in 1802: 'They grew among the mossy stones about and about them; some rested their heads upon these stones as on a pillow for weariness; and the rest tossed and reeled and danced, and seemed as if they verily laughed with the wind Between 1804 and 1807, Wordsworth adapted her prose as a poem, beginning: 'I wandered lonely as a cloud .

AIRA FORCE

Aira Force belongs to the National Trust, which has provided adequate car parking facilities. The falls are seen after following a good path that climbs steadily for about a quarter of a mile (0.5km). The slender waterfall tumbles a total of 60ft (18m) in a gorge flanked by trees.

A small stone bridge spans the gorge. The Force has occasionally frozen, becoming an impressive icicle. Gowbarrow Fell (a former deer park) is a place on which to wander, at relatively low elevation, with grand views of Ullswater. Walk on to Gowbarrow by going northwards from the Aira Force car park, then bearing left to the ruins of a shooting lodge. After reaching the summit, continue to the valley of Aira Beck and return via the popular footpath used by visitors to the falls.

Be Glenridding is said to mean 'glen overgrown with bracken'. Since the Greenside Lead Mines closed in 1962, after being worked for three centuries, the area has been landscaped. The village is almost entirely touristy, but attractive. A bridleway links up with a footpath extending to the summit of Helvellyn, a mysterious hill. The name is possibly Celtic, but no convincing derivation has been advanced. A Climb can also be made from Glenridding but this is only advisable if you are an experienced climber.

ULLSWATER STEAMERS – LADIES OF THE LAKE

Ullswater Steamers operates daily services (open all year, weather permitting; closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) and the boats include: Raven, Lady of the Lake, and the smaller vessel, Lady Dorothy. The 'Steamers' sail from Glenridding, Howtown and Pooley Bridge, offering one and two-hour cruises. One-way sailings are ideal for eager walkers exploring the valley, and if you are staying nearby and want to sail around the lakes and stop off at different points, special tickets are available.

Patterdale, between Glenridding and Brothers Water, is named after St Patrick. A local tradition has it that the saint took refuge here after being shipwrecked on Duddon Sands in A0540. The church is dedicated to the saint, who is said to have preached in this area and baptised converts at a lakeside spring.

DOVEDALE AND HARTSOP

Dovedale, a tributary valley, ends on the shores of Brothers Water, an expanse of water under half a mile (0.8km) long and a quarter of a mile wide. The name was formerly Broad Water, but romance invests it with the sad tale of two brothers who drowned when ice broke beneath them. This area is owned by the National Trust. From a car park near the outflow of the lake there is a pleasant walk to the vicinity of Hartsop Hall, a massive 15th century building. On the opposite side of the main road, the village of Hartsop, with 17th century buildings, reclines and a track continues into the Hayeswater Valley, under the massive bulk of High Street. The place name Hartsop means 'valley of the hart', which is apt, for red deer from the 'forest' at Martindale are seen in the area. Hartsop has a workaday farm and some dwellings with 'spinning galleries', where (it is said) spinsters spun wool from the fell sheep.

KIRKSTONE PASS LAKE DISTRICT

Kirkstone Pass is something special in a region rich in superlatives, though the crossing can be dreary in wet or misty weather. Near the summit is Kirkstone Pass Inn, which has evolved from a late 15th century building. The thick-walled, heavy roofed building looks across to the face of Red Screes. There are easier ways than the Screes for anyone wishing to gain the 2,541ft (775m) summit of Middle Dodd. A path from the car park leads northwards for about half a mile to where 'the kirk stone', a 10ft/3m boulder stands on an eminence near the road.

TROUTBECK VILLAGE

On the way down to Windermere, make a diversion to Troutbeck village, with its fascinating B assembly of 17th and 18th century buildings. ' The Mortal Man is an inn with a sign relating to an especially strong ale: Thou mortal man, who liv'st by bread, What is it makes thy nose so red? !Thou silly fool, that look'st so pale, Tis drinking Sally Birkett's ale.
Troutbeck is a great place to explore if you are looking for signs of the old Lake District. Lake District accommodation in Troutbeck and further down in Windermere and Bowness is plentiful, and midweek breaks, special offers in romantic hotels, guesthouses and B&B´s can be found easily online before you travel.

Several roadside wells in Troutbeck are dedicated to saints. At the southern end of the village, and appropriately named Townend, is a superb house, cared for by the National Trust (open April Oct, Tues Fri, Sun, Bank Holiday Mon 15pm or dusk if earlier). Townsend was built by a yeoman in the 17th century and lived in by the Browne family, generations of whom furnished it with an array of exquisitely carved wooden furnishings and a collection of over 1,500 books. The existence of this lovingly preserved library is historically significant.

Continue on the A592 towards Windermere, but look out for a sign relating to Holehird. The mansion, now a Cheshire Home providing care for people with disabilities is not open to the public, but the gardens are maintained by the Lakeland Horticultural Society and can be viewed (open April Oct, 1Oam-5pm). They include a wide range of alpine and rockery plants, and a tree, Davidia, which produces handkerchief like bracts in spring.
Walking in the Lake District and camping in the Lake District are popular pastimes, and there is no better place to base yourself than Troutbeck or Windermere, where you can explore the lakes at your leisure.

