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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
Number of results: 167
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Whinlatter Pass, Keswick
Enchanting evenings of music in the forest, with floor spots, special guests and an informal session to round off the evening.
Cumbria
North of Skiddaw lies an area of high moors and rolling hills. Bleak and lonely – these fells do not attract the crowds as do their southern neighbours. Great sweeps of open fells dominate the landscape relieved only by the becks. Penetrating this…
Keswick
Residential outdoor adventure holidays for people with disabilities, including those with the most complex needs. It’s what you can do that counts!
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.…
Keswick
Hiring a boat is the perfect way to get out & explore Derwent Water. Choose from our huge selection of crafts to hire - go Paddle Boarding, Kayaking, Canoeing, Rowing or a Pedalo.
Keswick
Beautiful Lakeland stone 19thC building in exquisite gardens. Spectacular mountain views with immediate access to superb walks and forest trails. Located on a lower slope of Skiddaw mountain.
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.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
684 reviewsKeswick
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!
Brewery Lane, Keswick
Visit our beer shop selling bottled beers and cans, local gins and cider, merchandise and beer chutney. We have a great beer selection to drink in or take away. Come and visit our brewery to find out more about us and the beers we make. Only a 2…
Keswick
Lindisfarne is a Victorian house quietly situated, but within a few minutes walk to the town centre, lakes, parks and Theatre By The Lake. We offer clean and comfortable accommodation in our four star guest house, with a hearty Cumbrian breakfast,…
Nr Bassenthwaite Lake
The award-winning Lakes Distillery Company opened in December 2014 in The Lake District National Park with the vision of producing a world class single malt whisky and a global brand that is recognised and respected around the world
Lake Rd, Keswick
Theatre by the Lake has a setting on the shores of Derwentwater no other professional theatre in Britain can match. Each year it stages up to nine of its own productions of classic, modern and new plays and has won multi-starred reviews.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The full Hunters' moon, is named for the hunting our ancestors would have done at this time of year, preparing for the winter months ahead.
This is the time to welcome the darker months of the year, an opportunity for introspection and self…
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.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
564 reviewsKeswick
Join our Head Chef Chris Lyon and our restaurant team for an experience you wont forget.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2335 reviewsKeswick
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.
Bassenthwaite 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,…
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.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
809 reviewsBassenthwaite Lake, owned by the National Park Authority, is 4 miles long and 3/4 mile wide, and 70ft deep and home to the rare vendace fish species.
Coniston
This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.
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