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WINTER IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Lakes
magazine
015394 88855 | | L A K E LOV E R S .CO.U K
The Grange - Windermere
Langdales in winter
2
Lexington nHouse - Bowness Tree on a hill - Ben Bush
Helvellyn
Contents Thank you
4 Winter Solstice Welcome to our second edition of Lakes Magazine. Winter in the Lake
District is such an extraordinary season and the stunning vistas become
5 Cultural Concierge even more awe-inspiring. Explore hidden gems, plan your winter walks
and discover the dark skies of the Lake District.
6 Michelin Restaurants
10 Large Properties
With thanks to:
12 5 Hidden Gems
Jeanette Edgar Ben Bush
14 Dark Skies Cultural Concierge benbush.photos
16 Rural Cottages Shaun Derby
shaunderbyphotography.com
18 Ben Bush Q&A
20 Stunning Views
Front cover image Shaun Derby Photography.
24 Cottages with Stunning Views Back cover image Ben Bush.
26 Winter Walks
28 Cottages near Winter Walks Proud to be a member of
Cumbria Tourism
30 Dog Friendly Cottages
31 Ask the Expert Browse our Cottages here
3
Winter Solstice
After the showmanship of autumn, with all that colour and verve, this season enters a new personality, Jack
Frost, or Old Man of Winter. Anyone can enjoy the Lakes in summer, but what about ‘the other Lake District’?
From early December, patterns of frosty snowflakes treasures collected over the summer. Winter is a time for
appear on windows, ice sculptures drip down from family, for love and for peace. And nowhere else is this
becks, tarns and through gills and we realise trees have more so than in the Lake District.
finally relinquished their last leaves, leaving a slightly You may notice that we have used words like beck, fell
daunting silhouette of arms wide-open branches against and gill, rather than river, stream and gorge. Beck and gill,
enormous dark skies. Old Man of Winter, we admit, is along with fell, come from our Viking ancestors and they
deliciously menacing. are words still used today her, as the ancient heritage of
Yet winter is the time of coming together. It is the season the Lake District lives on. In fact, the Lake District has one
of celebration and feasting. We are safe inside, with the of the highest concentrations of Scandinavian influence
fire crackling and the guilt of the gym a million miles away. and over the winter months, this history comes alive
Just as the hedgehogs, foxes and badgers of the Lake with festivals, Christmas markets, winter droving, lantern
District lowlands scurry themselves away, we too focus parades and Dickensian performances. The Cumbrian
our attention on what’s important - feasting on the version of hygge.
4
Ennerdale Water
Yet, here in Winter, the Lake District offers another side, with a hunger for winter wanderlust.
one for those ready to embrace Old Man Winter and It is a time of muted silence, except for the warm gaggle
head outdoors, under the Lake District’s famous huge of joy from your select party of winter ramblers. Winter
dark, winter skies. in the Lakes is perfect for those who love the stillness of
A blanket of snow on the ground muffles any sounds, landscapes, the snow-brightness and wintry skies, which
with the lone figures of hardy Herdwick sheep and silent bring its own warm glow.
wandering deer or scampering red squirrels, the only tell- As we head into the Winter Solstice, we embrace some
tale tracks of life on the quiet fells. ‘The other Lake District’ of the darkest skies in England. For this single moment
is for folk who just want to head outdoors regardless of a year, the sun appears to stand still and the days are
the weather and light. noticeably shorter. Here in the Lakes, we celebrate the
And if you find yourself atop our very own Old Man longer nights – a chance for cosy indulgence, as we head
Winter, the Old Man of Coniston, or alongside the Jack outside to take in the breath-taking night-sky and star
Frost falls of Stanley Ghyll and you chance upon some displays.
other walkers, you might not stop to chin wag. But Some of our favourite things are the walk back from a
instead, nod your head and carry on at pace - as the cosy pub by torchlight, those early dog walks with the
cold weather requires - both parties understanding that clearness of the frost and pink skies, amazing temperature
you’ve discovered ‘the other Lake District’. This is The inversions above the water; and of course, the delicious
Lake District. Anyone can love the Lakes in summer, just choice of comfort food and mulled wine or cider or
like fair-weather football fans, but the winter Lake District perhaps a craft ale, or hot chocolate.
is for those with a deeper love of this wild landscape and
for being outside, regardless of the light! It is for those
5
Things to do
Cultural Concierge
Our #CulturalConcierge knows all about the best & most inspiring arts, performance, literature & festivals here in the RUUP by Birgit Õigus - Grizedale Forest
beautiful Lake District. We’ve asked her to curate ideas for you to explore in these stunning World Heritage landscapes.
