Things to do in Grasmere, Cumbria

Aside from the connections with Wordsworth, there’s plenty of walks in Grasmere to enjoy, boating activities on lake Grasmere to participate in and some lovely shops to peruse.

Things to do in Grasmere

As I’ve mentioned already visitors flock to Grasmere because of the town’s connections with William Wordsworth, so a visit to his home is a must on any trip.

Dove Cottage Grasmere

Dove Cottage was the home of William and his sister Dorothy between 1799 and 1808. Its also where his first three children were born after his marriage to Mary in 1802.

The stone cottage with its whitewashed walls and slate roof is in an idyllic part of Grasmere village. On a guided tour you can get a feel for day to day life back in the early 19th Century.

In addition to the house, it’s worth visiting the museum at the Jerwood centre. Exhibits here include many of Wordsworth’s original manuscripts, photographs and unique objects from his home.

The gardens at the back of the house are worth exploring, particularly in summer when the wildflowers and cottage garden plants are in bloom.

Unfortunately, Dove cottage and the museum are under renovation and currently closed to the public. Still, it is due to reopen in 2020.

Wordsworth Daffodil Garden Grasmere

The Wordsworth daffodil garden next to St Oswald’s Church is beautiful. Friends of Grasmere initiated the creation to raise funds to promote the heritage of the village.

Beneficiaries of the trust include St Oswald’s church, Lakeland housing trust, the National Trust and the Wordsworth Trust. All of these do a magnificent job, despite the costs involved in preserving the heritage of Grasmere lake district.

The path is the main feature and was a genius way to raise money. People from all over the world purchased a slate which had their names engraved on.

The idea behind the garden was to emulate the words of Wordsworth famous poem about daffodils, which the society did with tremendous success.

The trust also planted thousands of daffodil bulbs alongside the unique path that winds around what was once a piece of wasteland. To see the garden at its best, visit during the spring when the daffodils are out in full glory.

The garden is free for all to visit and enjoy all year round.

Allan Bank Grasmere

Allan Bank house is the large family house that Wordsworth moved into when Dove cottage was no longer big enough for them.

Sitting above the lake with stunning views across Helm Grag Grasmere, Allan house is a significant landmark and one of the unique Grasmere attractions.

A massive fire in 2011 damaged much of the house, but the National Trust has since restored it, and it is open to the public. Unlike most historic homes there are not lots of artefacts on display nor is there splendid decor to enjoy.

Allan House is an innovative and creative space. It’s a place to come and read a book, get creative in one of the art rooms or take a picnic with a beautiful view in the garden.

If you’re lucky, you might spot a red squirrel foraging around the trees. You can help yourself to tea and coffee (donations are welcome) or sit by the roaring fire and relax.

Dogs are welcome so long as they are on a lead and you are allowed to bring your food in, so its a fantastic place for families to enjoy.

St Oswald’s Church

The church sits on the bank of the River Rothay and takes its name from St Oswald a Christian King from the 7th Century. Most visitors come here to see the family graves of the Wordsworth Family.

However, if you have time, do take a look inside the building, some of which dates back to 1250AD.

William Wordsworth Grave

The Wordsworth family graves are surrounded by black railings at the top end of the graveyard towards the river.

William Wordsworth grave has a simple inscription and sits next to his sister, brother and children.

Gingerbread Grasmere

After enjoying a long walk, a visit to the gingerbread shop is a must. Sarah Nelson’s gingerbread is famous for its unique, spicy taste. It crumbles delightfully with every bite you take.

The shop is tiny, but it oozes character and has changed little since it opened in Victorian times.

A visit here is like stepping back in time. Sarah Nelson invented the recipe in 1854 from her home which is now the shop in Grasmere.

The lady behind the counter still wears traditional Victorian clothes, and there’s often a massive queue outside to purchase the famous gingerbread. Even if you don’t like ginger, you have to try it.

Grasmere gingerbread is unlike any other ginger biscuit, and I bet you’ll love it. The shop also sells rum butter and other delicious produce.

Storytelling Garden

Across the way from St Oswald’s church is the Taffy Thomas storytelling garden which holds occasional events throughout late spring and summer.

