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In 1799 William Wordsworth arrived in Grasmere aged 29, largely unknown and writing innovative poetry that came as a shocking contrast to the fashionable verses of the time. Whilst living at Dove Cottage with his family, Wordsworth wrote many of his greatest poems and his sister Dorothy kept her fascinating Grasmere journal. Wordsworth Grasmere tells the story of this remarkable period of ‘plain living and high thinking’.
Step into another century as you experience the sights, sounds and smells of Dove Cottage. Moments taken from the Wordsworths’ poems, journals and letters have been recreated, telling the story of their life here.
Stroll through the Garden-Orchard, which has been restored to resemble the ‘domestic slip of mountain’ that the Wordsworths lovingly created. Wordsworth described this humble fell-side garden as ‘the loveliest spot man hath ever found’ and the feelings of joy, solace and inspiration it provided can still be felt in this special place. Play and explore in The Woodland, a wild and relaxed space.
Wordsworth’s poetry centred around the ideals of love of Nature, the power of the imagination and the importance of empathy for others. His writing still has the power to speak to us today. Our Museum tells the story of Wordsworth’s radical and creative life through a collection of handwritten manuscripts, journals, letters, published poetry and personal items. It features contemporary voices from Poet Laureate Simon Armitage to people living and working in Cumbria today. There are hands on things to do for all ages, including a working printing press and quill and ink writing. Finishing your visit atop the Viewing Station, take a moment to reflect and appreciate Grasmere vale, which Wordsworth described as ‘paradise’.
From gallery tours to nature journaling, there are guided activities running every day of the week. Our Café serves wholesome, locally sourced food and drink.
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18 May to 28 June
Tuesday to Saturday
10am–5pm (last entry to Dove Cottage is 4.20pm & to the Museum is 4.30pm)
29 June to 31 October
Monday to Sunday
10am–5pm (last entry to Dove Cottage is 4.20pm & to the Museum is 4.30pm)
Dove Cottage, Museum, Garden-Orchard & The Woodland
Adult - £12.00
Concession - £8.50
Child 6–16 years (5s and under free) - £5.00
1 Adult Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) - £20.00
2 Adult Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) - £32.00
Museum, Garden-Orchard & The Woodland
Adult - £8.50
Concession - £7.50
Child 6–16 years (5s and under free) - £4.00
1 Adult Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) - £15.00
2 Adult Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) - £23.00
Wordsworth Grasmere - Meetings, GrasmereA visit to Dove Cottage today transports you back to this remarkable period of ‘plain living and…
By Bus: Hop on the regular 599 open top service from Bowness, Windermere and Ambleside. Sit back, relax and admire the stunning views across the Lakes. The 555 also runs regularly between Keswick, Grasmere, Windermere and Kendal. The bus stops just across the Road from Wordsworth Grasmere.By bike: There are cycle parking stands near the attraction's restaurant.On Foot: There is an easy and safe two-minute walking route from Grasmere to Wordsworth Grasmere along Stock Lane. There is also a lakeside path or the Coffin Trail Bridleway which links Grasmere to Rydal near Ambleside. Both are fairly easy-going routes with great views.By Car: Leave the M6 at jct 36, follow signs for Kendal, Windermere and Ambleside. Wordsworth Grasmere is located on the A591, the main Kendal to Keswick road through the Lake District, just South of the Grasmere mini roundabout.Accessible by Public Transport: Windermere station is 8 miles away.
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