The #CulturalConcierge has spent her career promoting You’ll have plenty of room with over 4000 hectares of
Cumbria as a leading rural cultural destination. She forest and woodlands to explore and you can discover
knows all about our quirky and interesting places and will contemporary art sculptures by as the likes of Andy
be your guide as we discover some quieter, less-visited Goldsworthy and David Nash.
hidden gems.
‘There are lots to choose from, but if you’re stuck for
‘Thinking of a winter break in the Lake District? Just wrap time on a short winter’s day, I’d make a beeline for RUUP
up warm and head outside for the sights, smells and by Birgit Õigus - a co-commission between Forestry
sounds of winter in the beautiful Grizedale Forest.’ Commission England and Lakes Alive Festival. It’s a
crazy 3 large wooden megaphone-like structure, sited
‘I recommend that you combine your walk with some just above the Silurian way on the path towards Carron
contemporary art and a little forest bathing! The ancient Crag summit. (you can grab directions at the Visitor
Japanese practice of relaxation; know in Japan as shinrin Centre) It’s designed to amplify the sounds of the forest,
yoku is a simplistic way of calm and quiet amongst the so you can sit or stand inside them and do your forest
trees, observing nature (and in this case, the sculpture) bathing undercover!’
around you whilst breathing deeply can help you to de-
stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.’
6
The Foodie:
Seven Michelin Starred Restaurants
It’s not just the twinkling dark skies that are lighting up the Lake District this winter - this year three Lakes restaurants
gained Michelin star status to bring the total to a glowing seven and includes the ‘number one restaurant in the UK’.
Groundbreaking, creative and extraordinary - come and taste the stars.
L’enclume, Cartmel, £59-155 one of the most memorable dining
and Henrock, Linthwaite experiences in the UK.
The only restaurant in the Lake
For a taste of Cumbria, also visit
District to hold two Michelin stars as
Henrock - Rogan’s latest culinary
well as being awarded the accolade
venture, opened just this summer so
of ‘number one restaurant in the UK’,
no stars ... yet. Henrock is centrally
by The Good Food Guide 2020.
located in Bowness-on-Windermere
Excellent is an understatement for the
at Linthwaite House and follows the
endless tasting plates that come out
same passion for local produce and
of this experimental kitchen, under
foraging as l’Enclume, with the menu
the watchful eye of Simon Rogan.
designed around ingredients from
There’s no limit to the wizardry
Our Farm. However, as this new
delivered by the most famous
eatery chases the stars, expect a
development kitchen in the Lake
global twist, with creative techniques
District, all from simple ingredients
picked up from around the world.
grown in their local Our Farm or
This is one to visit before anyone
foraged from Lakeland countryside.
else. You heard it from us first.
The place to treat a loved one with
7
Allium, Askham Hall, Penrith
£55-£70
Teetering on the very tip of the Lake District border, and has a wealth of local ingredients as well as more
close to Pooley Bridge and Ullswater, this new than 800 years of family history at its fingertips. Dining
addition to the Michelin one star award guide is part here is an elegant affair, with a paired-back menu
of the Lowther Estate. Once owned by the infamous offering refined simplicity and sitting comfortably
Yellow Earl, Allium is located in this 11 century castle within the chic country-style dining room.
Rogan & Co, Cartmel
£29-45
Just down the road in Cartmel from L’enclume, a more
casual approach to excellent food and dining gives this
Rogan pub a bright one star Michelin status. Expect a
more traditional menu that suits the gastro pub style of
Rogan & Co, where diners choose from starters, mains
and desserts as they cosy up next to an open fire. But
whilst you can order meals that deliver ‘familiar’ tastes
such as duck, fish, chicken or lentils and artichoke perhaps
as a vegetarian option, this is where the comparison to
a “good gastro pub” ends. The plates are pretty as can
be, adorned with edible flowers and with ingredients
stripped back to their core elements. This is a great
introduction to newbies to Michelin dining.
8
The Old Stamp House, Ambleside
£29-£70
Arrive on foot at The Old Stamp House, just as William decor. This is the place to feel like one of the locals and
Wordsworth would have done back in the 19th century enjoy a hidden gem. Owned and run by the Lake District
when he worked in this building as ‘postmaster and born Blackburn brothers, the menus are inspired by the
distributor of stamps’. This year The Old Stamp House, Lake District landscape, people and history, with cheese
which opened in 2014, was awarded its very own stamp boards that look like the iconic Landgale Pikes and soups
of approval, a shiny one star from the coveted Michelin that are a celebration of the deep pools of the region’s
Guide. The dining rooms, spread over two floors, are famous lakes.
intimate, with low ceilings and rustic, white-washed wall
The Forest Side, Grasmere
£40-105
It took this kitchen only eight-months from opening to
receive its first Michelin star. Step inside this restored
Victorian mansion house and instantly feel at home.
