Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Rosthwaite

"An impressive sight with its turrets and battlements, this mock-Gothic castle was built in 1840 for James Dawson, a retired doctor from Liverpool, but it has been owned by the National Trust since 1929. Though the interior is largely empty, the lakeside grounds are glorious. It was once used as a holiday home by Beatrix Potter's family. The best way to arrive is by boat from Bowness; there's limited parking and preference is given to non-driving visitors on busy days."

"This proper fairytale castle only recently opened its doors to the public and is operated by the National Trust. The neo-gothic castle has numerous towers and turrets to explore and various exhibitions to check out along the way. For example, kids can dress up in period costumes, build their own castle and explore the new Peter Rabbit adventure rooms, as well as an excellent outdoor play area too."

"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."

"In collaboration with Cumbria Tourism, we had been lucky enough to be provided with tickets for some activities at Brockhole. Located a few miles from Bowness and on the way to Ambleside, Brockhole is an absolute gem of a day out for families. There is a real mix of activities on offer for all ages and although you have to pay for parking, there are lots of activities that are free to take part in (although you will be tempted by the abundance of activities on offer that you do need to pay for so be prepared!)."

"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."

"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."

"Cockermouth was the birthplace of William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy, whose childhood home was this 18th-century town house, carefully…"

"Two miles south of Hawkshead, in the tiny village of Near Sawrey, this idyllic farmhouse was purchased in 1905 by Beatrix Potter and was used as inspiration for many of her tales: the house features directly in Samuel Whiskers, Tom Kitten, Pigling Bland and Jemima Puddle-Duck, among others, and you might recognise the kitchen garden from Peter Rabbit. Entry is by timed ticket in order to manage demand, but you can't prebook, and it's very popular, so prepare to queue."

"Children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter (1866–1943), most famous for her Peter Rabbit stories, called this place home. The…"

"The Lake District National Park is famous for being home to the Romantic poets, especially Wordsworth. It is said to have provided inspiration for a lot of his poetry – looking around, it’s easy to see why. The entire landscape is peppered with perfect cottages, fields full of daffodils, rolling mountains, and dazzling lakes. The panoramas in The Lake District National Park will leave you hankering for more."

"The Lakes District is all shimmering lakes and craggy hilltops which attract over 15 million people each year. The Yorkshire Dales on the other hand is about the snaking rivers running though valleys of rolling green hills. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days stretching the muscle’s on a long walk or two."

"Rope swings on the grounds, picnics in atmospheric old rooms, free tea and coffee, and huge blackboards you can write on: Allan Bank…"

"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."

"The poet William Wordsworth's most famous residence in the Lake District is undoubtedly Dove Cottage, but he actually spent a great deal more time at Rydal Mount, 1.5 miles northwest of Ambleside, off the A591. This was the Wordsworth family's home from 1813 until the poet's death in 1850 and the house contains a treasure trove of Wordsworth memorabilia. Bus 555 (and bus 599 from April to October) stops at the end of the drive."

"With a picturesque location in Ambleside, Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, BW Premier Collection features a modern spaand a brasserie. There is free parking and spacious rooms with free WiFi and scenic views towards Wansfell. Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa is set in a 17th-century building, and has a leisure club with a swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and steam room."

"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!"

"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 poet William Wordsworth's most famous residence in the Lake District is undoubtedly Dove Cottage, but he actually spent a great deal more time at Rydal Mount, 1.5 miles northwest of Ambleside, off the A591. This was the Wordsworth family's home from 1813 until the poet's death in 1850 and the house contains a treasure trove of Wordsworth memorabilia. Bus 555 (and bus 599 from April to October) stops at the end of the drive."

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

"The poet William Wordsworth's most famous residence in the Lake District is undoubtedly Dove Cottage, but he actually spent a great deal more time at Rydal Mount, 1.5 miles northwest of Ambleside, off the A591. This was the Wordsworth family's home from 1813 until the poet's death in 1850 and the house contains a treasure trove of Wordsworth memorabilia. Bus 555 (and bus 599 from April to October) stops at the end of the drive."

"Owned by the Kennedy family since 1984, Lindeth Fell is a stunning Edwardian home with traditional touches such as parquet flooring, traditional sofas and pastoral artwork. Guests are welcomed with home-made scones and tea, and the friendly service from staff continues through your stay. The 14 bedrooms are all extremely spacious, with ensuite bathrooms and tasteful decor."

"Overlooking Lake Windermere, Lindeth Fell offers impressive views and free parking, just 5 minutes from Windermere Ferry Crossing. It offers colourful flower gardens, elegant rooms and tea and scones on arrival. An extensive breakfast menu is served in the bright dining room overlooking 7 acres of beautiful gardens and the stunning Coniston mountain range."