Best Arts and Culture Places in Ullswater

"Lake Road, Keswick (15 min walk) — Art Gallery and cafe in Keswick, serving great lunches. One of The Independent’s top 50 coffee shops in the UK. Same family ownership as Bristowe Hill."

"Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake, with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving."

"Brockhole, situated in 30 acres of gardens between Ambleside and Windermere, is the Lake District National Park Authority Visitor Centre. One of the most popular Windermere attractions, it has its own landing stage, tree top trek, boat and bike hire, shop, tea rooms….see all things to do here >>"

"Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. Browse round the shop and treat yourself to something tasty in the café. The extensive gardens are a delight whatever time you choose to visit."

"Farfield is a restored Victorian woollen mill in a quiet corner of Cumbria and in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Filled with artist studios, exhibitions, heritage displays, working looms, art and craft for sale by local artists, plus tea and cake at…"

"Nestling between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, a rescued Farfield Mill opened its doors in 2001 to an exciting new life providing access to high-quality art and crafts and heritage."

"In the 17th-century solicitor's offices formerly used by Potter's husband, the Beatrix Potter Gallery displays a selection of the artist-writer…"

"If you’re looking to pick up some local bits and pieces to decorate your home with when you get back, pop into local artist Rebecca Cropper’s studio in Bowness, where she sells framed and mounted pieces. Incorporating lots of the local landscape into her works, the collection also includes mugs, cushions, lampshades and other homeware too. Alongside these great local stores, Bowness is also home to a selection of high-street names such as Pandora, Fat Face, Joules, Edinburgh Woolen Mill and more, so why not spend a day indulging in a bit of retail therapy during your stay in Bowness?"

"While I haven’t actually ever been to the Rheged Centre, I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things from my family about it. Its name reminding me somewhat of a Targaryen character from Game of Thrones, the Rheged Centre is home to a 6-storey high cinema screen, numerous shops, cafes and a huge outdoor activity centre for both children and adults to enjoy. It’s open all year round and is ideal for almost all weather conditions due to its indoor and outdoor facilities."

"On the eastern shore of Coniston Water, Brantwood was the cherished home of John Ruskin (1819–1900), the noted Victorian artist, writer,…"

"Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic evening for two, a night out with friends or a family affair, this Keswick restaurant is the perfect spot. Located within a popular hotel, Inn on the Square boasts an AA Rosette-award-winning steakhouse, as well as two quirky bars. The Brossen Steakhouse is one of the best places to eat in Keswick, offering delectable meat including oak-smoked rump, juicy ribeye, and tender fillets – all accompanied by a yummy choice of over 15 sides and around 50 wine pairings."

"Located in the centre of Keswick the inn on the Square has various options for you. The bar overlooking Keswick main street serving fantastic coffee and scones for a little snack or there is also a full bar menu that’s worth sampling. For the evening, the steak restaurant is exceptional we took Dave for Father’s Day and he keeps asking when he can go back, bless him – definitely worth a visit if you like your steaks."

"The Flying Fleece has just opened in July 2020, in a 15th century fulling mill. The historic mill building has recently been refurbished and the interiors have been designed to create a relaxing and cosy atmosphere that retains that recognisable traditional British pub feel. Food is served all day, while the atmosphere is casual and relaxed: diners can even enjoy their meal while admiring the working weir, millrace and wheel which still stand inside the building."

"Set in a historic mill building, The Flying Fleece takes its name from the old industry of fulling that took place there. You can still admire the working weir, wheel, and other bits of machinery while you enjoy a tasty meal and good drinks. There’s also an open fire for warming up by and a lovely patio when you want to soak up the sun."

"Right in the centre of Keswick, The Lion is very proud of its delicious Sunday roasts. If you’re not there on a Sunday, though, never fear, they serve good food throughout the week, too!. With traditional pub grub and a weekly quiz, it’s the perfect local!"

"It is located right on the shores of Windermere, offering a range of activities. The traditional restaurant allows guests to eat any time of day while admiring views of the lake. There is a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and full fitness studio."

"Afternoon Tea at Low Wood Bay is a quintessentially traditional experience. Served within the delightful surrounds of either The Windermere Restaurant or Buckley room."

"Landscaped gardens, a spa center, and comfortable rooms are part of what makes up the Beech Hill Hotel & Spa. The spa on site here has a heated indoor pool, a sauna, steam room, and an outdoor pool. The hotel restaurant contributes to the feel of luxury and convenience."

"On the shores of Lake Windermere, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spahas an award-winning restaurant, a beauty spa and scenic views. Windermere centre is a 20-minute walk away. With 2 AA Rosettes, the restaurant serves a modern menu featuring quality local produce and organic ingredients."

"White Cross Bay is less than 5 minutes by car to Brockhole, where you can catch a boat to the other side of Lake Windermere to visit Wray Castle. On the way out you have to go to Ambleside first, get off the boat for 20 mins, re-board, and then set off for Wray Castle but on the trip back you go straight across to Brockhole. The Woodland Nature Play Trail at Wray Castle is great."

"Families can explore the activity rooms inside the castle, where there’s plenty of space for creative play. With a natural playground in the grounds and a path to spacious grassy area on the lakeshore, its a great for the whole family whatever the weather."

"The former regional agent for the National Trust, Cubby Acland, landscaped this picture perfect eight-acre garden by the lakefront on Waterhead’s south side. The lower part of the Jenkin Crag walk will lead you into this space. Half of the garden is cultivated, with magnolias, camellias, azaleas, embothriums, shrubs and rhododendrons, which do well in the Lake District’s acidic soils."