The ambience of the dining room is a perfect blend
of gentlemen’s retreat and Scandi forest calm. This
restaurant is deeply rooted in its forest location and the
art of foraging. The likes of Critter Fritter, grey squirrel
wrapped in confit breadcrumbs and served with a
Douglas Fir mayonnaise, is the ordre du jour. Natural
wood features throughout, as serving platters as well as
the focal point in the centre of the dining room, where
you find the exposed roots of a huge upturned tree
supporting a glass tabletop. There’s flexibility in dining
Cottage in the Wood, Whinlatter options with the six course La’l ‘Un and ten course Grand
£30-£70 ‘Un - again another homage to Forest Side’s Cumbrian
The dream of a Michelin star arrived for the Cottage roots.
in the Wood restaurant this summer. Tucked away
in the mountain forest of Whinlatter, in the eastern
corner of the Lake District, this stylish dining room is
certainly worth the detour. Cottage in the Wood is a
boutique restaurant styled with subtle mid-century
modern finesse and a hint of So Ho House. King
Oyster Mushrooms, Coco Beans and Vermouth
Cream, the Cottage in the Wood is the place to get
carried away with the drama of excellent food and
even better company. This is a young and trendy
Michelin experience and their private dining space
is ideal for getting your friends together.
HRiSHi,Bowness-on-Windermere
£70-90
It’s the Lake District’s rich spice trade heritage that gives
this one star Michelin restaurant a global glow. The current
menu is inspired by a recent sourcing trip to China, under
the watchful eye of head chef Hrishikesh Desai where
classic Lake District flavours are combined with classic
Asian techniques. Expect brightly decorated decor that
doesn’t take itself too seriously. This humour continues
on into the brightly coloured cuisine, which delivers an
instant smile. Extraordinary textures and tastes, this is
modern British cuisine with a twist and the perfect place
for a celebration.
9
Lakelovers
Large Properties
Bring all the family and experience spacious and expertly finished
décor from start to finish.
Endymion House
6 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms
Endymion House is a rare find amongst Lakeland holiday properties and is without doubt one of the
most elegant period properties available in the area. A rare example of the Art Deco design of the 1930’s
Endymion House is still offering a real wow factor today. With stunning views from all the principal rooms,
the position is one of the most beautiful in the Lake District and now having been lovingly restored by
the current owners it is a great choice for special occasions and extended family holidays offering superb
accommodation in breathtaking surroundings.
From £1995 for 7 nights
10Left images : Waternook | Right Images : Bristowe Hill
Waternook Bristowe Hill
6 Bedrooms | 7 Bathrooms 8 Bedrooms | 7 Bathrooms
Five star opulence on Ullswater, Waternook is quite Presented with 8 bedrooms, plenty of social space, an
simply outstanding and luxurious in every way, arguably elegant dining room with adjacent kitchen, orangery
the most prestigious self-catering experience in the with dining table and breakfast kitchen, Bristowe Hill,
Lake District or possibly the British Isles. This eclectic offers the finest of holiday experiences for special family
detached 17th century Lakeland residence occupies celebrations whilst offering easy access to the amazing
a sublime, secluded setting within 26 acres of private countryside of the north Lake District and walking
grounds with 1/2 mile of lake shoreline, commanding distance of the bars, shops, restaurants and award
simply breath-taking uninterrupted panoramic views as winning market in the centre of the town.
far as the eye can see.
From £6480 for 7 nights From £4900 for 7 nights
11Discover 5 Hidden Gems this Winter
Bottom right : Approach to Claife Viewing Station
|
Top right : Helvellyn
West Coast Photo Exhibition, Joshua Cooper and Martin Parr, runs just £30. Being situated near the top
Barrow-in-Furness over Christmas and into the New of one of England’s highest peaks,
Year, closing on 15 January 2020. make sure you’re well-equipped
A visit to the new West Coast Photo As well as stunning work by local for a mountain environment and fit
Exhibition at the impressive Dock artists, this exhibition has bagged enough to make the steep climb.
Museum is an absolute must and some highly coveted work too,
one that few people may know including images from the Sankey If you’re planning a visit to the Lake
about, affording you massive Family Photographic Collection from District this winter, don’t forget to
bragging rights. Inspired by the between 1890 and 1960. bring your skiing gear and head to
identity and landscape of the unique the slopes.
