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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

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…

Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed…

Brun Lea Guest House

We are a long established, 1981, family-run guest house, with friendly, relaxing atmosphere. We…

Cafe Ambio, Whinlatter Forest

"Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter Forest is set in the beautiful location of Whinlatter Forest, nestled in…

Castlerigg Hall - Camping and Touring Pitches

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

Castle Inn Tavern

The Castle Inn Tavern at the Lake District Castle Inn Hotel and Spa offers cosy surroundings,…

The Cottage in the Wood

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

Keswick

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

Long Valley Yurts - Keswick

With jaw-dropping views down the valley over Bassenthwaite Lake and just a stones throw from…

Blencathra

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

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…

The Royal Oak, Keswick

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

The Cottage in the Wood

We are a relaxed, gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, the only true mountain forest in…

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

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

Woodland Reset

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

Skiddaw & Thirlmere

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

Sands Trek Together

Join Sands in the Lake District National Park for this one day event and take on either a 10 mile…

Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

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

Herdy Keswick

Welcome to Herdy Keswick – a cheerful little shop in the heart of the Lake District, inspired by…

Embleton Spa Hotel

Originally an 18th Century Lakeland farm house, the Embleton Spa Hotel is a relaxed, informal hotel…

Functions and Meetings at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

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

Wild Forest Sauna

Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge | Whinlatter Forest Step into the wild beauty of the Lake District and…

Forest Art for Children

Join us for an arty day at Whinlatter. Let the forest inspire your little ones to create your…

Low Briery Holiday Park

Low Briery Holiday Park is situated just outside Keswick, in a beautiful wooded valley in the…

The Lake District Where modern tourism was born

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Towns & Villages

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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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534 reviews
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Dark Skies Weekend

Address

Cumbria, Keswick, Little Crosthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QD

Telephone
+441768772255

bookings@calvertlakes.org.uk

Little Crosthwaite, Keswick

Embrace winter with fresh air, star-gazing and warm waters.
Escape to the Lakes this winter and immerse yourself in our Dark Skies experience. This themed weekend is ideal for those who love nature, serenity and are interested in the night sky. Our…

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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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Long Valley Yurts - Keswick

Address

Kestrel Lodge Campsite, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QX

Telephone
01539 267030

glamping@long-valley-yurts.co.uk

Keswick

With jaw-dropping views down the valley over Bassenthwaite Lake and just a stones throw from Keswick, our site at Kestrel Lodge Campsite makes for an ideal location for exploring the Lake District and northern fells. A quiet, family run, family…

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Watendlath

Address

Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5UW

Cumbria

Borrowdale is a marvellous place to be; its crags, woodland, rivers and lakes make for an ideal setting; the epitome of Lakeland. This route is unashamedly easy being mostly on tarmac and with few problems encountered on the off-road sections,…

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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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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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Sally's Cottages

Address

7 St John's Street, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5AP

Telephone
017687 80571

sally@sallyscottages.co.uk

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 700 dog-friendly cottages.

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Spa and Leisure at The Lake District Castle Inn Hotel & Spa

Address

Castle Inn Hotel by BW Signature Collection, Keswick, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RG

Telephone
01768776401

info@LakeDistrictCastleInn.com

Keswick

A welcoming leisure and spa destination for locals and guests alike, featuring pool, gym, tennis and relaxing spa treatments in a beautiful Bassenthwaite setting.

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Peel Wood

Address

East Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8AQ

Telephone
015394 41456

coniston@nationaltrust.org.uk

Coniston

This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.

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Keswick Convention 2026

Address

The Pencil Factory, The Pencil Factory, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5NG

Telephone
017687 80075

info@keswickministries.org

Keswick

The annual Keswick Convention has been taking place since 1875. A completely free event offering life-changing Bible teaching, worship and fellowship, with fantastic Kids & Youth programme for 3-18 year olds, in the heart of the beautiful Lake…

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Emergence: Ravel and Elgar

Address

St John's Church, Ambleside Road, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4DD

Telephone
01539 266 200

boxoffice@ldsm.org.uk

Keswick

Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival
Nadejda String Quartet | Resol String Quartet
Ravel String Quartet in F
Elgar String Quartet in E minor
Kindly supported by Ian & Susan Pettman and the Haworth Trust
A journey from impressionistic…

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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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Embleton Spa Hotel

Address

Embleton Spa Hotel, Embleton, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YA

Telephone
017687 76606

enquiries@embletonspa.co.uk

Cockermouth

Originally an 18th Century Lakeland farm house, the Embleton Spa Hotel is a relaxed, informal hotel with delightful en-suite rooms, suites and apartments. Perfect for exploring Keswick, Cockermouth and the Lakes.

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Tourism For All

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1108 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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Lindisfarne House

Address

Lindisfarne Guest House, 21 Church St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4DX

Telephone
017687 73218

info@lindisfarne-keswick.co.uk

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,…

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Bob Graham Round with Contours Holidays

Address

Cumbria, Cumbria

Telephone
01629 821900

info@contours.co.uk

Cumbria

At Contours Holidays, we think that the Bob Graham Round is simply too good a route to be restricted to elite fell runners, so we’ve turned it into an awesome walking holiday by extending the route slightly, so that each day ends in a village with…

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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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915 reviews
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Borrowdale and Castle Crag

Address

Keswick, Cumbria

Cumbria

Slap bang in the middle of Borrowdale is Castle Crag. It's rather small, this perfectly formed little peak, but it nevertheless managed to resist the erosive forces of the valley glacier and remains today with its head high above the trees. A walk…

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Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges

Address

Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4QZ

Telephone
01768776641

enquiries@blll.co.uk

Keswick

5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.

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Bassenthwaite

Culture & Heritage

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Did you know?

GLACIAL WATERS

THE BISHOP OF BARF

CELTIC SWORDS

ALFRED TENNYSON

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