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Bassenthwaite The Lake District
Bassenthwaite The Lake District

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Bassenthwaite

The national nature reserve of Bassenthwaite Lake is a tranquil finger of water sitting in the lofty shadow of Skiddaw. This wildlife-rich body of water is fringed with a mosaic of reed beds, fen marshland, woodlands and wildflower meadows, and is perhaps best known for the spectacular sight of ospreys diving into the waters for fish. A new lottery-funded scheme, Bassenthwaite Reflections, is helping to protect the lake’s vulnerable plant and animal life through community involvement.

The peaceful village of Bassenthwaite, centred on its old inn, sits in a quiet valley at the north end of the lake. To the south is Mirehouse, an 18th century house and garden with literary links to Tennyson, Coleridge and Wordsworth.

Culture & Heritage

The earliest known settlement is at Castle How, an Iron Age hill fort on the western shore of Bassenthwaite Lake, but it wasn’t until the arrival of Christianity in the middle of the 6th century that mankind’s deeper footprint became visible. Saint Saint Kentigern is believed to have preached at Crosthwaite (east of Keswick) in AD 556 while a few years later Saint Bega is thought to have founded a church bearing her name on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake – even if the current church only dates to around AD950.

Bassenthwaite village probably got its name from the Vikings who settled here after chopping down a few trees. After 1066, the whole area came under the rule of the Earls of Egremont, with the Manor of Bassenthwaite now part of the Barony of Allerdale. The locals made their living from farming and fishing, but also did some mining and some weaving from the wool of Herdwick sheep: the area became known for a rough-spun, undyed cloth known as ‘Skiddaw Grey.’ Over time the weaving process became mechanised and several mills were built, including one at Millbeck on the flanks of Skiddaw that produced large large quantities of caps, blankets and flannels for export to slave plantations in the Americas.

Nearby Mirehouse has been owned by the Spedding family since 1802. During the early 19th century, the house became a literary hotbed for the Lake poets – William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Southey and Thomas Carlyle. Alfred Tennyson stayed here in 1835 and composed the lines on Excalibur for Morte d’Arthur whilst sitting on the lakeshore.

The construction of the railway line between Penrith and Cockermouth in 1864 brought Victorian tourists in their droves, all eager to enjoy the wild scenery around Keswick and Bassenthwaite so lyrically described by Wordsworth and the other Lake poets. Most of the area’s older hotels and guesthouses date from this time.

Surrounding Areas

Whinlatter - Whinlatter is England's only true mountain forest. Rising 1000ft above sea level, the forest and visitor centre provides a whole range of outdoor activities for everyone. Start at the visitor centre where the staff will give information and help plan your day.

Keswick - It's central location makes Keswick the perfect place to stay when planning to explore the Lake District. The town is surrounded famous Lakeland hills such has Grizedale Pike, Skiddaw and Catbells.

Skiddaw - Skiddaw dominates Bassenthwaite Lake and at 931 metres it is one of the largest peaks in the Lake District.
This mountain is one of the oldest formations in the Lake District (and indeed in Europe). This fell is also an extinct Volcano.

Did you know?

GLACIAL WATERS

The glacial waters of Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater were once joined together as one long lake until river-borne deposits from the rivers Derwent, Greta and Pow Beck silted up the central section to form two separate bodies of water. Both lakes are the shallowest in the Lake District, with an average depth of only 5.5 m (18 ft).

THE BISHOP OF BARF

In 1783 the newly appointed Bishop of Derry was on his way to Whitehaven to take a boat to Ireland. He stopped for the night at an inn beside Bassenthwaite Lake and, after consuming several drinks, wagered that he could ride his pony to the top of Barf, a nearby hill. Halfway up the pony stumbled at a large rock and fell, killing both horse and rider. The large rock (known as Bishop Rock) is painted white in remembrance of this futile act, while at the foot of the slope is another white-painted rock known as The Clerk where the bishop and his pony were buried.

CELTIC SWORDS

In the early 1800s, one of the finest Celtic swords ever found in Britain was discovered in a field near Wythop Mill. The sword and its highly decorated sheath are now on display in the British Museum.

ALFRED TENNYSON

Alfred Tennyson stayed at Mirehouse, Bassenthwaite in 1835 and composed the lines on Excalibur for Morte d’Arthur whilst sitting on the lakeshore. It is said that the lake was a model for the lake into which Excalibur was thrown. A memorial stone depicting the sword and a hand rising from the water, erected by the Tennyson Society, stands by the lake shore.