At the roundabout on the A591, go right for Ambleside and after passing through Troutbeck Bridge and along a stretch of road flanked by mature beeches, look out for a sign to the left for the National Park Centre, Brockhole. The grounds (open all year), with their splendid views of Windermere and the Langdale Pikes, were designed by Thomas Mawson in 1898. Brockhole offers audiovisual presentations, themed trails, boat cruises, dry stone walling, and exhibits. There is a splendid book shop and a cafe, and this is one of the most popular Lake District attractions.

AMBLE THROUGH AMBLESIDE

Ambleside is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the Lake District.Ambleside has been described as the hub of the wheel of beauty. Roads radiate into the central valleys, and Windermere Lake Cruises operates from Lakeside, a mile away. A trolley service runs between the pier and the White Lion Hotel in the town centre. Ambleside is a mainly Victorian town of splendid slate buildings constructed by craftsmen. The spire Victorian church contains a mural relating to a local custom, the Rush bearing, which takes place in July.

The diminutive Bridge House, beside Rydal Road, spans the beck and is an information centre run by the National Trust. Close by is the glassblowing workshop of Adrian Sankey, and higher up the beck is an old corn mill complete with waterwheel. Market day is Wednesday, when stalls are set up in King Street. Ambleside Museum and Armitt Library presents the history of Ambleside through various exhibits and activities.

STRUGGLE UP THE STRUGGLE LAKE DISTRICT

From Ambleside head back to the Kirkstone Pass, via the steep road known appropriately as The Struggle, which starts opposite the large car park on Rydal Road and crawls up a steep gradient to Kirkstone Pass Inn on the AS92. Look out for the views northward from the pass, which are magnificent. Soaring fellsides, littered with boulders, frame a picture of Brothers Water and the high fells east of Patterdale. Motor on through Glenridding to a point just beyond Watermillock and turn left on an unclassified road, following the signs to Wreay and Dacre.

DACRE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Dacre is something special, being genuine, with no tourist ploys, and having a history which boggles the mind. The church is believed to have been the site of Dacore, a monastery mentioned in Anglian times by the Venerable Bede, who relates that a young man whose eyelid was swelling at a fearful rate had it touched with a lock of the hair Ami of St Cuthbert and within a few hours had been cured. Dacre Castle (not open to the public) dates from the mid-14th century. It became the property of the Hasell family in 1723 and was then restored. A further restoration took place in the 1960s, when it became the home of Bunty Kinsman. Her amusing account of life at Dacre Castle was published in 1971 under the title Pawn Takes Castle.

DACRE CHURCH

In the corners of the graveyard are stone effigies known as the bears, which may have adorned the castle, or possibly marked the corner boundaries of a much older burial ground. The stones are much eroded and some believe that they represent lions, not bears. With this in mind look closely for the faint outline of what could be a man on one of the effigies. In any case, you may follow the story of a 'bear' leaning on a 'ragged staff', then the bear attacked by a creature on its back, and next reaching back to grab the cat. The last bear is in the course of consuming its attacker. The Norman church stands on an Anglian site with clear views of Dacre Castle from the churchyard. From Dacre, head for Penrith.

If you are based in Windermere, you can easily explore the Lake District by car, and you are never too far from anywhere if you want to spend a few days in different towns. Windermere and Bowness hotels include spa hotels, romantic hotels and boutique hotels to suit all tastes and budgets.

Lake District Towns

2010-03-13T07:09:00.000-08:00

One of the most famous lakes in the Lake District, Windermere attracts more visitors than any other town in the region.
Return to Staveley and the A591, turning right for Windermere, which before the arrival of the railway in 1847 was the hamlet of Birthwaite, situated a mile from the lake anciently known as Vinard's Mere. A railway service still operates, though part of the station site is now occupied by a supermarket, with a cafe. There is also a large retail outlet of Lakeland Plastics, with a cafe and car park.

Windermere is very much a Victorian town, with a variety of shops. Continue down Lake Road to Bowness and park in one of the large parking areas by Bowness Bay. Bowness on Windermere is a town around which to saunter. The promenade at Bowness Bay has a gala atmosphere as boats come and go at the various piers, waves lap against shingle, gulls squawk and the majority of swans seem to spend most of the day out of the water, waddling about begging for food. The 'steamers' Swan, Teal and Tern are operated by Windermere Lake Cruises. Their service runs between Lakeside, Bowness and Waterhead (for Ambleside). Windermere Lake Cruises also organizes winter sailings. 'Freedom' day tickets are available.

ST MARTINS CHURCH WINDERMERE

The most historic building, St Martin's Church, has an east window which consists of 15th century glass said to have been brought from Cartmel Priory Belsfield, at one time the home of the Furness industrialist H.W. Schneider, is now a hotel. Schneider's iron hulled boat, Esperance, can be seen, with much else, at the Windermere Steamboats & Museum, which has a pleasant setting on the lakeside half a mile north of Bowness. The museum has the world's finest collection of steamboats, many afloat, some under cover. Of special interest is Dolly, which is the world's oldest mechanically powered boat it was launched in 1850, sank nine years later, and was recovered in 1962.

Weather permitting, steam launch trips are organized on Windermere, and visitors can make the most of the lake by staying locally in one of the many hotels, guesthouses and B & B´s in Bowness.Occupying a central position at Bowness is The World of Beatrix Potter - An exhibition creates the atmosphere of walking through her books and meeting her characters. A tearoom has been added.

