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Grasmere, one of the Lake District’s prettiest villages nestled in a vale just north of the lake (also called Grasmere) and crowned by magnificent fells and mountains on all sides. This is romantic England at its purest: immediately south of town is the rugged peak of Helm Crag (aka ‘the Lion and the Lamb’), while to the north is the ancient cairn known as Dunmail Raise. All around it are the scattered hamlets and farmsteads, while dense woodlands and lush meadows fringe the lakes of Grasmere, Rydal Water and Loughrigg Tarn.
It's little wonder that so many famous painters, poets, writers and craftsmen have been drawn to the area over the years. Wordsworth described the vale of Grasmere and Rydal as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’, before moving here permanently. Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Southey and Sir Walter Scott also stayed here, whilst the writer Thomas de Quincey moved into Dove Cottage on Wordsworth’s departure.
From the 18th century onwards, many artists journeyed here in search of ‘the picturesque and the sublime’, including William Green, John Constable and Turner. In more recent times, the Heaton Cooper family succeeded in capturing the changing moods of the Lake District in watercolours.
Food & Drink in Grasmere and Rydal
Anyone who visits Grasmere and nearby Rydal just has to experience a post-walk cream tea. Tearooms, some of which are hidden away in beautiful surroundings, will guarantee you a warm welcome, with a variety of teas and coffees on offer and scones and homemade cakes to die for. Well worth plotting into your walking plans!
For a small place, Grasmere does well with its fine dining experiences, whilst still maintaining an unstuffy and relaxing atmosphere. It even boasts a Michellin Star restaurant, where fine dining is taken up to another level. Fine dining is available in many restaurants here, offering exquisite explosions of flavours, where the food is absolutely faultless.
Grasmere also has some amazing quirky cafes with twinkling lights and scatter cushions creating a lovely ambiance in which to enjoy a very high standard of food. As with many of these charming little cafes-come-restaurants, they’re very popular, so it’s wise to book ahead if you’re going in the evening.
After a long day on the Grasmere fells, stepping into a welcoming pub is like a little piece of heaven. They’re all dog-friendly with reliable WiFi and offer a superb choice of local ales and award-winning food. There’s everything from a 16C coaching inn, full of old world charm and roaring log fires and panoramic views - to characterful walkers’ bars, offering tasty classic pub food. But before you leave Grasmere there’s one more must-try foods – the delicious sweet treat, Grasmere Gingerbread.
Culture & Heritage
Grasmere’s early history was all about farming, the manufacture of wool as well as some mineral and rock extraction. In the middle of the 16th century, Grasmere was home to 15 ‘fulling’ mills, where newly woven fabrics were pounded in soapy water with heavy hammers (or ‘stocks;’ hence Stock Lane in town) to shrink the fibres and therefore create denser, fuller fabric.
Local woods were coppiced to supply charcoal for iron ore smelting and bark for tanneries, and with greater prosperity in the 18th century came a building spurt, with the stone drawn from local quarries – White Stone quarry on the A591 was one of these (it’s now a car park).
Several packhorse trails once radiated out from the village; the ponies carrying cloths, fleeces, and other goods to markets in Keswick, Penrith and Kendal (via Ambleside). The old packhorse trail between Ambleside and Grasmere used to be the main route between the two towns before the new turnpike road (now the A591) was opened in 1770.
For most contemporary visitors, though, it’s the arrival of the Romantics from the middle of the 18th century that really put Grasmere and the surrounding area on the map. Painters, writers and poets in search of the picturesque and romantic notions of beauty came to explore the Lake District. William Wordsworth (1770–1850) came to live here in 1799 and spent much time walking in the area, composing lines of poetry based on what he experienced. His most inspirational years were spent at Dove Cottage (1799–1808). He and his family then moved to the more spacious Allan Bank (1808–1811), followed by a short stint at the Rectory (1811–1814) and lastly to Rydal Mount (1814–1850). Fellow poets and writers, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Southey and Sir Walter Scott, were frequent guests of the Wordsworths.
Once the new turnpike roads were completed in the late 18th century and the railway had arrived in Windermere in 1847, Victorian tourists came in their droves to experience the landscapes that had inspired the Lake Poets.
Surrounding Areas
Rydal - The hamlet of Rydal is associated with two influential families: the Le Flemings and the Wordsworths. Rydal Hall was the home of the Le Fleming family who moved here from Coniston Hall and Rydal Mount was Wordsworth’s home for the last 37 years of his life.