West Coast of Cumbria, this brand- Lake District Ski club
new exhibition is part of an annual Claife Viewing Station,
celebration of life on the West Coast, The Lake District has its very own Windermere
from the early 20th century to the Ski Club, founded in 1963, the club
present day. operates a 360-metre button tow on Claife Viewing Station was built in
Raise, next to Helvellyn. An hour’s the 1790s as a viewpoint and was
The photography exhibition opened walk from the mines at Glenridding, the place to go on Windermere Lake
on 26 October 2019, offering the Raise is positioned for the best snow in the Victorian era. The Station had
first-ever collection of lens work in the Lakes and has nine ungroomed different tints of glass in each room
celebrating Cumbria’s West Coast. pistes, the longest measuring almost – yellow for summer, orange for
The coveted exhibition, that hosts a mile. autumn, light green for spring and
award-winning artists like Thomas You can ski for a day as a guest for light blue for winter. The National
12Trust have replicated these views paddle (or swim) on the shores of of life, relocating beside the River
from the platform with coloured Derwentwater, before meeting the Kent at Staveley.
glass to give you an idea today of whole herd to take part in feeding
how the Victorians saw everything. time. You’ll get to meet over 80 fluffy The Brewery has left its second hand
You can access it from the Bowness residents, all with their own unique 7 barrel kit behind, and now boasts
Ferry, or set out on a 4mile linear walk style and personality. a beautiful beer hall and 20 barrel
from Wray Castle – a great route for brewhouse, producing 7,700 barrels
bikes or walking. There’s a lovely The new Lingholm Kitchen and shop of beer (1.1 million litres) per year at
Courtyard Café which is dog friendly, looks down onto an octagonal walled full capacity! So, there’s plenty of
and serves snacks and drinks. garden built in a Victorian style. The beer to keep your glass full.
Kitchen offers a variety of locally
Alpacaly Ever After, Keswick sourced meals, coffee, teas and There is always plenty of festive
homebaked treats. Shop alpacaly cheer, with The Curragh Sons playing
Take a guided alpaca walk through gifts and knits in the gorgeous gift their unique blend of Irish music or
the private grounds of the Lingholm shop for a memento of your day. pull on your dancing shoes and get
Estate – Keswick, where another ready to celebrate the New Year with
favourite author of ours, Beatrix Hawkshead Brewery, Staveley Jim Bean.
Potter, spent many of her summer
holidays. Hawkshead Brewery started life in
2002 as a small barn on the outskirts
You’ll get to know your alpacas of the village of Hawkshead. And in
close up as you take them for a 2006, the brewery saw a new lease
13Dark Skies
Looking for peace and quiet and time
away from the crowds, you walk up
to Blea Tarn on a clear, dark night.
Gazing up at the enormous dark
Lake District sky and you realise that
actually we are not alone. There can
be as many as 2000 stars clustered all
around you in the Lakes, compared
with a dozen or so seen by the naked
eye from a London location.
14
Orion Fleetwith ButtermereRare Stars
Orion is perhaps the most well-known winter star Blea, Andromeda, Langdale
pattern, but the Lake District gives us the rarest
of opportunity to see some of the lesser-known
celestial delights. There’s climbing a mountain to
reach England’s rooftop to sit amongst the stars and
capture the rarest of photos - a snap of our sister
galaxy, Andromeda.
Deep within Grizedale Forest, you are well
protected from light pollution giving a once-in-a-
lifetime opportunity to witness all sorts of heavenly
sights, such as Mercury in transit or Jupiter’s moons
and even the famous Aurora. Or, there’s spotting
the Winter Hexagon or Polaris from the otherworldly
Night photography advice from
location of Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the
Ben Bush
earliest in Britain and is thought to be an ancient
astronomical observatory. There are lots of different • Night photography is possible even with
ways to plan a holiday around stargazing. some very basic kit.
• An entry level DSLR is a must, as is a tripod
to get started.
Buttermere Stars • A good photo guide to decide on some
locations as well as the basics of being out
at night and operating your camera in the
dark!
• Local knowledge to negotiate the weather
and capture the best locations and sights.
• YouTube is a great resource and a brilliant
learning tool to learn long exposure
photography.
• Continually change your settings and try
different compositions and locations.
• Then when the camera function becomes
easier, put your creative brain to thinking
about different compositions.
• One of the main things though, is just to get
Losing the Dark
out there. Keep trying and soon enough the
Here in the UK, we have some of the largest results will show and you’ll get shot after
‘dark sky reserves’ in Europe. Hopefully soon shot. The sky is literally the limit!
to be added to the list of four official UK dark
sky reserves is the Lake District. Awarded by
the International Dark Sky Association, this
accolade is no easy feat especially with light Castlerigg January Snow
pollution increasing, rising by 2% every year for
the last four years, sadly.
The protection of rural areas with ‘dark sky
status’ preserves mankind’s oldest natural
wonder that is the starry night sky - a natural
phenomenon that 85% of the UK may no longer
see at home. It’s not just humans that miss out -
50% of animals in the UK are nocturnal, relying
on the night sky for their feeding and breeding
patterns.
15Lakelovers
Rural Cottages
Stargaze from these wonderfully located properties.