BLACKWELL THE LAKE DISTRICT

There are plenty of places to visit in the Lake District, just a short drive from Bowness and Windermere, including Blackwell.
From Bowness, follow the A5074 (which begins opposite the church) to the signposted turning for Blackwell (open mid Feb Dec, 10.30am- 5pm, reduced hours in winter), the Arts and Crafts house designed by M.H. Baillie Scott for a wealthy Manchester brewery owner. Built between 1897 and 1900, Baillie Scott's experiment in light, space and texture has been sympathetically renovated.

LYTH VALLEY LAKE DISTRICT

Return to the A5074 now and proceed through the Lyth Valley, lyth being a Norse word referring to the long slope leading up to the limestone plateau of Whitbarrow. Although it has an A classification, the road has an easygoing manner and offers long views over Windermere.

A few minutes' further south lies Winster, with a much photographed, white walled post office in a house dated 1600. Its environs are a riot of flowers in summer. Just beyond Winster, the name of a roadside hotel, Damson Dene, draws attention to a famous product of the Lyth Valley, the damsons, which have a nutty flavor. Ripe by September, some are eaten immediately; others are preserved as jam and yet more go to make gin.

In May its worth driving down the valley and back again to see the glory of damson blossom, which in a good year gives an impression of a light fall of snow. Take your time to explore the spectacular countryside around the towns.

Near Damson Dene, an unclassified road on the right leads to Bowland Bridge. Continue up the hill beyond the bridge, where a signpost indicating Cartmel Fell Church is seen. In summer, the church is hidden behind the trees. The building dates back to the early 16th century, when it was a chapel in the parish of Cartmel, a village about 7 miles away.

Return to Damson Dene and take the road that goes straight to Crosthwaite on the northern side of the Lyth Valley. There is no Lyth Beck, just two little rivers, one called Pool and the other Gilpin. This part of the Lake District is in delightful contrast with the austere fell country. There are relatively small fields, lots of trees and some hedges as well as walls.

ULLSWATER AND KIRKSTONE PASS

Offering incredible landscapes, Ullswater and Kirkstone Pass are among the most popular regions for walkers and hikers in the Lake District.Ullswater stretches from craggy volcanic fells to an altogether softer landscape resting on friable Skiddaw slate. The fells assembled around the upper reach appear to leap straight from the water, like mountains from a Norwegian fjord. There was once a passion, on the part of those with taste and leisure, to shatter the silence and listen to the echoes. The Duke of Portland mounted some brass guns on a boat. One who heard about it suggested that the Duke might 'let a few French horns and clarionets be introduced.' Unlike other lakes, Ullswater has two bends, giving it a shape rather like a dog's leg. The name is Norse, meaning Ulfr's lake although which Ulfr gave his name to the lake is hard to say, as the name was common among the Norse settlers.

KIRKSTONE PASS LAKE DISTRICT

If you are looking to explore the true beauty of the Lake District, take a stroll around Kirkstone Pass.The area takes its name from a large pointed rock, said to resemble a kirk. The road is the A592. It crests at 1,489ft (454m), but is kept er open throughout the winter when some other high Lakeland passes are left to the snow dogs. Early tourists who wrote about their experiences on Kirkstone Pass chilled their hearers.

On the route described here, Kirkstone is crossed twice, the second time being from south to north, when the views across the fells are most dramatic.

PENRITH CUMBRIA

Penrith offers visitors some of the most fascinating museums, monuments and Lake District history in the region.Lying just off the M6, Penrith has about it a ruddy tinge from red sandstone. The town name relates to a crossing point of the Eamont, the outflow of Ullswater. The market tradition which began in the 13th century had a modern expression in the recent creation of an auction mart near the big M6 roundabout. The l4th century Castle is a picturesque stump, with grassed over moat, in a park near the railway station. No charge is made for a visit.

Georgian St Andrew's Church dates from 1722. In the churchyard are up reared stones known as the Giant's Grave and associated in legend with an ancient Cumbrian king. The Romans had an important fort at Brougham, a mile or so down the road towards Appleby. Brougham Castle (English Heritage) is the former home of the Clifford family. Just off the A6 south of Penrith is the Estate of the Lowthers, Earls of Lonsdale, whose family name was bestowed on the River Lowther.

Rheged The Village in the Hill reached from the M6 at Junction 40, using the Keswick Road, is named after Cumbria’s Celtic Kingdom. Europe's largest grass covered building contains a cinema, artist’s exhibitions, shops and several places to eat. The Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre has a wide collection of hawks, eagles, owls and falcons and offers daily falconry displays.

DALEMAIN LAKE DISTRICT

Leave town by the Keswick road (A66) and at a roundabout bear left (A592) for Pooley Bridge and Ullswater. The mansion seen to the right of the road, 3 miles (5km) from Penrith, is Dalemain , home of the Hasell family since 1679. Dalemain is really three houses in one: it is Georgian in outward appearance, the facade hides an Elizabethan house, and at the core of the building is a Norman pele tower. A herd of fallow deer occupies a walled park behind the house.