Highlights

Whinlatter Forest

Prepare to be wowed by England's only true mountain forest. Rising 1000ft above sea level and set…

Keswick Tourist Information Centre

In the centre of Keswick and with a recently refurbished community room, the Moot Hall is the…

The Pencil Museum

Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica…

The Royal Oak, Keswick - Food & Drink

The Royal Oak is an 18th-century coaching inn within the hustle and bustle of Keswick town centre.…

The North Lakes Short Break with Contours Holidays

During the nineteenth century, adventurous tourists travelled by horse-drawn carriage through…

Derwentwater Island Hop Swim

We indulge our obsession with swimming around islands on the Derwentwater Island Hop, and there is…

Keswick Brewery Tours, Bar and Shop

Come and visit our brewery to find out more about us and the beers we make. Only a 2 minute walk…

Keswick Bridge

At Keswick Bridge, you will find a mixture of 1-3 bed lodges. We can cater for up to 8 guests (sofa…

Forest Bathing & Wellbeing in Nature Walk – Summer

Reconnect. Slow down. Breathe deeply. Step away from the rush of everyday life and join us for a…

Catbells Cottage at The Lingholm Estate

Catbells Cottage has been thoughtfully restored to create a stunning five-bedroom home, offering…

Lake District Trail Running Festival 2026

53k and 23k trail running races.

Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed…

Forest Bathing & Wellbeing in Nature Walk – Spring

Reconnect. Slow down. Breathe deeply. Step away from the rush of everyday life and join us for a…

Lakeland Paws canicross series

The 25/26 series of canicross races has now launched! Held in England's only mountain forest, Dodd…

The Bistro At The Distillery

The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by…

Borrowdale and Castle Crag

Slap bang in the middle of Borrowdale is Castle Crag. It's rather small, this perfectly formed…

Old Coach Road

The flanks of Clough Head and Matterdale Common at the northern end of the Helvellyn range are…

Cafe Ambio, Whinlatter Forest

"Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter Forest is set in the beautiful location of Whinlatter Forest, nestled in…

Booths Keswick

Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed…

Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

The Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station and Carriage Cafe offers a unique…

St. John's Church, Keswick

The church is situated centrally in Keswick and stands out by virtue of its tall spire. The site…

Derwentwater at The Lingholm Estate

Derwentwater is a stunning first-floor apartment created from the former billiards room on the…

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

Join photographer Steve Blake in our beautiful woodland environment. Full day workshops are…

Sunnyside Guest House

Sunnyside Guest House is located in the picturesque town of Keswick and just a short walk from the…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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The Art of Julian Cooper

Address

Theatre By The Lake, Lake Rd, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5DJ

Telephone
+441768774411

enquiries@theatrebythelake.com

Keswick

Discover the work of acclaimed artist Julian Cooper at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick, Cumbria, where landscape, light and place are explored through striking and thought-provoking artwork.
Set in the heart of the Lake District, this exhibition…

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Ritson Restaurant and Tavern at Castle Inn Hotel

Address

Castle Inn Hotel by BW Signature Collection, Keswick, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RG

Telephone
017687 76401

reception@castleinncumbria.co.uk

Keswick

Our restaurant has a warm and modern appeal, for either a romantic meal for two, or a family meal. if you are hosting a special occasion, private dining can also be arranged in one our of our function rooms. Set beneath some of England's highest…

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Derwentwater Round with Contours Holidays (Stile-Free)

Address

Cumbria, Cumbria

Telephone
01629 821900

info@contours.co.uk

Cumbria

Contours Holidays designed the Derwentwater Round as a gentle, relaxing two-day meander around the fabulous Derwentwater lake, ideal for first timers and young families. Beginning and ending in Keswick, this 12-mile route utilises easy,…

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Peel Wood

Address

East Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8AQ

Telephone
015394 41456

coniston@nationaltrust.org.uk

Coniston

This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.

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Derwentwater Head 2026

Address

Crow Park, -, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5EG

Telephone
07961320649

events@lakelandrowingclub.com

Keswick

A British Rowing affiliated rowing competition, launching from Keswick Foreshore and racing the length of Derwentwater.

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Whinlatter Running Trails

Address

Whinlatter Forest & Visitor Centre, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Whinlatter is a great place for walking with many miles of gravel roads, paths and tracks to explore. Each junction is marked with a numbered post which is shown on the Forest guide map making it easy to create your own route.

