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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

New Keswick Women's Institute

Open evening to help shape a new Women's Institute for Keswick

Lakeside Café Restaurant

Located next to Theatre By The Lake in Keswick, Lakeside Café Restaurant has perhaps some of the…

Bird of Prey Experience at The Lake District Wildlife Park

An unique opportunity for anyone over 16 years old. After enjoying a Bird of Prey flying display…

Full Moon Women's Circle – Buck Moon

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…

Svayti Duo by Candlelight

Vivaldi - Sonata No.6 in B flat RV46 Elgar - Chanson de Matin Fauré - Après un Rêve Saint-Saëns -…

Go Ape Whinlatter

Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter boasts unrivalled views across…

The Spirit of the Guitar

Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival Aquarelle Guitar Quartet Rossini Sinfonia from…

Cyclewise Whinlatter

Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A…

The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

Alpaca Walking at The Lake District Wildlife Park

Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are…

Keswick Film Festival

Keswick Film Festival is Cumbria’s premiere cinematic event bringing the best of international and…

Altra 13 Valleys Ultra

13 Valleys celebrates the 13 unique valleys of the Lake District National Park which are part of…

Whinlatter Forest Trail Runs

10km and half marathon trail runs within Whinlatter Forest

Keswick Brewery Shop

Visit our beer shop selling bottled beers and cans,  local gins and cider, merchandise and beer…

Keswick Bridge

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

Couples Massage Tutorial with Lake District School of Massage

Does your partner ever ask you for a massage, and after a few minutes your hands start to ache?…

Blencathra

Rumoured to be one of Chris Bonnington's favourites in the Lake District, Blencathra's (868m)…

The Royal Oak, Keswick - Food & Drink

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

Derwentwater Marina Shop

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

Conferences at The Lingholm Estate

At The Lingholm Estate, we know how valuable strong connections are within a team. Our Corporate…

Carriage Café at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

The romantic ambience and art-deco features of the stunning train carriages make this a truly…

Swinside Circuit

This short 8 mile road route uses country lanes to the south west of Keswick on a circular ride…

The Cottage in the Wood

Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the…

Derwentwater Marina

Derwent Water Marina is situated in the peaceful and sheltered northwest corner of the lake in the…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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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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Forage and Cookery Course

Address

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

Telephone
07423753212

info@totallywilduk.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Get ready for an adventure with a Totally Wild UK professional forager on our Forage and Cookery Course. Join them on a journey to learn about the hidden world of wild edibles that surrounds us. And that's not all! Enjoy a delicious wild food meal…

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Blencathra

Address

-, CA12 4SG

website@cumbriatourism.org

Rumoured to be one of Chris Bonnington's favourites in the Lake District, Blencathra's (868m) highlights include Narrow and Sharp Edges.

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The Royal Oak, Keswick - Food & Drink

Address

The Royal Oak at Keswick, Main St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5HZ

Telephone
017687 73135

relax@royaloakkeswick.co.uk

Keswick

The Royal Oak is an 18th-century coaching inn within the hustle and bustle of Keswick town centre. Let it be your base at the heart of the walking capital of the lakes.

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Free crafts in the Visitor Centre - just drop in!

Address

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

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Get Crafty!
Drop in and join our team in the Visitor Centre for free craft activities. A great way to finish off your day in the forest with a simple but creative memento to take away!

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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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Carriage Café at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

Address

Bassenthwaite Lake Station, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YL

Telephone
017687 76599

info@basslakestation.co.uk

Cockermouth

The romantic ambience and art-deco features of the stunning train carriages make this a truly unique experience that is not to be missed by locomotive lovers, film enthusiasts and foodies alike! Breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas are catered for…

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Swinside Circuit

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

Telephone
01539 822222

keswicktic@lake-district.gov.uk

Cumbria

This short 8 mile road route uses country lanes to the south west of Keswick on a circular ride around Swinside Fell. The
route is on country lanes which can sometimes be busy during peak periods.

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Hot Fingers

Address

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

Telephone
+447931679654

events@threlkeld.org

Keswick

Vintage acoustic jazz music from 1920's New York and sophisticated 1930's Swing. Plus the sound of the king of gypsy swing Django Reinhardt, the blues guitars of Eddie Lang and Lonnie Johnson, and the syncopated Latin rhythms of Argentinean Oscar…

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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

Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the finest ingredients from Cumbria and further afield in creative, sustainable ways.

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898 reviews
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Derwentwater Marina

Address

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

Telephone
017687 72912

info@derwentwatermarina.co.uk

Keswick

Derwent Water Marina is situated in the peaceful and sheltered northwest corner of the lake in the picturesque village of Portinscale, just a 20-minute walk from Keswick.

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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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Keswick Brewery Tours, Bar and Shop

Address

Keswick Brewery Tours, Bar and Shop, The Old Brewery, Brewery Lane, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5BY

Telephone
017687 80700

info@keswickbrewery.co.uk

Brewery Lane, Keswick

Come and visit our brewery to find out more about us and the beers we make. Only a 2 minute walk from Keswick town centre, enjoy a beer where it’s brewed. Explore on a tour, visit our Brewery Shop, and relax in our Flying Fox Bar.

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Whinlatter Forest

Address

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

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Keswick

Prepare to be wowed by England's only true mountain forest. Rising 1000ft above sea level and set in the middle of the stunning Lake District National Park, Whinlatter offers a fantastic day out for all!

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The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon

Address

Threlkeld Village Hall, Main Street, Threlkeld, Cumbria, CA12 4RX

Telephone
07931679654

info@raggededgeproductions.co.uk

Threlkeld

The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon
A comic radio play presented live on stage.
What is the mystery of the Pirate Lagoon?Join the crew of The Prospero on an adventure to find out. Will we find the treasure? Can we escape from the evil Captain…

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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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The North Lakes Short Break with Contours Holidays

Address

Cumbria, Cumbria

Telephone
01629 821900

info@contours.co.uk

Cumbria

During the nineteenth century, adventurous tourists travelled by horse-drawn carriage through Borrowdale and onto Buttermere via the Honister Pass, before returning to Keswick through the Newlands Valley. This short trail through some of the finest…

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Sleep under the stars at Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Camping Park

Address

Castlerigg Hall, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TE

Telephone
017687 74499

info@castlerigg.co.uk

Keswick

Here at Castlerigg Hall, our holiday park is well set up to help you enjoy a night under the stars. Holiday under the night’s sky in one of our Hex Pod glamping pods, fitted with skylights so that you can appreciate the beautiful stars from the…

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622 reviews
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Hemmingways Angling Adventures

Address

Hemmingways Angling Adventures, c/o Shundraw, St Johns in the Vale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RR

Telephone
017687 78575

eric@hemmingwaysfish.co.uk

St Johns in the Vale, Keswick

Join Eric Hope, renowned Cumbrian angler and environmentalist, for unique guided fishing trips and casting tuition for individuals, groups, and corporate clients. Featured on TV with our friend Matt Hayes and on the BBC and ITV News.

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Sunnyside Guest House

Address

Sunnyside Guest House, 25 Southey St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4EF

Telephone
01768 772446

enquiries@sunnysideguesthouse.com

Keswick

Sunnyside Guest House is located in the picturesque town of Keswick and just a short walk from the town center, Derwentwater and Theatre by the Lake.

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496 reviews
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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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