Thirlmere - Thirlmere is a pretty, clear lake with a wooded shoreline and is best enjoyed from the west shore which winds its way through the trees.Thirlmere was once two smaller lakes called Leatheswater and Brackmere. The two lakes were joined by a footbridge until damning in 1879 created a rise in the water levels and Thirlmere was formed as the two lakes overflowed. It now serves as a water supply for Manchester.
Did you know?
Peace OakThe Peace Oak in Broadgate Meadow (next to the river), was planted by Canon Rawnsley on 19 July 1919 to mark a day of peace on the anniversary of the start of World War One.- Rydal Coffin RouteThe Rydal Coffin route was originally the main route between Ambleside and Grasmere (the modern road only dates from 1770).
- Sweet ChestnutAn ancient sweet chestnut in the grounds of Rydal Hall is estimated to be over 500 years old, and probably planted before the current hall was built in 1600.
- The Battle of Dunmail RaiseAccording to legend, a battle took place here in AD 945 between King Dunmail of Cumberland and a combined force of Anglo-Saxons and Scots.
- Dora's FieldDora’s Field was bought by William Wordsworth as a plot of land to build a house on when he was threatened with eviction from Rydal Mount.
- Rydal CaveThe cave, situated above Rydal Water, is a man made cavern that served as a slate quarry supplying excellent quality slate to the local villages, more than two hundred years ago. These days visitors can walk into the gaping mouth of the cave and explore the awesome mini ampitheatre complete with jagged rocks and a flooded pool inhabited by small fish and insects.
Highlights
Enjoy live classical musical played by a harp quartet at Allan Bank. Informal performances will…
Enjoy a traditional afternoon at Allan Bank singing carols around the Christmas tree with local…
Don your Christmas jumpers and hats for professional dog photographer, Shaun Barr, to capture a…
Tweedies Bar & Lodge with 2 restaurants and public bar serving guest ales, world beers, excellent…
Stove Bar and Restaurant offers something for everyone all day and evening merging great indoor and…
Make yourself comfortable in the former home of National Trust Founder, Canon Rawnsley. Only…
Explore the wonders of the winter night sky. Our astronomy experts will take you on a whistle stop…
A 6 day all inclusive retreat to train you to become a massage therapist. Includes accredited…
Join us for a family-friendly evening learning about the universe. Explore the wonders of the…
Warm and welcoming Bed & Breakfast accommodation in the heart of Grasmere Village.
What was Christmas like when the Wordsworths lived at Dove Cottage 200 years ago? Have a go at some…
Tweedies Bar & Lodge with 2 restaurants and public bar serving guest ales, world beers, excellent…
The Britannia is a traditional 500-year-old Lakeland Inn nestling in the village of Elterwater and…
Buses to and through Grasmere: 555 Lancaster - Kendal - Windermere - Ambleside - Grasmere -…
This is a three day training event starting from Butarlyp Youth Hostel Grasmere, and partly on the…
This independent, hostel is perfectly situated in the picturesque village of Elterwater, at the…
A 6 day professional massage therapy course at a Lake District retreat venue with meals and…
Rydal Cave is a large cavern on the north side of Loughrigg Fell, above Rydal Water. This famous…
This church is well known because of its associations with the great Romantic poet William…
The Langdale Hotel & Spa in the heart of the Lake District, is the perfect place for getting away…
Our 2 luxurious Micro Lodge Pods have been hand built for couples wanting a romantic retreat or a…
Rydal Water is one of the smallest lakes and is very popular partly because of its Wordsworth…
Whatever the reason for your visit and whatever the weather outside, you can expect to sleep…
Brimstone Spa, is exclusively for residents of the Langdale Hotel, Langdale Lodges and Brimstone…
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Number of results: 48
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Address
Allan Bank, National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
01539 435143Grasmere
Enjoy live classical musical played by a harp quartet at Allan Bank. Informal performances will take place in the Wordsworth Study at various points across the day starting from 11am.
Included with admission to the house. Free for National Trust…
Address
Allan Bank, National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
01539435143Grasmere
Enjoy a traditional afternoon at Allan Bank singing carols around the Christmas tree with local choir Grasmere Glee. Anyone can join in - the more the merrier!
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue. Free entry for…
Address
Allan Bank, National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
01539435143Grasmere
Don your Christmas jumpers and hats for professional dog photographer, Shaun Barr, to capture a free image of you and your dog to share with friends and family.