Tall Trees
3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
Step inside and take pleasure in the outstanding contemporary features echoed
throughout, a secluded country Lake District atmosphere blends effortlessly with
21st century life, where the infinity glazed accommodation really does bring the
outside in. Walk out through full length bi-folding doors onto the substantial terraced
balcony or the large slate patio, here you can’t help but fall in love with the setting.
From £795 for 7 nights
16Left images : Deerwood at Applethwaite Hall | Right Images : Thyme Out
Deer Wood at Applethwaite Hall Thyme Out
2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms 2 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
Set just a mile from the centre of Windermere town, Thyme Out is quite simply a gorgeous contemporary
Deer Wood forms part of the prestigious Applethwaite Lakeland cottage occupying a picture postcard perfect
Hall. As well as enjoying Deer Wood’s private outside setting with breathtaking views in every direction.
seating areas, guests are afforded full access to Outside the private and pretty garden provides the ideal
Applethwaite Hall’s beautifully manicured lawns, home spot for morning coffee, a glass or two before dinner or
to a host of wildlife including a family of deer, squirrels an evening of stargazing.
and a variety of native birds.
From £435 for 7 nights From £475 for 7 nights
17Orion over Castlerigg
Ben Bush
Astro Photographer
Should we have heard of you? I love the Lake District in any weather it’s incredibly
beautiful and inspiring at every turn.
I’m a Lake District based Astro/Landscape photographer,
and I run workshops around the Lakes, Scotland, and I trained as an aircraft engineer, living the highlife in
Wales. Brighton for a few years, then came back to my native
Lake District to live the quiet life and trained to be a tree
I’ve been lucky enough to have several exhibitions surgeon. A few years climbing trees and playing with
including a major two-month solo exhibition at the chainsaws, but photography was always close to my
fantastic Gaddum Gallery in The Lake District Visitor heart and my camera always close at hand.
centre, Brockhole.
As time moved on my photography slowly overtook tree
I was very proud to be named as the winner of the People surgery and around three years ago it became my main
& Space category of Astro Photographer of the year, the job. How lucky am I!
biggest Astro competition in the world. I was one of 8 We don’t have kids (except for the dogs!), so I can be
winners from nearly 5000 entries from 90 countries and out and about, and travel to some amazing places with
now have work published and on display in the National my work.. My tuition and workshops also mean I get to
Maritime Museum, Greenwich. As a result of this award, meet interesting people who also have that passion for
I’m heading off soon to Africa, Iceland and the Azores. photography.
2020 is looking to be an amazing year with lots of travel
How did you start shooting the Night Sky?
and photographic opportunities.
A few years ago, I was living in the very heart of the Lake
Tell me a bit about you and your life District - a great place to be, but the hills were quite busy
and bustling with people visiting to see the beauty for
I love Cumbria and feel blessed to have been born and themselves. I wanted to experience it all at a quieter time
brought up here. I live in the Northern Lake District, with and slower pace. So I started exploring the hills and lakes
my partner and soon to be wife Carlie-Rose and our 4 at night. This is when the Lake District completely changes
dogs Floyd, Loki, Luna and Red. I love heading into the and becomes almost other worldly, with completely new
hills exploring and taking photographs along the way. and interesting sights to see and experience. Even the
18most famous views look completely different at night with Why Cumbria?
a sky full of stars.
I’ve explored the UK extensively and we are so lucky to
One night I was out in the beautiful Langdale valley at live in such a beautiful country. We’re tucked away in
Blea Tarn: a favourite place to visit in the day, and a truly the North West and in my humble opinion it’s the jewel
stunning and ethereal place to be at night. It was a cold in the crown. In the north we have the stunning Solway
one, frost covered the grass and a slight sheen of ice Firth with some of the best beaches to walk your dog
was visible on the tarn. I was taking panoramas of Blea and where I’ve seen the best sunsets of my life, then
with the Langdale Pikes in the background covered with southwards towards majestic and awe inspiring Wasdale.
snow and stars reflected through the thin ice on the In the middle lies the utterly beautiful Lake District. From
tarn. I noticed something that looked like a galaxy in beaches, to lakes, mountains, streams and hidden
the top corner of my shot when I got home and loaded valleys, it’s a truly beautiful part of the world.
it onto the computer. That was a defining moment for
me and literally from the second I saw our sister Galaxy What would people experience if they went on
Andromeda, I was completely hooked. Everything I do one of your workshops?
and am photography-wise comes from that one night
We’ll spend time visiting amazing locations, sunrises
-time shot of beautiful Blea Tarn.
and sunsets, landscapes and star-filled skies. We’d
then cherry-pick the best locations, and I’ll guide you as
someone who has literally spent their life looking at the
Bottom image : Orion Rising
Lakes through a viewfinder.
