Five Inspiring Places to Explore in England’s Lake District
With its impressive mountains, idyllic lakes and romantic countryside that has inspired writers and artists through the ages, England’s Lake District is truly one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Not only is the area an extensive national park, but it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. If you’ve always wanted to learn more about special region, keep reading to discover five must-see places in England’s Lake District!
Hadrian’s Wall
In the beginning of the second century, England was home to an entirely different kingdom — the Roman Empire. Roman Emperor Hadrian informed residents that a wall should be built to keep “intact the empire,” and upon this ruling, Hadrian’s Wall was constructed. Spanning an impressive 73 miles across northern Britain, Hadrian’s Wall remains an incredible archaeological wonder that illuminates Roman industry and engineering. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, and remains a popular landmark for history lovers visiting the region.
Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top House
Visitors to Beatrix Potter’s country home, Hill Top House, may feel like they have been there before — perhaps it’s because they can imagine a hungry rabbit named Peter hopping around the garden, or a naughty squirrel named Nutkin causing mischief in the yard. Beatrix Potter composed 13 out of her 23 children’s books at Hill Top House, and the home itself remains unchanged from when the author left it to England’s National Trust in 1943.
Northumberland Coast
If you love charming coastal villages, historic castles and sweeping beaches, there’s no better place to explore than the Northumberland Coast. A treasure trove of history and natural wonders — more than 700 castles and two National Nature Reserves call Northumberland home — it’s a dream for people who love to explore on foot or via road trip. If you enjoy stargazing, some of the largest protected night skies can be enjoyed here.
William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage
Located in the village of Grasmere, Dove Cottage has been home to a number of tenants through the years, most notably the poet William Wordsworth. Poems such as “My Heart Leaps Up” and “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” were composed during the years that Wordsworth resided in Dove Cottage with his family, and his sister, Dorothy, kept a fascinating Grasmere journal that has since helped historians and preservationists understand what life was like during this period. Wordsworth’s poems were known to reflect his love for nature — a passion that was undoubtedly enhanced by his residence in Grasmere. Literary enthusiasts can still visit Dove Cottage, its gardens and the Wordsworth Museum that further tells of the life of this innovative writer.
Muncaster Castle
The historic home of the Penningtons — a family who have traced their ancestors’ residence of this castle back to 1208 — Muncaster Castle is a true gem of Cumbria. It is thought that the castle was built upon Roman foundations, and was once a place of refuge for King Henry VI. With 77 acres of woodland and historic gardens known for their camellias, magnolias, daffodils, rhododendrons and azaleas, this fascinating castle and its grounds are also home to a raptor center where hawks and owls reside. Its beauty and wealth of history make Muncaster Castle a favorite location for educational events, weddings and visits by people who wish to stroll the grounds and take in this beautiful home.
Are you ready to explore England’s Lake District for yourself? Join us on The English Lake District and the Borders: Romance to Turbulance to discover Hadrian’s Wall, the Northumberland Coast and much more!