One of the oldest museums in Britain, the Kendal Museum was set up in 1796 and has continued its wonderful tradition of collecting, preserving and exhibiting artifacts. Not just from the surrounding areas of Kendal, one can also sight collections spanning across geology, natural history and archaeology. Permanent and visiting exhibitions are well-attended by the townsfolk, while regular work shops, lectures and fun activities are organized for those of all ages. Check website for details.
Get a feel of how grammar was taught and learned years ago in England. The Hawkshead Grammar School Museum also houses a unique collection of artifacts relating to the ancient school, some of which even date back to the 16th Century. Upon entry, visitors are welcomed with a short talk on the school, after which they can examine the schoolroom and the display upstairs. Operated by Hawkshead Grammar School Foundation, they also provide grants to young people to assist their education further along with vocational training or even as far as entry into work.
Comprising much of Hawkshead town and the neighboring woodlands of Claife, Hawkshead and Claife include several ruins of ancient residences. Beatrix Potter Gallery is found in the village and offers an interesting insight into the history of the village's pottery. The hamlet is enveloped by breathtaking vistas which include Windermere lakeside. Claife Station overlooks Windermere and is home to several ruins of homes whose rooms were glazed in changing colored panels which make it appear as a portrait of differing seasons.
A hill gifted with a picturesque topography, Latterbarrow in Hawkshead was mentioned in The Outlying Fells of Lakeland, which was written by Alfred Wainwright. Overlooking the village, the mountain which is surmounted by a monument provides spectacular views of the Ambleside district and Hawkshead.
Regarded as one of the first monuments in the Lake District, Claife Viewing Station has been dated back to the early 18th-Century. Overlooking the marvelous Windermere, which is one of the United Kingdom's largest natural lakes, the platform provides panoramic views of the lake.
Built at the end of the 18th Century by Thomas Woodville, Brantwood was the childhood home of Britain's most beloved artist and poet John Ruskin. After his death, it changed owners but the house was maintained and thrown open to the public. Not just this, there are a number of cultural events and educational activities organized here such as outdoor theater, garden walks, summer camps for kids, campfires and BBQ by the lake, craft fairs, classical concerts and readings by Ruskin. Check website for varying open days.
Adorning the serene landscape of Lake District National Park, the Great Langdale is a beautiful valley. Teeming with opportunities for adventurous activities aplenty, the valley is popular among intrepid travelers. Whether you are looking to take on a challenging hike, run along imposing fells or scale rising massifs, this valley has got you covered. Apart from its far-reaching fame as a thrilling destination, the Great Langdale is also renowned for its historical significance. During the Neolithic era, the valley is believed that to have been the site where the stone axe industry and the slate industry flourished.
Nestled centrally in the beautiful Lake District National Park, Ullswater is considered one of the larger water bodies of Lake District. The picturesque lake of Ullswater offers a range of recreational activities like swimming, camping and many more. This pristine lake is enveloped by stunning scenery in the south and gentle hills in the north. The massifs surrounding the lake invite a slew of rock climbers, suitable for beginners as well as seasoned climbers. Take in dramatic views or indulge in thrilling activities only at Ullswater.
Framing the western end of the Lake District National Park, the imposing massif of High Stile is regarded as one of the higher peaks of the region. Towering at a height of 807 meters (2,648 feet), High Stile combined with Red Pike and High Crag forms a trio of fells overlooking Buttermere. If you identify as a novice climber, do scale the alluring summit of High Stile for thrilling adventures and scenic highlands and sights of the national park.
One of the smaller lakes in the region, Loweswater is in the English Lake District, in the village of Loweswater. Not too far away from Cockermouth, it is also easily accessible from West Cumbria. The Loweswater Fells get their name from this lake, as the lake is right in the middle of all the fells. The water from this lake eventually comes out and reaches the sea at Workington. It is under the ownership of the National Trust and there are several activities that you can plan in the day such as rowing boats and other sports.
Occupying the heart of the Lake District, Easedale Tarn is an azure attraction of the region. Found close to the village of Grasmere, the tarn attracts scores of nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Lying in a hollow between Tarn Crag to the north and Blea Rigg to the south, it is said to have been formed when a glacier, about 11,000 years ago, melted completely and turned into water. Regarded as one of the largest tarns of the district, Easedale Tarn is a popular destination for walkers and hikers.