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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

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

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

Watendlath

Borrowdale is a marvellous place to be; its crags, woodland, rivers and lakes make for an ideal…

St Michael and All Angels, Isel

Isel church is a beautiful Grade I listed building, which is located in an idyllic position in a…

Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges

5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.

Lake District Calvert Trust

The Lake District Calvert Trust is a unique outdoor adventure centre dedicated to providing…

Castlerigg Hall - Camping and Touring Pitches

Catering for families and couples, Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Caravan Park occupies one of the…

The Cottage in the Wood

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

Whinlatter Forest

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

Flavours from the Farm: A Zimbabwean Dinner with Neels

Born and raised on a farm in Zimbabwe in an Afrikaans family, Neels invites you to reminisce with…

Keswick

Keswick is an attractive traditional small market town, which offers a variety of attractions,…

Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

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

Conferences at The Lingholm Estate

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

Derwentwater Marina

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

Afternoon Tea at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm.…

Altra 13 Valleys Ultra

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

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…

Functions and Meetings at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

This stunning salon carriage offers the perfect location as a quirky and intimate venue for your…

Sunnyside Guest House

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

The Lake District Wildlife Park

Go wild & experience a world of wildlife! There's over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra. Rare and…

The Horse and Farrier Inn - Food & Drink

The Horse and Farrier has an excellent reputation for good food from our hearty Lakeland breakfast…

Swinside Circuit

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

The Lodge at The Lingholm Estate

The Lodge is a spacious five-bedroom retreat set within its own private garden at The Lingholm…

Whinlatter Walking Trails

Whinlatter is the place to enjoy peaceful forest walks surrounded by stunning Lake District…

Sally's Cottages

Sally's Cottages is an award-winning, local, family run holiday cottage letting agency in Keswick…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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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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St. Bega's Church, Bassenthwaite

Address

St. Bega's Church, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QZ

vicar@binsey.org.uk

Keswick

The church, dedicated to the Celtic Saint Bega, is situated in a picture perfect setting in fields on the east shore of Bassenthwaite Lake.

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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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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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Northern String Quartet

Address

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

Telephone
+447931679654

events@threlkeld.org

Keswick

The Northern String Quartet is a highly acclaimed and award-winning ensemble based in the UK, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025. Renowned for its versatility and musical excellence, the quartet has performed on prestigious platforms such as…

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Castlerigg Hall - Holiday Home Hire

Address

Castlerigg Hall, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TE

Telephone
017687 74499

info@castlerigg.co.uk

Keswick

Formerly a Lakeland Hill Farm, Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Camping 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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Rosetrees at The Lingholm Estate

Address

The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Cumbria, CA12 5TZ

Telephone
017687 74238

stay@thelingholmestate.co.uk

Portinscale

Rosetrees is a stunning six-bedroom, six-bathroom Victorian residence set on the picturesque shores of Derwentwater. This spacious home retains many of its original features, which add to its timeless charm and elegance.
Whether you are admiring…

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
534 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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Family Friendly Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Address

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

Telephone
07827298695

steveblakephotography@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join photographer Steve Blake on a family friendly half day workshop.
Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment is a perfect setting in which to 'dip your toe' into the world of landscape photography.
You'll explore different elements and…

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St. John's Church, Keswick

Address

Ambleside Road, KESWICK, Cumbria, CA12 4DD

Telephone
01768 775855

KESWICK

The church is situated centrally in Keswick and stands out by virtue of its tall spire. The site for this church commands superb views of the surrounding Lakeland hills.

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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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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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The Churchfitters - Christmas Cracker

Address

Threlkeld Village Hall, Threlkeld, keswick, cumbria, CA12 4RX

Telephone
+447931679654

events@threlkeld.org

keswick

The Churchfitters is a folk band like no other. These three flamboyant characters present their uplifting and enormously entertaining 'Christmas Cracker' show with a unique dynamism and describe their music as "Folk Unlimited". The three virtuoso…

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Dining at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Address

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa, B5291, Bassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite, Cumbria, CA12 4RE

Telephone
01768 776551

reservations@armathwaite-hall.com

Bassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite

Connoisseurs of fine cuisine will find much to appreciate at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa. Chef takes full advantage of a wealth of local seasonal produce and Cumbrian specialities to create a variety of gastronomic delights.

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Wild Forest Sauna

Address

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

Telephone
07891 291847

hello@theconsciousself.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge | Whinlatter Forest
Step into the wild beauty of the Lake District and experience the powerful combination of heat, cold water and nature with our Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge sessions in Whinlatter Forest.
Set high among…

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Keswick Film Festival

Address

Keswick Film Festival, The Alhambra Cinema, St John's St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5AG

Telephone
017687 72195

admin@keswickfilmfestival.org

St John's St, Keswick

Keswick Film Festival is Cumbria’s premiere cinematic event bringing the best of international and independent cinema from across the world for those who love films and the beautiful setting of the Lake District.

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Red squirrel feeder walk

Address

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

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Walk with our ranger with your little ones and help to fill the squirrel feeders in the forest!
Whinlatter is a red squirrel reserve and we like to make sure our fantastic reds have lots of food to munch on to keep them strong and healthy. This…

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Coledale Round

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

Cumbria

Coledale itself is a classic U shaped valley that is typical of many in the Lake District, but unlike others it has no habitation. In fact the only obvious sign of human presence is the remains of the old barytes mine at the valley head and the…

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Lake District Cycling 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

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.

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Forest Art for Children

Address

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

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join us for an arty day at Whinlatter.
Let the forest inspire your little ones to create your own piece of art. With various materials provided, this is their chance to try out new mediums and methods.
Suitable for children aged…

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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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Tourism For All

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