It’s a fantastic place to take children, so check out the website and see if they are telling any enchanted stories during your visit.

Heaton Cooper Art Gallery Grasmere 

The Heaton Cooper studio showcases work by local artists. It’s fascinating to see how the wild and vivid landscape of the lake district has inspired these artists in numerous art forms.

They also sell a wide range of art products and paintings. You can peruse the shop for free, and there’s a creative crafts table to keep the children occupied during your visit.

The gallery also has a fabulous stock of art books and a delightful cafe if you need some refreshments.

Walks -Grasmere

Hiking is without doubt one the best things to do in the Lake District. There is no shortage of walks around Grasmere, and the spectacular countryside of England is not to miss on any visit to Cumbria Grasmere and the lakes.

If you’re new to hiking you may find this article on hiking boots useful.

Short walks from Grasmere

Grasmere Riverside walk

This delightful route takes you along the banks of the River Rothay. It’s a short walk, approximately 1 mile ( just under 2km) that takes around 30 minutes to complete.

Start at Broadgate car park and go over the footbridge. The walk takes you past the gingerbread shop and through the churchyard of St Oswald’s. You can find out more information about this walk at the visitor’s centre.

The coffin Trail Grasmere

In medieval times people carried the dead in coffins along this road to reach St Oswald’s church hence the walks name.

Today it’s an easy trail that links Ambleside and Grasmere with some stunning scenery to admire along the way.

You’ll pass both dove cottage, and Rydal house along the trail and the path is easy to navigate.

There are several options to return to Grasmere either by foot or bus. For more information and directions click here.

Longer walks near Grasmere

Helvellyn

A more challenging walk around Grasmere is up Helvellyn.

The hike up Helvellyn is Britains most famous walk, and while the route from Thirlmere is the easiest, it is possible to climb Helvellyn from Grasmere.

The way from Grasmere is via Grisedale Tarn. You’ll need to set off reasonably early as its a considerable hike.

Helm Crag

The circular walk from Grasmere will take you approximately 5 hours, and if you want to reach the summit, there is some scrambling involved. There is a more direct route up Helm Crag which takes you up a steep path from Easedale.

For more information on walks in and around Grasmere, Ambleside and Rydal [easyazon_link identifier=”0956429610″ locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]check out this book.[/easyazon_link] The [easyazon_link identifier=”1872405053″ locale=”US” tag=”passportand0e-20″ cart=”n”]Hallewell pocket walking guide series[/easyazon_link] also has an excellent book on walks Grasmere, Ambleside and Windermere.

Pubs in Grasmere

Grasmere in the lake district has a couple of excellent pubs. After a walk on the fells, there’s nothing more enjoyable than enjoying a pint.

The Inn at Grasmere dates back to 1789 and is full of charm and character. There’s an excellent choice of ales such as Cumberland, EPA, Black sheep and Hawkshead bitter.

The 1769 bar-restaurant serves good food and accommodation is available. Another superb option for a relaxing pint is Tweedies bar Grasmere.

They serve a good selection of beer and some fantastic wines. The food is excellent, and the lodge offers accommodation that’s clean and super comfortable.

Restaurants in Grasmere

If you love superb food, the Michelin starred Forest side Grasmere Restaurant is a must.

Forest Side Hotel

Serving modern British cuisine in a beautiful Victorian manor house the Forest side takes its inspiration from the surrounding Cumbrian landscape.

There’s a choice of tasting menus including a vegetarian option, and wine pairings are available. Most of the vegetables come from the kitchen garden and you’re welcome to take a stroll around the gardens.

You can also stay overnight in the mansion and packages which include dinner are available.

Jumble Room

If you prefer to dine somewhere a little more eccentric, the Jumble Room offers a range of international cuisine. Dishes range from fish and chips to Moroccan spiced stew.

The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the service is excellent. It’s advisable to book a table before visiting the Jumble Room Grasmere.

Other places to eat in Grasmere include Lewis’s, the Grasmere Hotel and the Traveller’s rest Grasmere. The Wordsworth signature restaurant at the Wordsworth hotel Grasmere is also worth a visit.

