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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

Full Moon Women's Circle - Pink Moon

The full Pink moon in Libra aligns with spring flowers bursting into life and symbolises happiness…

Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Join photographer Steve Blake on a half day workshop Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment…

Derwentwater Marina Shop

Our well-stocked Shop goes from strength to strength as we increase our range of products. Our…

Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

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

Boat Hire on Derwentwater with Keswick Launch Co.

Hire a rowing or motor boat and explore Derwentwater and its islands under your own steam. No…

The Bowder Stone and Watendlath

Tucked high amongst the fells in a secluded and hidden valley on the eastern side of Borrowdale is…

Woodland Reset

Woodland Reset ~ The Conscious Self's Signature Nature Day Come and join The Conscious Self for a…

Lake District Walking Holidays - The Carter Company

Tailor made self guided, walking, cycling and touring holidays with luxury and classic…

Borrowdale at The Lingholm Estate

Tucked beneath the eaves of the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house, our charming Borrowdale…

Ultimate Animal Experience at The Lake District Wildlife Park

The ultimate animal experience for anyone over the age of 8 years that you will never forget! This…

Family Friendly Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Join photographer Steve Blake on a family friendly half day workshop. Whinlatter's beautiful…

Derwentwater Round with Contours Holidays (Stile-Free)

Contours Holidays designed the Derwentwater Round as a gentle, relaxing two-day meander around the…

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…

Coledale Round

Coledale itself is a classic U shaped valley that is typical of many in the Lake District, but…

The Spa at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Armathwaite Hall has created a timeless, yet contemporary countryside spa within a stunning rural…

The Fernery at The Lingholm Estate

The Fernery is the newest addition to The Lingholm Estate, a sophisticated one-bedroom sanctuary…

The Horse and Farrier Inn

Fine food, drink and accommodation at the foot of Blencathera. Dine unwind and stay in our finely…

Skiddaw & Thirlmere

From the heights of Skiddaw to the silvan beauty of Thirlmere, this accessible area is a delight to…

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Raised in circa 3000BC, Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric of all British stone circles…

St Kentigern, Crosthwaite, Keswick

Crosthwaite Church has a long history and it is thought that Christians have worshipped on this…

Red squirrel feeder walk

Walk with our Ranger and help to fill the squirrel feeders in the forest! Whinlatter is a red…

Derwentwater at The Lingholm Estate

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

Barn Croft

Rural location, small hamlet but only 1.5 miles from Keswick and Skiddaw and with outstanding views…

The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Illustrated Talk: Skiddaw Forest: England's Highest Nature Reserve

Address

Threlkeld Village Hall, Threlkeld, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RX

Telephone
+447931679654

events@threlkeld.org

Keswick

Join Pete Jones, Cumbria Wildlife Trust Skiddaw Forest Project Manager, for an evening all about England's highest nature reserve. From the history of the site, through to future plans for restoring some of Britain's rarest habitats, this talk will…

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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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Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
5 reviews
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Lake District Walking Holidays - The Carter Company

Address

The Carter Company, Various locations in Cumbria, CA12 4RE

Telephone
0129663167

hello@the-carter-company.com

Various locations in Cumbria

Tailor made self guided, walking, cycling and touring holidays with luxury and classic accommodation showing you the hidden gems of the area.

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Bramblewood Cottage Guest House

Address

2 Greta Street, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4HS

Telephone
017687 75918

info@bramblewoodkeswick.com

Keswick

A 200 year old Cottage overlooking Fitz Park with stunning views of the River Greta, Skiddaw and Latrigg.

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Svayti Duo by Candlelight

Address

Ambleside Road, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4DD

Telephone
01539 266 200

info@ldsm.org.uk

Keswick

Vivaldi - Sonata No.6 in B flat RV46
Elgar - Chanson de Matin
Fauré - Après un Rêve
Saint-Saëns - The Swan
Bruch - Kol Nidrei
Williams - Elegy and Theme from Schindler's List
Nadia Boulanger - Deux Pièces
Piazzolla - Oblivion
From St Paul's…

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Alpaca Walking at The Lake District Wildlife Park

Address

Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite, Cumbria, CA12 4RD

Telephone
017687 76239

info@lakedistrictwildlifepark.com

Bassenthwaite

Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are friendly and inquisitive animals and just like us they enjoy a bit of fresh air and exercise. Meet our five boys Hugo, Hector, Herbie, Dougal and…

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Beyonk Online Booking
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Castlerigg Stone Circle

Address

Castlerigg, Keswick, Cumbria, CA10 2AA

Telephone
0191 2691200

customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Keswick

Raised in circa 3000BC, Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric of all British stone circles with the mountain of Helvellyn as a dramatic backdrop.

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Brun Lea Guest House

Address

Brun Lea Guest House, 1-3 Stanger St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5JU

Telephone
017687 74247

brunlea@live.com

Keswick

We are a long established, 1981, family-run guest house, with friendly, relaxing atmosphere. We have a range of comfortably furnished rooms all with colour TV, tea/coffee making facilities and serve an excellent breakfast.

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Tourism For All

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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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Borrowdale Tour

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

Cumbria

An 18.7 miles (30.2km) circular cycling route around Borrowdale, taking in spectacular scenery and some wonderful Lake District views.

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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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Derwentwater at The Lingholm Estate

Address

The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ

Telephone
017687 74238

stay@thelingholmestate.co.uk

Portinscale

Derwentwater is a stunning first-floor apartment created from the former billiards room on the north side of the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house. Enjoy breathtaking views across the lake and surrounding fells from the light-filled open-plan…

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510 reviews
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The Bowder Stone and Watendlath

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

keswicktic@lake-district.gov.uk

Cumbria

Tucked high amongst the fells in a secluded and hidden valley on the eastern side of Borrowdale is the picture perfect hamlet of Watendlath. It sits nestling in a glacier-carved hollow beside the mirrored waters of a tarn and surrounded by trees,…

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The Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden

Address

The Lingholm Kitchen, The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ

Telephone
017687 71206

kitchen@thelingholmestate.co.uk

Portinscale, Keswick

Open every day, The Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden has quickly become a popular Lakeland destination for Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Tea.

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Go Ape x Winter Adventures 2025

Address

Go Ape Whinlatter, Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
01603 895500

questions@goape.co.uk

Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite

Based in the heart of Whinlatter Forest, just inside Keswick, adventure awaits. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for a unique activity or simply after some quality time with friends and family, Go Ape have you covered. Boasting two high ropes…

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Whinlatter Walking Trails

Address

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

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Whinlatter is the place to enjoy peaceful forest walks surrounded by stunning Lake District scenery, with miles of gravel roads, paths and tracks to explore. Create your own adventure or follow one of our waymarked routes, with a wide range of…

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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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Swinside at The Lingholm Estate

Address

The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ

Telephone
017687 74238

stay@thelingholmestate.co.uk

Portinscale

Swinside is a beautiful and exceptionally spacious duplex apartment for four, perfectly positioned at the front of the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house. The elegant sitting room enjoys sweeping views across the main lawn towards Swinside…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
510 reviews
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Lake View at The Lingholm Estate

Address

The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ

Telephone
017687 74238

stay@thelingholmestate.co.uk

Portinscale

One of the apartments in the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house, Lake View exudes understated luxury. Once the private rooms of Lord Rochdale, the impressive main living space is now beautifully arranged in an open-plan design, incorporating a…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
510 reviews
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Skiddaw

Address

-

website@cumbriatourism.org

Skiddaw is one of the elite group of mountains in England whose summit eclipses the 3000 foot barrier. It overlooks Keswick and Derwent Water.

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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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