Must See Sights and Landmarks in Pardshaw Area

"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."

"One of the best rainy day places to visit in Windermere for families, Wray Castle is a rambling mock-Gothic castle with masses of indoor and outdoor space. Things to do include dressing up, giant foam brick building & a Peter Rabbit experience. On the shore of the lake, it’s great for sunny days too ….more things to do here >>"

"The poet William Wordsworth was born on 7 April 1770 at this handsome Georgian house at the end of Main St. Built around 1745, the house has been meticulously restored based on accounts from the Wordsworth archive: the kitchen, drawing room, study and bedrooms all look much as they would have to a young William. Costumed guides wander around the house for added period authenticity. Outside, the walled kitchen garden was mentioned in Wordsworth's autobiographical epic The Prelude."

"This old slate mine has been reinvented as a centre for all kinds of activities: you could venture underground into the bowels of the old 'Edge' and 'Kimberley' mines, tackle a via ferrata, or climb inside the mine along a system of fixed cables, tracing the route followed by the slate miners. A tour into the 'Cathedral' mine runs on Friday by request, but you'll need eight people and it costs £25 per person."

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

"The car park in Waterhead can be the starting point for a picturesque two-hour walk in the ancient woodland above Ambleside, cresting at Jenkin Crag, a great vantage point above Windermere. Nearly all of the path is in thick woodland, and there are steps to make the going lighter on wet days. One of the loveliest sections guides you along the Ambleside Champion Tree Trail, which has England’s tallest grand fir."

"Sitting above Stock Beck next to Rydal Road, Bridge House may be the whole region’s most photographed landmark. Like all of Ambleside this adorable, narrow dwelling is constructed from local slate and has been owned by the National Trust for nearly a century after it was bought and donated by a group of local residents. The Bridge House dates from the 17th century, when it was used as an orchard storehouse, and has since been a mill counting house, chair-maker’s workshop, cobbler’s shop, tearoom and a family home packed with as many as eight people."

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

"Metres from Windermere’s northern shore is an archaeological site for the Roman fort of Galava, founded towards the end of the 1st century. This stronghold defended the intersection of three Roman roads, heading off to Ravenglass and Carlisle on Hadrian’s Wall to the north, and Papcastle to the west. The remains date from the 2nd or 3rd century, when it appears that the fort was demolished and reconstructed."

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

"2/3 Old Post Office Millans Park, Ambleside LA22 9AD EnglandJapanese, Seafood, Sushi, Asian, DeliLunch, DinnerTakeout, Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Table Service+44 7865 616366http://auradaze.co.uk"

"This is a quirky friendly place for a homemade scone, cake, or soup. Everyone’s welcome again I’ve popped in here for a coffee after a day’s walking with muddy boots, woofs in tow, and felt right at home. Definitely worth a visit if your passing it’s a lovely atmosphere and everyone’s friendly and welcoming."

"Owned by the same people as Ambleside Manor, Fellinis offers vegetarian fine dining with a modern twist. Expect decadent risotto, comforting pastry dishes and some classic puddings that have been veganised. We didn’t actually manage to eat here but we’ll definitely be back to try it, as everyone I’ve spoken to has given it rave reviews."

"11/06/2021: Not quite as much choice on this menu but still delicious food. There was a bit of a wait to be expected due to how busy it was but we had a great night and staff were nice. 07/06/2021: Top quality food and service."

"The Priest Hole Restaurant and Tea Rooms are part of Kelsick Old Hall, one of the oldest buildings in the beautiful village of Ambleside with many original features and a lovely atmosphere. There is also a delightful outside terrace for alfresco meals on those warmer days, or just to sit and have a coffee and watch the world go by. They serve fresh home-made traditional Cumbrian/British food, all sourced locally, and accompanied by a good selection of drinks."

"The Priest Hole restaurant, Ambleside, serves a mouthwatering, Mediterranean and English menu, all prepared in their own kitchens. Situated in the 16th Century Kelsick Hall in Ambleside, with it’s lovingly restored oak paneling, floorboards and fireplaces."

"Head to The Back Bar to catch the night’s game or to just enjoy some delicious fish ‘n’ chips. Part of the imposing Inn on the Square, the Back Bar is a comfy space for a game of pool or darts, a meal with the family, or a couple of drinks with friends. Perfect for a laid-back night out."

"With traditional beams and a cosy log fire, this is a perfect pub to head for after a rainy day exploring the things to do in the Lakes. Located just off Keswick’s Market Square, Pack Horse has a collection of draught ales for you to try whilst you tuck into one of their locally sourced dishes. Food: From £3.75, see the menuDog-Friendly: YesAddress: The Pack Horse Inn, Pack Horse Court, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5JBContact: 01768 771 148; www.packhorsekeswick.co.uk"

"If you’re still pumped from your day’s outdoor adventures and are looking to keep the energy going, then try a live music night at The Pack Horse Inn. Even without the music, the atmosphere is great in this traditional-style pub with its open fire, large selection of beers, wines and Prosecco, and great food."