Time then to explore the world of post processing,
editing and getting the best out of your images. It’s a
complete immersion in photography for photographers
of all abilities.
You get to experience the wonder and awe of the heavens
while capturing the stunning landscape all around you.
It’s a wonderful experience, being out and about in this
glorious place, finishing up with amazing photos you’ve
taken, and some memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll
also meet some great people, have good fun and the
|
craic.
Middle image : Crummock Arch
What are you up to this coming year?
This coming year is a busy one for me. I’ll have been in
London selling my prints on the Southbank throughout
December, bringing a bit of Cumbria to the big City.
January it’s Iceland - visiting locations and taking
photographs for my workshops there.
February & March I’ll be on Skye running two 5-day
workshops, then I’m off to the Outer Hebrides again to
scout locations for further workshops.
Back to the Lakes for a week or two then I’m off to Africa
|
to spend a month in Botswana taking Milky Way and astro
To p i m a g e : S k i d d a w S t a r s
photos as well as going on safari. Back to the Lake District
briefly then I’m off to the Azores, again for some Milky
Way photography and to scout workshop locations.
Home again (phew!) to sort tuition and stalls in and
around the Lake District summer festivals.
September is very special as I will be marrying the love of
my life, with just us, a couple of witnesses and our dogs
on a Scottish beach before running off to Greece for a
honeymoon (& take some photos!).
19The Lake District’s
MOST STUNNING VIEWS
Views from deep and mysterious lakes below sea level, to
panoramas that stretch as far as Scotland, Wales and over 14
English counties in one vista, there are truly extraordinary sights not
to be missed in the Lake District.
20Crinkle Crags - Langdale 21
Wastwater Wastwater - Seascale
Seascale
The view across the waters of Wastwater and up to
Wasdale Head holds the title as Britain’s Favourite View,
beating off competition from the likes of Bamburgh
Castle in Northumberland and The Mountains of Mourne
in Co Down, Northern Ireland.
There is much that makes Wastwater Britain’s favourite
and most awe-inspiring view. Wastwater lies in the most
remote and untouched part of the Lake District and looks
exactly as it did centuries ago. The Lake is surrounded by
ominous mountains, including England’s largest, Scafell
Pike. On the south eastern flank of Wastwater are screes
that rise 2000 ft from the lake and are snow-capped in
winter, and give an ‘otherworldly’ look to this view.
Although it is only 3 miles in length, Wastwater is England’s
deepest lake and whilst it sits alongside England’s tallest
peak, it reaches below sea level meaning it has little
oxygen and plant life. This gives rise to a spectacular dark
water sat against the rugged mountain backdrop. A view
like this is not easily forgotten and certainly one to talk
about back at home.
Wastwater - Seascale
Surprise View
Keswick
As the name suggests, this is one of the most
surprising views in the Lake District. Surprising
because it is so well hidden, tucked off the very
narrow road to the hamlet of Watendlath.
There is no hint of this view at all until you come to
a gap in the trees and find yourself standing on the
very edge of a rocky outcrop, looking down onto
Derwentwater and across to Keswick. Finding
yourself suddenly on this exposed and elevated
view, which does have a sharp and unprotected
Surprise View - Keswick drop, adds to the wonder that this view delivers.
22Crinkle Crags
Langdale
Conquer and stand on the rugged jumble of
shattered rocks that make up the Crinkle Crag ridge
in the Langdale Pikes. From here you can drink in
the view of the dramatic Langdale valley below and
you can’t help but feel the power that shaped this
landscape millions of years ago.
Lying only 2-miles outside of the bustling town of
Ambleside is the mouth of the Langdale valley. There
are only two hamlets found in this rather remote
valley, Elterwater and Chapel Stile yet the valley is
brimming with hospitality.
Crinkle Crags - Langdale
Gummer’s How - Windermere
Black Combe
Millom
Wordsworth described the view from the
top of Black Combe as “the amplest range of
unobstructed prospect may be seen that British
ground commands”. At 1,790ft tall, the fell of
Black Combe lies in the south-west corner of the
Lake District, only 4-miles from the Irish sea.
On a clear day, views from the summit of Black
Combe stretch to include Scotland, Wales, the Isle
of Man and 14 counties in England. It is this fell’s
isolated location, to the south-west of the main
central Lakeland fells, that awards it these unique
Gummer’s How panoramic views. Indeed, the nearest peak of
Windermere similar height is 10 miles away.
This low lying fell sits on the south east of Lake
Windermere and gives enviable views of the whole
length of Lake Windermere for very little effort; west to
the Langdale Pikes and Coniston Fells; to the east you
can see as far as the north Pennines; and to the south the
boats bobbing at Newby Bridge and on to Morecambe
Bay and beyond.