Where the A592comes in sight of the lake, bear left for Pooley Bridge, which has a backdrop of a wooded hill called Dunmallet (dun indicating a hill fort). A fastflowing river, the Eamont, is In a tributary of the Eden (car park by the river, near the narrow road bridge).

Windermere attractions

2010-03-13T07:05:00.000-08:00

Away from the madding crowds, visitors to the Lake District can find some incredible places to explore near the shores of Windermere.

Southeast Lakeland lacks the drama of up jutting and craggy volcanic rocks, such as may be seen in Central Lakeland. But, tucked away among its quieter hills are fascinating places. In the limestone country a few miles south of Kendal are Levens and Sizergh, two contrasting stately homes. Real tranquility can be found in picturesque Kentmere. This valley is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy some of the best Lake District Walks and hikes.

The destination on this route is Windermere, England's largest lake. The old steamers (now running on diesel) ply the lake and take the visitor to within sight of the rock turrets of the Langdale Pikes. Bowness Bay, a bustling place with some great hotels, guesthouses and bed and breakfast accommodation, which the writer Arthur Ransome referred to as Rio, has a fascinating waterfront and the country's finest collection of steamboats. The return to Kendal is through the Lyth Valley, back in limestone country. The limestone gives a special flavor to the fruit of a profusion of damson trees, which are white with blossom in May and boughbent by fruit in September and October, one of the best times to visit the lakes. Some of the best places to visit in the Lake District include:

A TRIP TO LEVENS HALL

Having left the M6 at Junction 36 for Kendal, follow the A591 as far as the intersection with the A6 then turn left for Levens Hall. This unusually proportioned house, home of the long-established Bagot family, proclaims its great age. A 13th century pele tower was incorporated into an Elizabethan mansion by the Bellinghams. Then a kinsman took over Levens: Colonel Graham, whose great contribution to the house was intricate furnishings, Jacobean style, set off by paneling, plasterwork and a range of fine art. Graham also commissioned the gardens, which are stunning and were designed by Monsieur Beaumont, the King's gardener, in 1690.

The original plans have survived, so the garden is true to the original concept. Light refreshments are served in the house. Just across the road from Levens Hall is parkland, adorned by venerable trees and open at all times there are public footpaths. To be seen in the park are dark phase fallow deer and black and white Bagot goats.

SIZERGH CASTLE CUMBRIA

Head back on the A6 until you reach the sign for Sizergh Castle, a Norse name meaning 'Sigrid's shieling'. Once the home of the Stricklands, Sizergh is now owned by the National Trust. As at Levens, the core of the building is a 13th century pele tower, and this was extended into a fine Elizabethan house. Of special note are the Elizabethan carved over mantels. Also on view are English and French furniture, and Stuart period portraits.

The garden, largely 18th century in character, has a large rockery which attracts thousands of visitors, and two small lakes. The grassland is kept in a natural state, and in spring and summer it is bright with bulbs and lime stone loving flowers, including orchids.

Kendal is easy to reach and lies just outside the Lake District National Park. The wool trade transformed the town and led to the construction in the 18th century of many small yards, some good examples of which remain and are worth exploring.
Kendal is now celebrated outside the Lake District as the home of Mint Cake, a slabby, mint flavored confection widely used by walkers and climbers but available to all. Park the car and follow one of the Discover Kendal trails, details of which are available from the Tourist Information Centre.

LAKE DISTRICT MUSEUMS

A broad riverside path west of the River Kent is traffic free and leads to Abbot Hall Art Gallery and Museum of Lakeland Life. Here is an outstanding collection of fine art, shown on a rotation basis, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and portrait painter George Romney (1734-1802). There are also interesting historical displays, with two rooms devoted to the life and work of Arthur Ransome (1884-1967), the author of Swallows and Amazons. Visit also the Kendal Museum near the railway station. This museum has imaginative displays relating to archaeology and natural history. There is a section comprising items associated with Alfred Wainwright, the celebrated guidebook compiler.

THINGS TO SEE IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

As well as Lake District walks, hikes, events and plenty of children´s attractions, the region is also famous for its churches, monuments and museums.
By Abbot Hall is the Church of the Holy Trinity, which began to take shape in the 12th century and continued until it reached a grand scale through the generosity shown by the wool merchants who endowed it. One of the aisles is named after the Flemish weavers who were brought in to help the town become prosperous. The first impression on entering the building is one of vast size the church is I03ft (31m) wide. Displayed on the north wall is a helmet, said to have belonged to 'Robin the Devil', the nickname of Colonel Huddleston Philipson who rode his horse into church during divine service. He was seeking but did not find Colonel Briggs, one of his Cromwellian adversaries.

The Brewery Arts Centre, in High gate, is a lively multi-arts complex, incorporating theatre, cinema, live music, as well as the Green Room Restaurant, with garden patio and two bars. Kendal Leisure Centre is a large modern building, serving South Lakeland. There is no charge for the use of the car park, and facilities within the building include swimming. Many celebrities have appeared in productions at the theatre.

BURNESIDE LAKE DISTRICT

When you leave Kendal, avoid using the often congested A591 north by taking a right turn onto the B5284, just beyond the old County Hall, for Burneside, where the water of the Kent has been used as power for mills since corn was first ground here in 1283. The most venerable building in Burneside is the Hall, now a farmhouse, where lived the 'Burnesheads'. Like many another old building in this part of Cumbria, the house was an addition to a pele tower.

