Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Southwaite

"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."

"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."

"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."

"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."

"Two miles off the B5285 from Hawkshead, a winding country lane leads to this famously photogenic artificial lake, now owned by the National Trust. Trails wind their way around the lakeshore and surrounding woodland – keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels in the treetops."

"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."

"Our hotel is perfectly situated with views of Lake Windermere, just a short stroll from the bustling village centre of Bowness-on-Windermere and the boats that travel the length of Windermere, making it easy to visit Ambleside, Brockhole, Wray Castle and Lakeside without a car. The Lakes Hotel & Spawas previously called the Burnside Hotel & Spa. The hotel has some of the best on-site facilities in the area, half of the rooms with hot tubs on private balconies, an on-site spa with poolside seating and a bar, stylish restaurant and cocktail bar, bike hire, wakesurfing and paddleboading."

"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."

"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."

"Tucked away on North Road, the Unicorn is one of those pubs you have to know about. This part of Ambleside was known as Above Stock and is home to some of the oldest buildings in the town, with the Unicorn being the oldest pub. As you would expect with that kind of accolade, it has a wonderful traditional feel and serves up hearty pub meals and real ale."

"This traditional English pub is full of warming woods and good-quality food and ales. Just a stone's throw from the shores of Windermere, it boasts a really relaxed atmosphere and reasonably-priced meals in generous portions. From cheesy burgers to amazing steaks, you'll leave with a full belly!"

"If you are looking for good quality, hearty food at an affordable price, then the Flying Pig is a great option. We really enjoyed the great fish and chips, as well as the juicy burgers here. Both of which go down very well with a refreshing pint!"

"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."

"Bank Tavern is a great dog-friendly pub in Keswick, a fine spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day exploring the local area. The restaurant offers a range of traditional pub food, perfect for couples and families looking for a relaxing time. The bar offers a variety of ales produced by Jennings, a local brewery founded over 200 years ago, ideal for thirsty walkers looking to sample some local beers."

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