Bassenthwaite is situated on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, one of the only true lakes in the area, and is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
One of the main attractions in Bassenthwaite is the lake itself, which is a haven for wildlife, and visitors can spot a wide variety of birds such as ospreys, which can be seen fishing on the lake during the summer months. The lake is also home to a number of fish species such as pike, perch, and trout, making it a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the lake shore, where you can find many picnic spots and take in the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding fells.
The village of Bassenthwaite is also home to a number of historic and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Castlerigg Stone Circle, an ancient stone circle located just outside the village, which is considered one of the most visually impressive stone circles in Britain. The village also features the St Bega’s Church, a 12th-century church, which is a grade I listed building.
Bassenthwaite is a popular spot for hiking and climbing, with numerous trails and routes suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Skiddaw, a 931m high fell with great views of the surrounding area, and the Dodd, a fell with a moderate climb that offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes. The village also offers a number of gentle walks suitable for families and less experienced walkers, such as the route around the lake shore.
The village of Bassenthwaite is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The closest major city to Bassenthwaite is Carlisle, which is well-connected to the area by train and bus. Visitors can also fly into Newcastle Airport and take a connecting train or bus to Bassenthwaite.
Grasmere and Rydal are two villages situated on the shores of Grasmere and Rydal Water, two small lakes in the area, and are known for their beautiful scenery and rich literary and cultural heritage.
Grasmere is the larger of the two villages and is known for its picturesque setting, nestled between high fells and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The village is home to the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop, which has been making the traditional gingerbread for over 150 years. Visitors can also take a stroll around the village, where you can find many independent shops, art galleries, and specialty food stores.
One of the main attractions in Grasmere is Dove Cottage, the former home of the poet William Wordsworth, which is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can also visit the graves of William and Dorothy Wordsworth in the churchyard of St Oswald’s Church.
Rydal is a small village located just a short walk from Grasmere. It is known for its beautiful gardens and tranquil setting. Visitors can take a stroll around Rydal Mount, the former home of the poet William Wordsworth and now open to the public as a museum, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
The villages of Grasmere and Rydal are also popular spots for hiking and walking. There are numerous trails and routes suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, such as the Fairfield Horseshoe, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, or the walk around Rydal Water, a beautiful and peaceful walk.
The villages of Grasmere and Rydal are easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The closest major city to Grasmere and Rydal is Manchester, which is well-connected to the area by train and bus. Visitors can also fly into Manchester Airport and take a connecting train or bus to Grasmere and Rydal.
Hawkshead is a small, picturesque village known for its charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and beautiful scenery.
One of the main attractions in Hawkshead is the Hawkshead Grammar School, which is now open to the public as a museum. The school dates back to the 16th century and was attended by famous alumni such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Visitors can also take a stroll around the village, where you can find many small shops, art galleries, and specialty food stores, including the famous Beatrix Potter Gallery which showcases the artwork of the famous children’s author and illustrator.
Hawkshead is also a popular spot for hiking and walking, with numerous trails and routes suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Tarn Hows, a beautiful walk around a series of small lakes, and the Loughrigg Fell, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The village also offers a number of gentle walks suitable for families and less experienced walkers, such as the route around Esthwaite Water, a large lake just outside the village.
The village of Hawkshead is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The closest major city to Hawkshead is Manchester, which is well-connected to the area by train and bus. Visitors can also fly into Manchester Airport and take a connecting train or bus to Hawkshead.