KENTMERE LAKE DISTRICT

Cross a bridge over the River Kent and continue on a minor road by Hagg Foot and Spring Foot. The woodland between the road and river is brightened in spring by clusters of small wild daffodils.If you are planning to visit the Lake District, take your time to explore the area around Kentmere. You can either book Lake District accommodation near Kentmere or check out the great hotels, guest houses and cottages near Windermere and Bowness.

Dorothy Farrer's Spring Wood, a mile east of Staveley, is a nature reserve of the Cumbrian Wildlife Trust (non-members need a permit), where in more open areas the springtime flora includes bluebell, dog's mercury, lords and ladies and early purple orchid. Cross another bridge, about a quarter of a mile from Staveley, and turn right to follow the road into secluded Kentmere. The road winds through a knobbly and well wooded landscape. The glint of water indicates what remains of Kentmere Tarn, which shrank considerably when the valley was drained to reclaim land for agriculture. Parking in Kentmere is carefully regulated.

There is usually space (for a fee) in a small field near the bridge. The road ends about a mile north of the village, beyond which is a rough track leading to Nan Bield Pass, which connects Kentmere with the Haweswater valley.

ST CUTHBERT'S CHURCH NEAR KENTMERE

St Cuthbert's Church sits on a ledge high above the valley and presides over a scattering of houses and farms. Amble along the little lanes and cross the tiny bridges, surrounded by an astonishing stone-scape. Keep bearing right, crossing a bridge over the River Kent and returning to the village on a lane between high walls.

There are views up the valley of fells in the Borrowdale volcanic zone, including Yoke and Mardale III Bell, beyond which is High Street. They are part of a horseshoe of high ridges which appeal to the tougher fell walkers. A much gentler stroll from the church is to Kentmere Hall, another building which developed from a simple pele tower, a sanctuary for the favored local people. The 15thcentury hall, which served as a farmhouse for a long time, can be seen from the road.

This region is perfect for walkers, hikers and strollers, who can enjoy Lake District Walks without having to be super-fit. If you are planning to stay in the Lake District take your time to check out the prices and special deals for weekend hotel breaks and special offers in Windermere, Kendal, Kentmere and Bowness.

The Lake District

2010-03-13T07:01:00.000-08:00

Now one of the most famous holiday resorts in the UK, and the most visited, the Lake District offers visitors plenty of things to see and do.

For thousands of years, the Lake District was the playground of glaciers. A mass of ice bit deeply into an ancient landscape, plucking, gouging and smoothing to create the characteristic deep lakes and steep sided valleys. But it isn't just the forces of nature that have conspired to make the Lake District the most striking landscape in England. Dramatic landscapes include rock ledges and white-faced Herdwicks, Lakeland's own little sheep, their eyes looking as ancient as the rocks among which they forage for their herby diet.

Wild daffodils flourish in the deciduous woods and also near the shore of Ullswater, where they were seen by William Wordsworth. His poem, daffodils, which begins' I wandered lonely as a cloud', is one of the best-known in the world.

Apart from the history of the Lake District, the region now attracts holidaymakers who are looking for luxury hotels, hiking, walking and outdoor pursuits on holiday.

Lake District geography

You can find some of the best walks in England in the Lake District, and whatever your ability or fitness levels, there will be walks in Cumbria to suit you.
An energetic person could walk across the Lake District, from Ennerdale in the west to Shap in the east, in 24 hours a distance of about 40 miles (65km) as the crow flies. In the European context, the Lake District is tiny, yet here is a region of infinite variety. Shaped like a giant wheel, its ridges radiate from a hub of high mountains (known by the Norse term 'fells'), enfolding a host of little valleys called 'dales' and a score of big lakes.

The landscape is on a large but manageable scale, not spread out as in the Scottish Highlands where mountains stand aloof from the glens, and the lochs seem to go on forever. From Great End, near the heart of the district, the view north extends over Solway Firth to the blue hills of Scotland and, eastwards, to the Howgill Fells, beyond Lunesdale. To the west and south the sun brings a responsible gleam from the sea, and the landscape seems to fall into the water.

The fells appear to spring from low country from the Cumbrian Plain in the north, the fan shaped Eden Valley in the east and the coastal strip of the west. Viewed from the south, the fells loom beyond a fringe of pearl white limestone. On clear days, strollers along the beachfront at Morecambe who look across the bay have a clear view of Black Combe, in isolation in the southwest of the Lake District.

On a Bank Holiday, nearly half a million day trippers invade the Lake District from the conurbations of the Northeast, Yorkshire and Lancashire. Yet a short stroll away from the crowds leads to peaceful areas. Even arrest Head, the modest knoll above Windermere, long celebrated as a vantage point is not likely to be crowded. Half a century ago, this eminence inspired the young Alfred Wainwright to leave his native Lancashire textile town for Kendal, where he began his famous little handwritten guides to the Lakeland Fells.

Windermere boutique hotels and romantic hotels are situated in the town and in Bowness, and there is a wide range of Lake District accommodation to suit all budgets.
The Lake District is a tourist's name for the heart of Cumbria. Before local government boundaries changed in 1974, the region was divided between Cumberland, Westmorland, northern Lancashire and the West Riding of Yorkshire. The Lake District National Park covers an area of 880 sq miles. This northwest corner of England is virtually an island, being washed by salt water on three sides and six lanes of motorway in the east.