Book your free 15 minute slot online. Standard house admission applies, free for…
Address
Tweedies Bar & Lodge, Red Bank Rd, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SWTelephone
015394 35300Grasmere
Tweedies Bar & Lodge with 2 restaurants and public bar serving guest ales, world beers, excellent selection of wines. Set in 3 acres of mature grounds. Newly refurbished throughout.
Address
Stove Restaurant & Bar, Great Langdale, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9JDTelephone
015394 38080Ambleside
Stove Bar and Restaurant offers something for everyone all day and evening merging great indoor and outdoor spaces. Modern and traditional dishes featuring seasonal and the finest local produce are created by Scott and his team, you are able to get…
Address
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
015394 35143Grasmere
Make yourself comfortable in the former home of National Trust Founder, Canon Rawnsley. Only partially restored and decorated, this isn’t a typical National Trust experience.
Tourism For All
Address
Allan Bank, National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
01539 732567Grasmere
Explore the wonders of the winter night sky. Our astronomy experts will take you on a whistle stop tour of the universe on the big screen. You'll learn about stars, planets and galaxies and our place in the universe.
Then, weather permitting, we…
Address
Nab Cottage, South Lakes, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9SDTelephone
08000862644Rydal, Ambleside
A 6 day all inclusive retreat to train you to become a massage therapist. Includes accredited qualification course, accommodation, meals, yoga and hot tub. Located at the beautiful, historic Nab Cottage by Rydal Water lake.
Address
Allan Bank, National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QBTelephone
01539 732567Grasmere
Join us for a family-friendly evening learning about the universe. Explore the wonders of the winter night sky. Our astronomy experts will take you on a whistle stop tour of the universe on the big screen. You will learn some fun facts about stars,…
Address
Beck Allans Guest House, College St, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SZTelephone
015394 35563Grasmere
Warm and welcoming Bed & Breakfast accommodation in the heart of Grasmere Village.
Tourism For All
Address
Wordsworth Grasmere, Town End, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SHTelephone
01539435544Grasmere
What was Christmas like when the Wordsworths lived at Dove Cottage 200 years ago? Have a go at some Georgian Christmas crafts, including making pomanders and wreaths.
Address
Tweedies Bar & Lodge, Red Bank Rd, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SWTelephone
015394 35300Grasmere
Tweedies Bar & Lodge with 2 restaurants and public bar serving guest ales, world beers, excellent selection of wines. Set in 3 acres of mature grounds. Newly refurbished throughout.
Tourism For All
Address
The Britannia Inn, Main Street, Elterwater, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9HPTelephone
015394 37210Elterwater, Ambleside
The Britannia is a traditional 500-year-old Lakeland Inn nestling in the village of Elterwater and the fells of the Langdale Valley. Real ales, traditional food and real log fires.
Tourism For All
Cumbria
Buses to and through Grasmere:
555 Lancaster - Kendal - Windermere - Ambleside - Grasmere - Keswick - Carlisle.
599 Kendal - Windermere - Ambleside - Grasmere - Lakeside (summer). Open top service during good weather.
599 Kendal - Windermere -…Address
YHA Grasmere Butharlyp Howe, Easedale Rd, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9QGTelephone
07967 630956Grasmere
This is a three day training event starting from Butarlyp Youth Hostel Grasmere, and partly on the fells including a high-level overnight camp. Participants will be guided and supported by a qualified and expert mountain leader.
Address
Elterwater Hostel, Elterwater, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9HXTelephone
015394 37245Ambleside
This independent, hostel is perfectly situated in the picturesque village of Elterwater, at the heart of the Langdale Valley in the English Lake District.
Tourism For All
Address
Nab Cottage, Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9SDTelephone
0800 086 2644Ambleside
A 6 day professional massage therapy course at a Lake District retreat venue with meals and accommodation included. Become qualified as a massage therapist and have a holiday in one!
Tourism For All
Address
Rydal, AMBLESIDE, Cumbria, LA22 9SDAMBLESIDE
Rydal Cave is a large cavern on the north side of Loughrigg Fell, above Rydal Water. This famous lakeland beauty spot is actually man-made, as a result of slate quarrying.
Address
Grasmere, AMBLESIDE, Cumbria, LA22 9SWAMBLESIDE
This church is well known because of its associations with the great Romantic poet William Wordsworth, who lived in nearby Dove Cottage and is buried in the churchyard.
Address
Langdale Hotel & Spa, The Langdale Estate, Great Langdale, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9JDTelephone
01539438014Great Langdale, Ambleside
The Langdale Hotel & Spa in the heart of the Lake District, is the perfect place for getting away from it all.
Tourism For All
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