ARTS & CULTURE
CUMBRIA HAS A RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE WHICH CONTINUES TO INSPIRE CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS. WE’VE COMPILED A SHORT(ISH) LIST OF SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE EXAMPLES OF WHERE ART & CULTURE MEET LANDSCAPE AND HERITAGE.
BLACKWELL ART & CRAFT HOUSE, BOWNESS-ON-WINDERMERE
015394 46139
One of the most enchanting historic houses in the Lake District, built in the Arts & Crafts style, offering a full programme of exhibitions, displays, events and activities for the children and adults. Often missed by tourists because it’s a little off the beaten track, but well worth the visit.
BRANTWOOD, CONNISTON
015394 41396
Supposedly, John Ruskin wasn’t a very nice man (see the film ‘Effie Gray’ for a synopsis) but home of this renowned Victorian scholar and artist on the East shore of Coniston Water is well worth a visit. A stunning historic house, museum and vibrant centre for the arts, Ruskin’s former home has a wealth of things to see and do for the whole family.
BREWERY ARTS CENTRE, KENDAL
01539 725133
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A fabulous arts centre in the heart of Kendal offering theatre, dance, exhibitions, cinemas, music and workshops. The integrated bar and restaurant offers an extensive menu and serves some of the best pizzas around with exquisite views across the town and countryside.
DOVE COTTAGE, GRASMERE
Tel: 015394 35544
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William Wordsworth’s first family home and the only place in the world to see his personal possessions. The house and gardens are a must see, whilst their event programme has lots of literary inspired activities for all ages. A truly beautiful, inspiring day out.
HOLKER HALL, HOLKER
Tel: 015395 58328
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Holker Hall is the home of the Cavendish family set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens that merge into Parkland framed by the Lakeland Hills. Visitors can enjoy tours of the house and gardens or a strolls around the magnificent parkland. As well as a beautiful shop, playground and a jam packed events programme, there is a fantastic new brasserie on site called the Ilex which is well worth a visit for lunch or dinner.
RYDAL MOUNT
Tel: 015394 33002
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William Wordsworth’s second home and a stunning example of a grand Cumbria house with exquisite views across Rydal Water. Entry will get you access to the house, gardens and tearoom and its worth checking out their event programme too. One of our favourites.
MIREHOUSE, BASSENTHWAITE
017687 72287
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A very beautiful family run historic house with gardens, lakeshore and woodland playgrounds open for visitors to enjoy whatever the weather. Take a picnic, or enjoy a meal at the Old Sawmill Tearoom across the road. Check the website for opening dates and times.
THEATRE BY THE LAKE, KESWICK
017687 74411
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Drama, music & comedy, all within steps of Derwentwater. Check out their programme of an up to date list of what’s on.
HILLTOP, FAR SAWREY
015394 36269
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Explore the absolutely beautiful home and gardens of Beatrix Potter, now owned by the National Trust, then head into the nearby village of Hawkshead for tea, cake and a spot of retail therapy, before taking the car ferry across Lake Windermere home to April Cottage.
THE STORYTELLER’S GARDEN, GRASMERE
015394 33643 or 07855 628012
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Enjoy a very special storytelling experience with the UK’s first Storytelling Laureate, Taffy Thomas, in the beautiful Storyteller’s Garden at Grasmere. Check out Taffy’s website to find out where else he’s performing and when.