Cafes in Grasmere

There’s plenty of delightful cafes to enjoy a tea break on your visit to Grasmere.

If you are looking for recommendations, Baldry’s tea room is an excellent choice for breakfast. They also have a delicious selection of homemade cakes to enjoy.

Heidi’s of Grasmere, the Mathilde’s Cafe next to the Heaton Cooper Gallery and Green’s of Grasmere are all excellent places for lunch.

Hotels in Grasmere

Grasmere accommodation has properties to suit every budget. Whether you enjoy camping or a luxury room with a view, the village has a place for you.

Hotel Daffodil Grasmere

The daffodil hotel sits on the edge of the lake is only a short walk from the centre of the village.

The hotel has luxury rooms, a spa complex which includes a thermal pool and steam room and a restaurant that offers stunning views over the water.

The lounge room is one of the best places to take afternoon tea in Grasmere. The rooms are spacious, and the breakfast is excellent.

Click here to check prices and availability at the Daffodil Hotel and Spa.

Rothay Gardens Grasmere Hotel and Spa

Rothay Manor Grasmere has 2 acres of gardens, and all rooms have beautiful views of the surrounding fells and riverside.

The restaurant serves award-winning food, and the spa offers a range of treatments if you wish to indulge. The rooms are luxurious, and the beds are super comfy.

A delicious breakfast is served daily and there’s and the staff are attentive. It’s a great place to stay for a weekend in Grasmere.

You can check prices and availability at Rothay Gardens by clicking here.

Glenthorne Guest House

If you’re a single traveller looking for excellent accommodation in Grasmere, I highly recommend the Glenthorne Guest House. The location of the property is picture-perfect with stunning views from most of the windows.

It’s only a short walk into the village, and there’s a free car park which is rare in the Lake District. The society Friends of the Quakers owns Glenthorne Guest House, and there is a daily quaker worship meeting if you wish to attend.

You can pre-book an evening meal, and guests are encouraged to dine together. Rooms are simple, clean and comfortable with ensuite bathrooms.

For more information about Glenthorne Guest house click here.

Grange End Stables

There are several outstanding holiday cottages in Grasmere, but I love Grange End stables. Dogs are welcome; the property has private parking and free wifi.

The property has two bedrooms and a kitchen that has a washing machine. There are some excellent restaurants close by, and it scores a 10 in all categories on booking. com.

The cottage is cosy, and the little extra touches such as the welcome basket add a special touch. What more could you want when looking for the perfect home away from home.

How to get to Grasmere

Grasmere is in the heart of the Lake District. The best way to get there and to explore the National Park is by car although there are some public transport options.

The nearest airport is Manchester which has connections to the majority of countries around the world. From Manchester, it takes around an hour and a half to drive to the Lake District in Cumbria.

By car

From the M6 motorway heading north take junction 36 and follow the signs to Windermere on the A590. This road leads onto the A591 which will take you into Grasmere.

If you are travelling south on the M6 take junction 40 onto the A66. Follow the signs for Threlkeld, which will take you onto the B5322. This road then merges onto the A591 which will take you into Grasmere. 

Parking Grasmere

One of the downsides of having a car in the Lake District is the cost of car parking. Hence opting for accommodation with free parking in the village is advisable.

Stock Lane Car Park

If you are approaching Grasmere from Windermere, Stock Lane is the first car park you’ll see signposted if you wish to visit Dove Cottage and St Oswalds church park here.

The car has two bays with electric charging sockets, and spaces for larger vehicles.

Broadgate Car Park

Broadgate is on the Northside of the village and is closer to the shops and children’s playground. The start of several walking trails also begins here.

The cost of parking is the same at both car parks and starts at £3 for up to two hours. There is also some street parking which is pay and display, but places are limited.

By train

The nearest train station is Windermere which is approximately 9 miles away. You can then take a taxi or bus.

Buses 505, 555, and 599 go through Grasmere.

If you are travelling from Manchester airport there is a direct train to Oxenholme The Lake District. The journey takes approximately one hour and twenty-five minutes.

For more information on public transport around the lake district click here. There are also regular coaches that connect Manchester airport to Grasmere.

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