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Skiddaw via Jenkin Hill

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

keswicktic@lake-district.gov.uk

Cumbria

Skiddaw's simple symmetry appeals to the child in us all. Its form needs no explanation; it is a mountain simple as that, with steep slopes and a summit. It might lack the drama of the great crags of its peers, and its open flanks hold no secrets…

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St Herbert's Festival of Running

Address

St Herberts Primary School, Trinity Way, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4HZ

Telephone
+447719492236

Catherine_brennan@hotmail.com

Keswick

Fast, flat and inclusive 10km running event along the Keswick to Threlked railway. 3km fun run for children and adults.

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The Cottage in the Wood

Address

The Cottage In The Wood, Magic Hill, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
017687 78409

relax@thecottageinthewood.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

We are a relaxed, gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, the only true mountain forest in England, with nine contemporary rooms offering woodland or garden views, it’s a haven of tranquillity and relaxation.

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894 reviews
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Bob Graham Round with Contours Holidays

Address

Cumbria, Cumbria

Telephone
01629 821900

info@contours.co.uk

Cumbria

At Contours Holidays, we think that the Bob Graham Round is simply too good a route to be restricted to elite fell runners, so we’ve turned it into an awesome walking holiday by extending the route slightly, so that each day ends in a village with…

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Outside In

Address

Station Road, Keswick, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4NF

Telephone
01768773263

info@keswickmuseum.org.uk

Keswick

Inside just got interesting.
Step off the trail and into a space where the Lake District is reimagined. Sound, story and digital exploration blend into a hands-on experience that's full of life, built for curious minds and restless feet of all ages…

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Castlerigg Hall - Camping and Touring Pitches

Address

Castlerigg Hall, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TE

Telephone
017687 74499

info@castlerigg.co.uk

Keswick

Catering for families and couples, Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Caravan Park occupies one of the finest positions in the Lake District overlooking Derwentwater with breath-taking views of the surrounding fells.

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620 reviews
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The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Address

The Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YE

Telephone
017687 76234

info@the-pheasant.co.uk

Cockermouth

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

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Bikes, Boots, Boats – A Unique Triathlon Event

Address

YHA Kewswick, Station Road, Kewswick, Cumbria, CA12 5LH

Telephone
01903 680740

marnie.davidson@turning-tides.org.uk

Kewswick

Sign up to take on this unique triathlon event, while raising funds for Turning Tides, a homelessness charity supporting people in W Sussex!
Bikes, Boots, Boats
Sign up to take on this one-of-a-kind triathlon event, while raising vital funds for…

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Barn Croft

Address

Applethwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4PN

Telephone
01434 632010

ctmm18@gmail.com

Keswick

Rural location, small hamlet but only 1.5 miles from Keswick and Skiddaw and with outstanding views southwards. Ideal for fell walking, touring, water sports and ready access to north and central Lakes. Arrival time 16.00, departure 10.00.

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Woodland Reset

Address

Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
07891 291847

hello@theconsciousself.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Woodland Reset ~ The Conscious Self's Signature Nature Day
Come and join The Conscious Self for a wellness day like no other! Deep in the heart of the forest we will connect to nature and community!

Step into the woods and let your system exhale…

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Couples Massage Tutorial with Lake District School of Massage

Address

Lakeland Wellbeing, 3 The Heads, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5ES

Telephone
0800 086 2644

hello@lakedistrictschoolofmassage.co.uk

Keswick

Does your partner ever ask you for a massage, and after a few minutes your hands start to ache? With this tutorial you learn an easy, effective home treatment, ideal for soothing tense shoulders.

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5 reviews
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Derwentwater Marina Shop

Address

Derwentwater Marina, Portinscale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5RF

Telephone
017687 72912

info@derwentwatermarina.co.uk

Keswick

Our well-stocked Shop goes from strength to strength as we increase our range of products. Our friendly & helpful staff are always on hand to help you make the right choice of kit.

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Rooms36

Address

Rooms36, 36 Lake Rd, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5DQ

Telephone
01768772764

andy@rooms36.co.uk

Keswick

The newly renovated family and dog-friendly Rooms36, VB 4-star silver award-winning bed and breakfast is situated a short flat walk from Keswick town centre and about a 5-minute flat walk from Derwentwater queen of the lakes.

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167 reviews
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Full Moon Women's Circle – Buck Moon

Address

Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
+447810890528

jen@lakelandwellbeing.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District
The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection, release, and renewal. At our special forest site in the Lake District, we gather in circle as women to honour the peak of the Moon's cycle and reconnect…

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Bassenthwaite

Culture & Heritage

Surrounding Areas

Did you know?

GLACIAL WATERS

THE BISHOP OF BARF

CELTIC SWORDS

ALFRED TENNYSON

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