Lake District landscapes

The geology of the area is made up of several different formations and landscapes. The most perceptive early student of the rocks was Jonathan Otley, of Keswick, who in 1820 published an article about 'the succession of rocks in the District of the Lakes', identifying three basic types. Knowing these simplifies the subject for the layman. Skiddaw slates, the oldest visible rocks, form the friable northern fells plus that isolated bulk of Black Combe in the southwest. They were laid down over 500 million years ago in a shallow sea.

Some 50 million years later, a volcano flared. The Borrowdale volcanic of Central Lakeland were born of flame, smoke and lava flows in a landscape formation which lasted nearly a million years. The Silurian slates of the Southern Lakes composed of shale’s, slates, grits and flags, are (like the Skiddaw group) sedimentary. A fourth major geological element forms a narrow band of Coniston limestone between the volcanic and the Silurian slates. Clear evidence of it is to be seen by anyone who travels between the village of Coniston and Ambleside.

The appearance of the Lake District was determined millions of years ago, during a time of great mountain building which also thrust up the Alps and the Himalayas. In Cumbria, an immense dome was created. The radial drainage cut into the dome. During the Ice Age, ice sculpted the fells, created 'hanging' valleys, deepened and smoothed the old river valleys. The glaciers melted some 10,000 years ago.

The Lake District in the Ice Age

When first gouged out by ice, the lakes had similarities to each other. They have since changed at varying rates, depending on their situation and the way in which the adjacent land has been used. The least changed lake is Wastwater, in the far west, whose bluish tinge hints at near sterility. By contrast, centuries of human settlement and intensive farming around the shallow, reed edged Esthwaite Water, by Hawkshead, have enriched the water.

Windermere the largest lake in England

Windermere, famous throughout the world as being the largest lake in England, is more than 10 miles (l6km) long but relatively narrow. Ullswater, which is second in size, is unlike the other lakes in that it has two bends. Its mouth is among the high fells, its tail in the pastoral landscape around Pooley Bridge. In addition to the big lakes, there are mountain tarns, which Lakeland artist W. Heaton Cooper called 'the eyes of the mountains'. Windermere attracts thousands of visitors every year to its beautiful fens, lake, hotels, and Lake District attractions.

Lake District Weather

If you visit the Lake District in summer you can enjoy beautiful blue skies and mild temperatures, but the area also sees a lot of rain, and the weather can change dramatically from one day to the next.

Lakeland's climate is affected by the proximity of the sea and by the high fells, which form a barrier to weather fronts sweeping in from the west. The western fells are a great cloud factory, coaxing the prevailing wind to part with its moisture. Seathwaite, in Borrowdale, tucked away among high fells near the centre of the area, has long been famous as the wettest inhabited spot in England, the rainfall being about 125 inches (3,175mm) a year.

On dull days there are usually breaks in the cloud through which sunlight streams with all the intensity of a spotlight at the theatre, bringing sections of the landscape into sharp relief. For a reliable forecast, contact the Lake District Weather Service. Snow often falls between December and Easter, but there is no permanent cover. Pockets may linger in deep gullies until midsummer. Most valleys are low lying and a dale might remain green when flanking fells are gleaming white with snow, so if you are visiting out of season come prepared.

Lake District agriculture

Agriculture has long been an important part of the Lake District.Five thousand years have elapsed since mankind made its first mark on the Lake District landscape, clearing away tracts of the old forest that extended up the hills as far as the 2,000ft contour. A thousand years ago, Norse settlers adjusted their lifestyle to the high hills, on which they summered their cattle and sheep. From such a hardy, independent, self-reliant stock has evolved a type of farming which has its equivalent systems in mountainous areas all over the world.
When Norman lords granted the monastic orders large tracts of the Lake District, these became a range for sheep bred from the native 'crag' sheep. Known as Herdwicks, an old English word for a monastic pasturage, the name is used to this day for the nimble little animal which has a face white as hoarfrost, a coarse fleece which is dark at first, becoming greyer with age, and four solid legs to enable it to cope with the mountainous grazing. Tourism now equals tourism to boost the economy of the Lake District.

Farming was the first basic industry of Lakeland and the one of which a visitor is most aware. The farms have stocks of sheep and a few beef cattle. Tending the sheep gives plenty of work for well trained curs or collies, which respond to the whistles of the farmer with barks (vital here when flushing sheep from among rocks or dense areas of bracken). The Lakeland farmer is just as spirited as his forebears, who were greatly admired by William Wordsworth and his friends.

Lake District mining

Mining was also a massive industry in the Lake District and old mines can still be visited throughout the region. The dale head farmhouses, many of which date from the 17th century, were built of stone and slate From the Lake District fells have come a variety of minerals, including copper, which was mined in various places, notably the Newlands ValIey. Graphite, also known as 'wadd', was hewn from underground workings near Seathwaite, at the head of Borrowdale, and became the origin of the Keswick pencil industry. Granite of various hues is quarried at Shap. The exploitation of iron ore in Eskdale led to the building of the 3ft gauge railway in 1875.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

In the following year, that line passed to public use. It endures today as a tourist line the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (affectionately known as 'Ratty'). Slate is still quarried at the Burlington Quarry south of Coniston, at Elterwater and near the Kirkstone Pass.