Take the well-managed footpath to Gummer’s How
and quickly gain height. As you do so, this ‘miniature
mountain’ delivers all that you would want from a fell
walk, including scrambles, and steep inclines, but within
a short 1.5-mile linear walk. As you quickly ascend, don’t
forget to stop to admire the spectacular views as they
suddenly open out before you.
If it is an evening walk with sunset view or a first fell,
offering snap-worthy summit views, then the petite
Gummer’s How fell delivers a vista way beyond its 118m
of climbing. Black Combe - Millom
23Lakelovers
Cottages with Stunning Views
Enjoy the beauty of the Lake District from your holiday cottage.
Top left : Flaska House | Bottom left : One the Howe | Right : Larna Place
Flaska House One the Howe Larna Place
4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom
Nestled in beautiful countryside Set in an elevated position, just One of six properties that make up
with panoramic views of Blencathra, outside the popular market town superb Lesketh How, development,
Flaska House is a lovingly restored of Keswick, One The Howe is a Larna Place offers superb, architect-
farmhouse that benefits from a generously proportioned ground designed accommodation that
quiet location, offering a homely floor apartment, that benefits from offers high quality, contemporary
atmosphere ideal for friends and beautiful views to the western retreat with lovely views across the
family. fells and offers high quality valley and just a few minutes’ walk
accommodation in a stunning from the centre of Ambleside.
location.
From £775 for 7 nights From £495 for 7 nights From £495 for 7 nights
24Pennys Cottage
2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom
Pennys Cottage is believed to date from the 17th
Century and was once a former cow shed converted
to a residence in the 19th Century. It is now a charming
mid-terrace traditional cottage with many original
features, enjoying beautiful and picturesque views
across the Troutbeck valley down to the church
surrounded by fields, trees and up towards the
Garburn Pass, Ill Bell and the High Street ridge.
From £395 for 7 nights
25Lake District
Winter Walks
Explore some of the best winter walks in the Lake District
Left : Hodge Close Quarry | Top Rigth: Gowbarrow Trail | Bottom Rigth: Easdale Tarn
The Lake District is 2,362 square kilometres of natural bliss. Aira Force and Gowbarrow Trail, Penrith
Experience the drama of snow-capped mountains, icicle
dripping waterfalls and frozen tarns. Enjoy the warmth Experience Aira Force at its best, rainy days offer the
of rural communities, a traditional countryside pub with chance to see the falls in full force, as rainwater runs from
good food, beer and an open fire. the fells into Aira Beck. Head out on a sunny morning and
make sure to look out for rainbows that appear when the
Here we’ve picked some of our favourite walks so you can conditions are just right. Pass through the woodland then
plan your winter break to the Lake District. emerge from the confines of the gorge to enjoy expansive
views over Ullswater from the summit of Gowbarrow.
Hodge Close Walk, Little Langdale Easdale Tarn, Grasmere
This circular, low-level walk will provide you with stunning One of the Lake District’s more famous tarns, the riverside
views of the Langdale Pikes and surrounding fells, along walk up to the tarn is as good as the tarn itself. You
with an insight into the historical industrial past of the pass the white cascades of Sour Milk falls, which are
area. You will pass Atkinson Coppice, a network of old spectacular on a winter’s day and there are lots of places
slate quarries which sprawl across the side of the fell. to stop and enjoy the view. It is a classic Lake District rocky
Pass over Slater Bridge, a spectacular example of a slate- path underfoot at approximately 5 miles, all the family will
constructed packhorse bridge built between 1650 and enjoy this walk that the Wordsworth family loved.
1750. This walk takes you past the Three Shires Inn, a
typical Lakeland Inn providing a warm welcome and a
selection of local ales.
26Aira Force
Lakelovers
Cottages near Winter Walks
Walk straight from the door of these wonderfully located properties.
Left images : Underhowe | Right Images : Grass Ings
Underhowe Grass Ings
4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
Underhowe is an exceptional property, designed and At the very heart of the Lake District lie the spectacular
presented to the highest standard and located in one Langdale Valleys; Great Langdale and Little Langdale.
of the prettiest areas of the Lake District. The property is In this stunning landscape of high mountains, rolling
literally a few hundred yards from the centre of Grasmere meadows, cascading waterfalls and babbling becks,
with access to all of the excellent pubs, restaurants and Grass Ings stands in a prominent position overlooking
coffee shops as well as having Silver Howe on your the River Brathay, on the edge of the valley of Skelwith
doorstop if you’re feeling adventurous. Bridge.
From £1195 for 7 nights From £825 for 7 nights
28Merlestead
3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
Benefitting from its elevated and secluded setting, Merlestead offers superb accommodation with lovely views to
the hills of the north Lakes and Derwent Water. Lake Bassenthwaite, Buttermere and Ullswater are all within easy
reach and offering a myriad of walks of al levels, mountain biking and water sports.
