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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.
The Challenging Whinlatter Forest is the venue for this Trail Half Marathon & 10k in May 2024. With…
This small and friendly guest house is located a short walk from the town centre and many of the…
Low Briery Holiday Park is situated just outside Keswick, in a beautiful wooded valley in the…
A unique and special cafe experience on board the replica Orient Express train and restored station…
With jaw-dropping views down the valley over Bassenthwaite Lake and just a stones throw from…
Join our experienced, knowledgeable Ranger as they lead you around our amazing WOW Trail! The Wow…
In the centre of Keswick and with a recently refurbished community room, the Moot Hall is the…
Join us for an evening of intrigue and opulence aboard the Orient Express! Our Murder Mystery…
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller…
The full Cold moon illuminates our deepest desires with her magical bright light. Whilst the world…
Residential outdoor adventure holidays for people with disabilities, including those with the most…
The 15 stones, of which the tallest is just under one metre, form an almost perfect circle some 40…
Slap bang in the middle of Borrowdale is Castle Crag. It's rather small, this perfectly formed…
Beautiful Lakeland stone 19thC building in exquisite gardens. Spectacular mountain views with…
One of the most scenic half marathon routes in the country. The challenging course takes you around…
A luxury, family run country house hotel and restaurant near Keswick in The Lake District National…
The church, dedicated to the Celtic Saint Bega, is situated in a picture perfect setting in fields…
Coledale itself is a classic U shaped valley that is typical of many in the Lake District, but…
The full Beaver Moon is symbolised by busy beavers, preparing for the winter months ahead. It is…
Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm.…
Brought to you by the National Trust and Mobile Adventure, an opportunity to get out on the lake…
Hire a rowing or motor boat and explore Derwentwater and its islands under your own steam. No…
The full Flower (or Hare) moon aligns with the colourful early summer flowers blooming and…
Visit our beer shop selling bottled beers and cans, local gins and cider, merchandise and beer…
The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
Number of results: 174
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The Challenging Whinlatter Forest is the venue for this Trail Half Marathon & 10k in May 2024. With breath-taking views across the Lake District towards Keswick and Skiddaw this run won't disappoint those who love the Lakes. The runs are mainly on…
Keswick
This small and friendly guest house is located a short walk from the town centre and many of the rooms enjoy fine views of the surrounding fells. Bedrooms are well equipped and the breakfast room overlooks the small front garden.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
193 reviewsKeswick
Low Briery Holiday Park is situated just outside Keswick, in a beautiful wooded valley in the English Lake District.
Discover the freedom a self catering holiday in the Lake District offers.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
171 reviewsCockermouth
A unique and special cafe experience on board the replica Orient Express train and restored station buildings, with a level-access path along the former platform and through woodland teeming with wildlife. Serving interesting and fresh cafe food,…
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…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Join our experienced, knowledgeable Ranger as they lead you around our amazing WOW Trail!
The Wow trail is a 4.5-mile walking trail showcasing the wonders of Whinlatter, England's only true mountain forest.
Be prepared to enjoy fantastic views,…
Cockermouth
Join us for an evening of intrigue and opulence aboard the Orient Express! Our Murder Mystery nights really are like no other. Seated on our stunning steam train and surrounded by 1930’s decor, you will be transported to an era gone by whilst the…
Keswick
Brought to you by the National Trust and Experience Community for the Keswick Mountain Festival, join us for a short guided taster walk suitable for off-road mobility equipment.
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.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The full Cold moon illuminates our deepest desires with her magical bright light. Whilst the world is at rest, our dreams for the year ahead are beginning to form in readiness for the return of the sun at the upcoming winter solstice.
Keswick
Residential outdoor adventure holidays for people with disabilities, including those with the most complex needs. It’s what you can do that counts!
Braithwaite, Keswick
The full Pink moon aligns with spring flowers bursting into life and symbolises happiness & optimism, a time to focus our energy on creating and manifesting our dreams and goals.
Calling in the elements & directions we cast a sacred circle to…
Embleton
The 15 stones, of which the tallest is just under one metre, form an almost perfect circle some 40 metres in diameter. Only 15 stones of the original 30 remain.
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…
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.
Crow Park Road, Keswick
One of the most scenic half marathon routes in the country. The challenging course takes you around Derwentwater with an extra loop into the Newlands valley.
Organised by Keswick Rugby Club
Keswick
A luxury, family run country house hotel and restaurant near Keswick in The Lake District National Park. Lyzzick Hall is a perfect base for a walking, sight-seeing or relaxing break.
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.
Cockermouth
Join us for celestial exploration of flavour for one night only, Saturday 4th May 2024.
To celebrate the launch of Galáxia, you are invited to join us at the distillery for an evening of stargazing and whisky tasting. Co-hosted by local…
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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