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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.
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.
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.
Fun facts and tantalising trivia about Bassenthwaite. Click for more details.
Keswick Convention is a unique Christian event. Christians from all over the UK and from around the…
One of the most scenic half marathon routes in the country. The challenging course takes you around…
The village of Bassenthwaite lies around 1 mile east of Bassenthwaite Lake. The lake is the most…
Contours Holidays designed the Derwentwater Round as a gentle, relaxing two-day meander around the…
The northern and eastern slopes of Skiddaw are strikingly different than other Lake District fells.…
Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa is a privately owned 17th century former stately home near to…
Slap bang in the middle of Borrowdale is Castle Crag. It's rather small, this perfectly formed…
An unique opportunity for anyone over 16 years old. After enjoying a Bird of Prey flying display…
Hire a rowing or motor boat and explore Derwentwater and its islands under your own steam. No…
Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.
Choose between the 60km or 99km routes starting just outside Keswick. The route takes us into…
The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by…
The Disabled Ramblers is a small national charity working to help those with limited mobility to…
Keswick Mountain Festival is the UK's largest participatory, outdoors multi-sports event in the UK.…
Booths is a family owned and operated independent supermarket with over 160 years tradition of…
Brought to you by the National Trust and Mobile Adventure, an opportunity to get out on the lake…
Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A…
Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A…
With jaw-dropping views down the valley over Bassenthwaite Lake and just a stones throw from…
An interactive world of optical illusions including illusion rooms, holograms and interactive…
Brought to you by the National Trust for Heritage Open Days. Come and join us for a rare…
Leisure at the Castle Inn offers a great range of facilities available to our Members and guests…
Join us for an evening of intrigue and opulence aboard the Orient Express! Our Murder Mystery…
The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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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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809 reviewsBassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite
Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm. Diners can choose from a selection of savoury and sweet treats, including sandwiches and filled mini brioche rolls, quiche, homemade cake, biscuits,…
Keswick
Keswick Launch offers 50-minute cruises around Derwentwater. Rowing boats and motor boats are also available to hire.
Ireby
An elegant 18th century country house hotel set in its own extensive grounds in the stunning northern Lake District. Luxury accommodation, award-winning food and genuine hospitality. Dogs welcome.
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684 reviewsKeswick
Laurel Bank B&B is a guest house in Keswick which prides itself on the high quality of its bed and breakfast holiday accommodation.
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962 reviewsVarious locations in Cumbria
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller in mind, we aim to show you the hidden gems of the Lake District and also offer the option of electric bikes.
Braithwaite, Keswick
Celebrate the energy of the winter solstice with forest bathing in the beautiful Whinlatter forest. At the shortest day, we take our lead from Mother Nature; slowing down our bodies and minds to the rhythm of the forest.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The full Harvest moon shines bright in the sky, giving light for the gathering of crops. This beautiful super moon illuminates our own personal harvest as we approach the Autumn Equinox, a time of balance and reflection.
Lake Rd, Keswick
Downtown on Skid Row, weedy flower shop assistant Seymour is down on his luck until he stumbles across a mysterious new plant with killer potential. Fame and fortune follow but will this win the attention of the girl of his dreams, or will the…
Cockermouth
The ONE 10 is an accurately measured and certified 10 mile road race. The race is sponsored by the Lakes Distillery (www.lakesdistillery.com) and is named after their iconic "The One" whisky. The course starts and finishes at the distillery, taking…
Keswick
Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica graphite mine which would have served as the source of the pencil industry over three centuries ago.
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.
Keswick
Set in Threlkeld, a quiet village just outside of Keswick with views of Blencathra and surrounding fells. Spacious, cosy and with an abundance of walks from the doorstep. Garden with patio, garden furniture and barbecue. Private parking for 3 cars.…
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…
Keswick
Sally's Cottages is an award-winning, local, family run holiday cottage letting agency in Keswick with 500 self-catering holiday cottages in the Lake District and Cumbria, including over 270 dog-friendly cottages.
Keswick
Overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and some of England’s highest fells, the Castle Inn offers the warmest of welcomes and leisure facilities that provide the opportunity to unwind after a long day.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The full Flower (or Hare) moon aligns with the colourful early summer flowers blooming and symbolises fertility, growth and change; blossoming into your fullest potential!
Calling in the elements & directions we cast a sacred circle to celebrate…
Cockermouth
A unique and special cafe experience on board the replica Orient Express train and restored station buildings, with a level-access path along the former platform and through woodland teeming with wildlife. Serving interesting and fresh cafe food,…
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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809 reviewsLake Rd, Keswick
A high-flying adventure for all the family…
Raised in the Indian jungle, Mowgli the man cub spends his boyhood days running wild with his wolf friends and hunting with the pack.
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