A summer haven for one of Britain's most distinguished poets
It was at the Hawkshead Grammar School, an institution established by Royal Charter in the 16th century, that William Wordsworth enrolled in the year 1778, at a time when this area was actually part of the county of Lancashire. During the long summer holidays of his university years at Cambridge, he spent much of his time in the village, and would often walk through the surrounding countryside to absorb the aesthetic beauty of the area, the diet of his literary inspiration.
The Parish Church
Dating back to the late 13th century, the St Michael and All Angels Church features a unique combination of original Gothic and Gothic Revival architectural styles. The building was carefully refurbished in the Victorian period, and is now protected as a Grade I Listed landmark.
The Beatrix Pottery Gallery
Learn about the life of another famous local figure, the esteemed author and illustrator Beatrix Potter, whose husband worked at the charming 17th-century building now housing the Beatrix Potter Gallery. The interactive gallery exhibits numerous artefacts relating to Potter's eventful life, including a special collection of some of her original illustrations.
The Hawkshead Courthouse
This 14th-century site was once a large medieval manor known as Hawkshead Hall, although many of the buildings were removed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. Today, the Hawkshead Courthouse is maintained by the National Trust, and can be visited by appointment free of charge.
Exploring the rest of the Lake District
A literary and artistic inspiration for countless other famous figures such as Samuel Coleridge, the Lake District is overlooked by the highest peak in England, Scafell Pike, which has an elevation of 978 metres. Every year, the National Park welcomes millions of visitors, from hikers and cyclists to landscape artists and nature lovers.
Across the park, there are more than 1,700 listed and historic landmarks, as well as thousands of other important archaeological sites. Some of the most attractive lakes include Lake Windermere, Coniston Water, Derwentwater, and Ullswater.
Where to stay and eat in Hawkshead
Popular Hawkshead hotels include the stylish, friendly Yewfield Bed & Breakfast, the sophisticated Walker Ground Manor, and the cosy Waterside House. For some mouthwatering English cuisine, dine at The Outgate Inn, or, for other delicious British dishes, head to The Sun Inn.
