The Lake District, located in the North West County of Cumbria offers everything a tree hugger would adore. The Lake District has a rich and fascinating history including a human settlement during the Roman occupation of Britain, ties to the industrial revolution, the Romantic poet William and his sister Dorothy Wordsworth (author of The Grasmere Journals) as well as the birthplace of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter.
I have visited the Lake District too many times to count; first visiting as a child with my parents and now sharing the wonders of the North with my southern partner. I instantly fell in love with the charm and never-ending beauty of the North West of England. What follows is just +a tiny snippet of some of the treasures in the Lakes that adventure seekers, and pub and nature lovers may appreciate.
Hiking and adventures
I think it’s obligatory when visiting the Lakes that at least one walk, hike or stroll is fulfilled. I have chosen a few hikes, from a relatively mild walk to something more challenging.
A relatively short loop from Windermere to Orrest Head offers a combination of a gentle walk and brilliant views. The views of Lake Windermere are spectacular, the path is well defined and this would be great for those looking for a gentle but highly rewarding hike.
One of the first hikes I did was the Grasmere and Rydal Water walk, using parts of the Old Coffin Route. This stunning and slightly more challenging hike can be started from Grasmere or as I have done from Rydal Hall. The circular hike (taken from Rydal Hall) passes by beautiful views of Rydal water, Rydal Cave, (an impressive man-made cave, as a result of slate quarrying), Grasmere Lake and Grasmere. This hike is extremely popular, for good reason, offering amazing views, a trip into the cosy and scenic village of Grasmere (home to Dove cottage, The Grasmere Gingerbread shop and the burial site of both William and Dorothy Wordsworth).
The Old Man of Coniston is a demanding and enriching hike. A car is essential for this challenging hike, starting in Walna Scar car park you start your journey up through the old copper mines. Scrambling and steep inclines await you as you make a slow ascent up to the top of the Old Man of Coniston. Throughout this hike you will see old remnants of the copper mine industry, the old copper pipes and decayed buildings leaving a feeling of eeriness and wonder. Expect unpredictable weather (especially in winter months) as the cold harsh wind and sleet are rather unpleasant when unprepared. Nevertheless, the steep inclines paired with the atmosphere of the old mines and the amazing views are worth it.
Pubs, food and Historical Sites
A trip to the lakes wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a pub. The Crafty Baa located in Windermere is a brilliant microbrewery oozing of character, serving yummy goodies and an array of beers – like loads of beer. Additionally, the interior is cosy and quirky, great for a cheeky pint after a long strenuous walk.
Rydal Hall dating back to the early 15th century is now a residential conference and retreat centre. Rydal Hall also has rooms and a cottage to rent as well as a large camping site. The camping site offers excellent facilities including multiple picnic areas, fire pits, clean and modern bathrooms, as well as a beautiful and peaceful camp site to enjoy the beauty of the natural world. Rydal Hall has a cosy little bar area and cafe, as well as my personal favourite, The Grot. Built in 1668 the grot or grotto was built for individuals to enjoy the beautiful Rydal Falls. William Wordsworth was particularly fond of this viewing place, reflected in the poem ‘An Evening Walk’.
Dove Cottage the home of William and Dorothy’s Wordsworth from 1799 to 1808 is located in Grasmere. Stepping into the home of the famous romantic poet and his sister is like stepping back in time 200 years. Both William and Dorothy composed pieces of literature within the cottage, William’s poems and Dorothy’s The Grasmere Journals.
Wray parkland and castle located in Ambleside is a magnificent estate owned by the National Trust. The estate included an arboretum and yew walk, walled garden, boathouse, and miniature harbour. Take a gentle stroll around the beautiful gardens or explore the shingle beach on the shores of Lake Windermere.
I hope this tiny insight into the wonders of the Lake District inspires you to take a trip to the North West of England to explore and bask in the natural beauties that provoke reflection and the sublime.
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