Tourism is paramount in the Lakeland economy. In fact, the whole area is fast becoming a theme park,although it still retains much of its original charm and stunning landscapes.

Beatrix Potter and the Lake District

One of the most popular Lake District attractions is the Beatrix Potter at Bowness, and interestingly over 20% of visitors are Japanese, as the children´s author is something of an icon in Japan.

The work of Beatrix Potter creator of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck and friends, has given rise to shops dealing exclusively with her books and associated souvenirs. The National Trust, the largest landowner in the Lake District, owns Hill Top, her property at Near Sawrey, and the diminutive building at nearby Hawkshead, where her husband, William Heelis, had his solicitor's office. If you are planning to stay in Windermere or Bowness, check out the local luxury hotels and boutique hotels close to the lake.

Lake District Wildlife

Whether you plan to visit the Lake District to explore the lakes, walk the fens or relax in a luxury hotel, you will see plenty of wildlife when you venture out.
The red deer is well represented in the wooded valleys of Grizedale Forest and on Claife Heights, to the west of Windermere. Red deer also occur at Thirlmere and Martindale, the last-named being a secluded valley beyond Howtown (UlIswater). Roe deer are widespread again, though deer fencing around new plantations inhibits their movement in some areas.

The red fox is common, even though, until the recent ban on hunting with dogs, there were six active packs of foxhounds, and badgers are also found, mainly in the old deciduous woods. For years, the Lake District has been a stronghold of the red squirrel. It is still well represented in old woodland, but now the larger, more vigorous grey squirrel has gained access and is slowly extending its bounds at the expense of the smaller, daintier and now endangered red.

Lake District birds

The Lake District is home to many wild birds, and the whole region is a twitcher´s paradise.
The Lake District is famous for its cliff nesting species, notably the golden eagle, that for over 50 years has nested on a crag above Riggindale near Haweswater, and today, if you're lucky, a young male eagle who is still holding territory may be observed from an RSPB hide in that dale. Peregrine falcons, ravens and buzzards, which nest in felI country, are relatively common. The pied flycatcher is well suited to the mature woods. Check out the local Tourist Information Office for details of where you are likely to view the birds, and also for details of Lake District Hotels, attractions, events etc.,Relic fish in the Lake DistrictRelic fish from the Ice Age still inhabit lakes in the Lake District.

Of fish, the once migratory char became landlocked towards the end of the Ice Age but still frequents deep water in some lakes, notably Windermere. Anglers sit in rowing boats, each with one or more long rods and groups of hooks extending from a weighted line up to 90ft (27m) deep. Of the other locally distributed fish, the schelly (a sort of freshwater herring) is associated with Ullswater. A white relic fish called the vendace is found in Bassenthwaite and Derwent Water.

Whatever time of year you decide to visit the Lake District, you will find plenty of things to do. Children´s attractions include Beatrix Potter in Bowness, the Lakes Aquarium on the lakes of Windermere, Bowness and a host of things to do for the grown ups including boat trips around the lake, Windermere walks and some of the best Lake District hotels, pubs and restaurants in the region.

Windermere and Lake District Walks

2010-01-25T00:28:00.000-08:00

Windermere is one of the best places in the Lake District to enjoy walking, climbing and hiking, plus a range of boating activities and water sports on the famous lake. Whatever you want to do in the Lake District you will find it within easy reach of Windermere, and a range of award-winning attractions keep visitors flocking back to Cumbria.

Windermere and Bowness accommodation is also among the finest in the Lake District, and a range of superb boutique hotels have sprung up in this beautiful area of Cumbria. If you are looking for a themed hotel or a luxury hotel for a romantic weekend, look no further than Bowness or Windermere.

The best way to explore the Lake District is on foot, and there are a wide range of routes, which vary in degrees of difficulty and terrain. The Lake District boasts a diverse range of countryside, terrain and mountains to offer visitors some of the most scenic walks in England.

With over 14 million visitors a year, the Lake District National Park covers 885 square miles and is home to the longest lake and the highest mountain in England – namely Windermere and Scafell Pike. A vast number of scenic lakes and rivers keep visitors flocking to the Lake District, and over 43,000 people live within its boundaries.

The region also offers visitors a rich cultural history and there are plenty of attractions, including the Honister Slate Mine, which take people back in time to the days of great industry in the Lake District. Once known for its lead and slate mining, the Lake District first became famous for tourism in Victorian times, when wealthy city aristocrats used to visit and enjoy the clear, country air.

If you are planning to travel around the Lake District, the best way to get from one region to another is by public transport or hire car, but once you are there, you should explore the superb inner areas of the National Park on foot, to make the most of your visit. To get away from your normal routine, there is no better place to enjoy the great outdoors than the Lake District, where you can climb the mountains, cycle around the fenland routes and explore the beautiful towns and villages which make this region so special. Not forgetting the lakes of course, where you can enjoy a boating trip or even sail under your own steam and hire a rowing boat.

One of the best places to visit is the Ashgill Falls, which is a huge, magnificent waterfall which is surrounded by woodland, flora and fauna, and which fills the forest with noise as the water roars down the fall. Visitors can walk from the village of Garrigill to the Ashgill Falls and you can even go right behind the falls and stand underneath the water (without getting too wet).

