The beautifully preserved Grasmere home where England’s finest poet, William Wordworth, wrote his best-loved poetry.
Have a guided tour of his inspirational cottage and discover the internationally important collection of portraits, manuscripts and possessions in the Wordworth Museum. Special exhibitions, tea rooms and gift shop.
Open daily except Christmas and four weeks from 8th Jan, 2007.
Telephone: (015394) 35544
www.wordsworth.org.uk
Rydal Mount & Gardens - Rydal
A two mile scenic walk or drive away from the Hotel, Rydal Mount was Wordsworth’s family home from 1813 until his death in 1850. Now owned by his great great great granddaughter, who visits regularly, it is kept much as Wordworth knew it. With many of his artefacts, and retains the loved and lived-in feel.
Wordsworth himself designed the gardens, and much of the original planting can be seen today. Sit in his summerhouse, enjoy the breathtaking views, and understand why Wordsworth loved to write here.
Open daily, except Tuesdays in winter, and from 10th to 31st January.
Telephone: (015394) 33002
www.rydalmount.co.uk
The Heaton Cooper Studio - Grasmere
Alfred Heaton Cooper (1863 – 1929) and his son William Heaton Cooper (1903 – 1995) achieved international recognition for their paintings of Lake District scenes. The Studio, which is just a two-minute walk from the Hotel, exhibits paintings, prints and sculpture from four generations of the family, including grandson Julian.
The Studio stocks an interesting range of painting and drawing materials, and an exceptional selection of papers.
Open daily, except Sunday mornings
Telephone: (015394) 35280St. Oswald’s Church - Grasmere
Part of this historic Church, located next to the Hotel, dates back to the 14th century, and it is likely that there was a church on this site from even earlier times. Significant additions in the 16th century gave St. Oswald’s the structure that we see today. William Wordsworth and his wife Mary are buried in the churchyard. In The Wordsworth Daffodil Garden, next to the graves, you can express your love of The Lakes by sponsoring the planting of wild daffodils or a shrub, or by having your name carved on a stone of the Lakeland state path.
Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
From 1630 for 220 years, this charming little building, situated between the Church and the Hotel, served as the Village School.
Both William and Mary Wordsworth taught here in the 19th century, believing that universal education was the way for children to escape from poverty and ignorance.
The Original celebrated Grasmere Gingerbread is still made in accordance with Sarah Nelson’s 150 year old secret recipe. Enjoy a slice with tea or coffee in our Dove Bar.