Principal Towns and Villages of the
Lake District
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Ambleside
(Market Day : Wednesday)
Situated at the Northern tip of Windermere lake about 5 miles from Bowness. The village centre is about a half mile from the steamer pier at Waterhead. Regular bus services from Windermere to Coniston,Grasmere and Keswick pass through. Stock Ghyll Force is a fine waterfall a short walk from the centre, whilst the diminutive Bridge House and Hayes Garden World should not be missed.
Cockermouth
Situated at the North-
Coniston
Situated at the northern tip of Coniston Water about 5 miles west of Bowness in an area once dominated by copper mining and slate quarrying. It was on Coniston Water that Donald Campbell died in 1967 whilst attempting to break the water speed record. Today the splendid Gondola steam boat dating from 1859 and owned by the National Trust operates a regular service during the tourist season from Easter to October. Nearby is Brantwood the home of John Ruskin the 19th. Century writer and philosopher.
Grasmere
Situated 4 miles north-west of Ambleside just off the main Windermere/Keswick road is this attractive village nestling in a valley between towering fells. Close by are Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount both one-time homes of William Wordsworth.
Hawkshead
This picture postcard little village full of historical interest is situated east of Coniston. A charming cluster of cottages, inns and shops (including Wordsworth's school and the Beatrix Potter Gallery) form pretty alleys and squares. Nearby is the village of Sawrey and Hilltop, the home of Beatrix Potter.
Staycation Guide to the Lake District