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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.
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).
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.
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 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.
An unique opportunity for anyone over 16 years old. After enjoying a Bird of Prey flying display…
13 Valleys celebrates the 13 unique valleys of the Lake District National Park which are part of…
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller…
The church is situated centrally in Keswick and stands out by virtue of its tall spire. The site…
Massage training courses in the Lakes... learn how to provide effective massage treatments on a…
Isel church is a beautiful Grade I listed building, which is located in an idyllic position in a…
The church, dedicated to the Celtic Saint Bega, is situated in a picture perfect setting in fields…
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Rosetrees is a stunning six-bedroom, six-bathroom Victorian residence set on the picturesque shores…
A 200 year old Cottage overlooking Fitz Park with stunning views of the River Greta, Skiddaw and…
Open evening to help shape a new Women's Institute for Keswick
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The Lodge is a spacious five-bedroom retreat set within its own private garden at The Lingholm…
Our well-stocked Shop goes from strength to strength as we increase our range of products. Our…
Inside just got interesting. Step off the trail and into a space where the Lake District is…
5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.
Lindisfarne is a Victorian house quietly situated, but within a few minutes walk to the town…
Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake…
The Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station and Carriage Cafe offers a unique…
During the nineteenth century, adventurous tourists travelled by horse-drawn carriage through…
Armathwaite Hall has created a timeless, yet contemporary countryside spa within a stunning rural…
Since 1847 we’ve been committed to selling the best food and drink in attractive stores staffed…
One of the Lakeland classics. Bikers have been enjoying this route since the dawn of cycling. A…
Fine food, drink and accommodation at the foot of Blencathera. Dine unwind and stay in our finely…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Bassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite
The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed bedrooms, wood panelled public rooms, real log fire, Lake View Restaurant, six conference rooms, croquet lawn, tennis courts and spa facility.
Keswick
Experience adventure at Keswick Mountain Festival (15-17 May 2026) with trail runs, hikes, triathlons, live music, outdoor brands & more in the stunning Lake District. Book now!
Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite
Looking for things to do this May half term in Keswick? Head to Go Ape Whinlatter Forest near Keswick for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Open throughout the school holidays and bank holiday, Go Ape offers two thrilling high ropes experiences…
Portinscale
Keepers Cottage was lovingly rebuilt in 2016 and now offers stylish four-bedroom accommodation with spectacular views of the surrounding fells, with the lake, playground, and squirrel hide just a short stroll away, it is perfectly placed for guests…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District
The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection, release, and renewal. At our special forest site in the Lake District, we gather in circle as women to honour the peak of the Moon's cycle and reconnect…
Keswick
An interactive world of optical illusions including illusion rooms, holograms and interactive exhibits to amaze the whole family, young and old! Do you believe your eyes?
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…
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…
Portinscale
One of the apartments in the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house and steeped in history, Skiddaw served as a creative sanctuary for Beatrix Potter in the late 1890s. It was from these bedroom windows that she captured the view for her piece…
Cumbria
An 18.7 miles (30.2km) circular cycling route around Borrowdale, taking in spectacular scenery and some wonderful Lake District views.
Keswick
Raised in circa 3000BC, Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric of all British stone circles with the mountain of Helvellyn as a dramatic backdrop.
Keswick
Catering for families and couples, Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Caravan Park occupies one of the finest positions in the Lake District overlooking Derwentwater with breath-taking views of the surrounding fells.
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,…
Keswick
A British Rowing affiliated rowing competition, launching from Keswick Foreshore and racing the length of Derwentwater.
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
Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival
Aquarelle Guitar Quartet
Rossini Sinfonia from The Italian Girl in Algiers
Rimsky-Korsakov Capriccio Espagnol (arr. William Kanengiser)
Ariel Ramírez and Félix Luna Alfonsina y el mar
Traditional…
Lake Rd, Keswick
A brand new show for 7-10 year olds and their grown-ups.
Welcome to our interactive science demo – with a twist! We need YOU to to take on some big challenges and help us save the day.
How can we make things more fair? And what could go wrong if…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Join photographer Steve Blake on a 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 techniques of landscape…
Keswick
BounceFest is a high-energy inflatable play experience for children aged 0–12 years, filled with giant bouncy castles, thrilling slides, obstacle courses, interactive games and a dedicated toddler area for little adventurers. Families book timed…
Lowther, Penrith
Join us for a fun-filled evening of live outdoor theatre with Pinocchio performed to the stunning backdrop of Lowther Castle!
A wonderful event for the whole family, the talented Illyria Theatre Company celebrates this magical coming-of-age tale in…
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