From £645 for 7 nights
29Lakelovers
Dog Friendly Cottages
Perfect for your dog friendly holiday in the tranquil Lake District.
Left images : Low Cartmell Fold | Right Images : High Lindeth
Low Cartmell Fold High Lindeth
4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms 5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
Traditional 17th Century Lake District meets 21st century We are sure that High Lindeth will be the focal point of
luxury convenience as you step inside Low Cartmell many happy family holidays in The Lake District and if you
Fold. This quintessential Lakeland farmhouse has been are looking for a spacious and comfortable base for your
fully refurbished with love and care to create high quality Lakeland visit this really could be the one for you. Dating
and luxurious accommodation in the pretty village of back over three hundred years this converted farm and
Crosthwaite. 2 Dogs Welcome. attached barn oozes character combined with 21st
Century comforts and facilities. 2 Dogs Welcome.
From £845 for 7 nights From £1045 for 7 nights
30Emma and Dolly at Tarn Hows
Ask the Expert
Emma Heath
Exploring the Lake District with your dog can be as
varied or as relaxed and peaceful as you want it to be.
We caught up with Emma, our sales and marketing
assistant, to find out where her go-to spots are for a
weekend with her dog, Dolly.
Tell us a little bit about you and Dolly.
I have lived in the Lake District for the last 20 years, prior
to this my family spent many holidays up in the Lakes
staying in my Grandparents home at Skelwith Bridge.
Dolly who is 4 years old has lived with me for 2 years after
coming into Animal Rescue Cumbria, the local rescue
shelter where I volunteer. You can find me here on my
days off, booted up in full waterproof gear and dog leads
The Lake District is becoming the leading
in both hands.
destination for dog lovers in the UK. And we pride
ourselves on the standard of our dog friendly
Me and Dolly moved to Windermere two years ago
accommodation. We have a range of cottages
after moving from Pullwoods nr Ambleside, just down
that are pet friendly and what’s more, Lakelovers
the hill from the Drunken Duck Inn which is still one of
don’t charge for pets!
our favourite places to enjoy a good pub lunch. Dogs
are welcome in the bar, which is fantastic because that
is where the open fire is located! They have a delicious
menu with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too. Is Dolly welcome to go shopping with you?
What does a typical weekend in the Lakes look The majority of shops in Windermere are dog friendly,
like for you and Dolly? and one of our favourite shops is Peter Hall and Son. They
have beautiful window displays and an excellent selection
Walking!! Winter walks are our favourite - I love wrapping of handmade gifts and homely decorations and bespoke
up, putting my boots on and getting outside & Dolly loves handmade furniture. You’ll also see lovely artwork by
rolling in the frost and snow! After a crisp winter walk and one of our favourite local artists Rebecca Hall Illustrations.
an afternoon looking around the local shops we love to Me and Dolly always like to shop local if we can.
warm up with a pizza at our favourite restaurant.
Where’s your favourite dog-friendly
What’s your go-to dog friendly walk? place to eat?
School Knott is our regular walk, it is so varied with Bowness-on-Windermere’s Base Pizza! Great pizza and
spectacular views. There is a tarn towards the end of the friendly staff - All pizzas are handmade and cooked in a
route with flowing water so it is always fresh and clean wood fired oven in front of your very eyes. It is probably
making it ideal for a splash about or a drink stop for Dolly. the most dog friendly place around!
As you leave the tarn and ascend to the top you can see
right down the lake towards Waterhead, Langdale Pikes The restaurant is beautifully decorated, light, airy and
in the distance. School Knott is a pleasant walk and not spacious. There is plenty of room either under the table
too strenuous, ideal for dogs and children alike. Much of for doggies. If Dolly is lucky, and I don’t eat it all, she may
the route is on gravelled paths and tracks. Sheep & Cows get a tiny piece of pizza crust at the end of the meal but
graze in the fields, and have never given any problems, if you find your pizza is too good to share dog treats and
but our advice as always is keep your dog safe and on a water bowls are provided.
lead at all times around livestock!
3132
Lowfield House
5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms
Lowfield House is set in the hamlet of Little Langdale in the stunning valley with the
same name, and situated between the breath taking Coniston Fells to the south
and the Langdale Fells to the north. Lowfield House can only be described as a
property that offers you the wow factor, stunning views and sits in one of the most
beautiful places in the Lake District.
The property has been in the same family ownership for three generations and has
undergone a full modernisation and been lovingly restored by the current owners
and it is a great choice for special occasions and extended family holidays offering
superb accommodation in breath-taking surroundings.
From £3500 for 7 nights
33Sycamore Gap – Ben Bush Photography
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