A direct train from Manchester Airport to Windermere has made the Lake District much more accessible for visitors from overseas, and for visitors from other parts of the UK, public transport links are good if you want to leave your car at home. One of the best places to base yourself in the Lake District is Windermere or Bowness where the range of boutique hotels, organic hotels, themed hotels and spa hotels is fantastic, and a vast range of accommodation provides the perfect place for a romantic weekend.

Great places to go in the Lake District

2010-01-24T23:49:00.000-08:00

With 14 national parks, the UK offers visitors some of the best areas of outstanding beauty in Europe, and one of the most popular is the Lake District in Cumbria.

Situated in the north-west of England, the Lake District boasts some of the finest scenery in the UK, with mountains, lakes, fens and open countryside, not to mention a wealth of superb spa hotels, hot tub hotels and themed boutique hotels around Windermere and Bowness.

Visitors to the Lake District can sail along Windermere, England´s longest lake at 10.5 miles, climb Scafell Pike, one of the UK´s highest mountains, or take a trip to one of the hundreds of attractions, including The Beatrix Potter Attraction at Bowness, and the Lakeland Aquarium, Windermere.

Whether you enjoy outdoor adventure or you are planning a romantic weekend in a boutique hotel, you will be spoilt for choice in Windermere and Bowness. With over 2,187 miles of rights of way in the Lake District, visitors can discover the region on horseback, on foot or on a bike, to make the most of the stunning scenery, the lakes and the vast range of great places to eat and drink.

It is well worth visiting the fabulous villages and towns in the Lake District, and if you decide to stay in a Windermere or Bowness boutique hotel, you will be within easy distance of all the major attractions. If you are planning a weekend break in the Lake District, you may find yourself returning every year to explore another part of this glorious region.

If you are visiting the Lake District for the first time, there are some places you should definitely visit:

1. Windermere is the longest of all lakes in England, at 10.5 miles and is surrounded by some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in Britain. The best way to explore Windermere is by taking one of the many steamer trips around the lake or by hiring a boat. If you want to visit Orrest Head, Gummers How and the villages of Ambleside and Bowness, you can combine walking with public transport or hire a car.

2. Derwentwater is 3 miles long and has several small islands which can all be explored. The best way to reach them is by hiring a small motor boat or rowing boat for an afternoon or morning. To explore the area around the shores of the lake, visitors can hop on and off ferries which criss-cross Derwentwater during the summer. To the west you can visit the fells of Cat Bells and take your time to explore Friar´s Crag to the east which offers stunning views over Derwentwater.

3. Keswick is a traditional small market town on the north shore of Derwentwater, and is located in one of England´s most beautiful lakeside settings. Windermere or Keswick are the perfect base for visitors who want to explore the whole of the Lake District, and there are plenty of things to see and do around both towns. Situated near Keswick are three museums where you can learn more about the history of the region, and an indoor pool and climbing centre also attract plenty of more adventurous visitors.

4. Grasmere is close to the banks of Lake Grasmere and rowing boats can be hired for visitors wanting to explore this beautiful waterway. The village is full of quaint pubs, cosy cafés and some excellent restaurants to keep visitors fed and watered during their stay. The grave of world famous poet, William Wordsworth is also situated at the church in Grasmere. The area has many public footpaths so visitors can make the most of their visit.

5. Weekend breaks in the Lake District have increased in popularity since the first boutique hotels appeared in Windermere and Bowness, and there are now plenty of superb romantic hotels and guesthouses to stay. Whether you are planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday or a few days away from the stress of working life, there is no better place to stay in the Lake District than a spa hotel or a hot tub hotel in Windermere or Bowness. After a busy day walking on the fens or boating around Windermere, imagine returning to your luxury hotel suite for a relaxing soak in a hot tub or spa bath, followed by dinner in one of the Lake District´s superb restaurants.

6. Some of the best outdoor activities in the Lake District include a steam railway, the Lakeland Aquarium at Windermere, the Beatrix Potter Attraction at Bowness, Hilltop Farm at Hawkshead, which was once home to Beatrix Potter and a host of riding centres and cycling routes. If you are planning a winter break in the Lakes District there are plenty of things to see and do whatever the weather. You can hike, bike and sail year-round and take advantage of some of the great walking trails which are suitable for all ages and all levels of fitness.

7. Lakes in the Lake District are the main attraction of the area, and there are over 100 lakes in the region, ranging in length and depth. Some of the most famous lakes include: Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston and Bassenthwaite. Interestingly, Bassenthwaite Lake is the only body of water in the Lake District which includes the name ´lake´ as all the others are known as ´water´, ´mere´ or tarn.

8. Winter breaks in the Lake District are attracting more visitors than ever, as there are fewer tourists around, and many of the attractions are staying open longer. Winter breaks and Christmas breaks in the Lake District continue to increase in popularity, and for visitors who want to get away from it all and enjoy a romantic weekend or a week´s winter holiday, there is no better place to visit in England than the Lake District.

Welcome to the windermere boutique hotel blog

2010-01-24T04:53:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Welcome to the windermere boutique hotel blog.

Please check back soon for upcoming information and notices.

Thanks,
The windermere boutique hotel team.