Lakeland News Round-Up

May 10th, 2013

Swallows & Amazons Film Auditions

SwallowsShooting starts this summer in the Lake District on a new film of Arthur Ransome’s children’s novel Swallows & Amazons.

The dramatisation is by Andrea Gibb, and the story line is said to be truer to the original than the 1974 film version. However, the new film departs from the original in celebrating the grandeur of the Lake District – watch out for more mountain scenery.

Still to be decided are the child actors playing the characters of John, Susan, Titty, Roger, Nancy and Peggy. If you know of a child aged between 6 and 13, send their details including age and a photo to swallowsandamazons2013@gmail.com

Keswick’s Ice Climbing Wall
Plans are afoot for a new £1 million indoor ice climbing wall in the centre of Keswick. The ambitious project is scheduled to be open by February 2014. The ice-wall will be  contained in a refrigerated room. Ice axes and crampons will be available for hire.

Also included in the plans is a 30 metre high traditional climbing wall capable of accommodating up to 60 people. There will also be a soft play area for youngsters.

The facility will be run by the Threlkeld based King Kong Climbing Walls. The only other dedicated ice wall is Ice Factor located near Glencoe in Scotland. The Lake District National Park Authority is expected to consider the plans in June/July 2013.

62 Mile Ultra Lakeland Trail Sold Out!
This ultimate Lakeland trail takes place in September and is a complete circuit of the central Lake District covering 100km or 62.6 miles. The course has to be completed in 24 hours and participants run along marked footpaths and bridleways. The 300 places available were quickly snapped up.

If you fancy participating in an Ultra marathon, then take a look of this great video of last years Lakeland 100 mile event sponsored by Montane (R). Try your hand at trail running over shorter distances, visit lakelandtrails.org

Feast of Fudge Competition
Head over to our Facebook page for details on how to enter our latest competition. You will have the chance of winning a Feast of Fudge, Truffles and Cookies. The competition is open to all, one entry per email address, competition ends at midnight on Friday, 17 May 2013. The prize will be mailed out to the winner and the winner announced on our Facebook page and in our next News Round-Up.

Up Coming Events

Lake District Self Catering Cottages

You can browse & book our range of holiday cottages online at www.lakelandcottages.co.uk We have short breaks available throughout the low season (Nov. – Mar., excluding Christmas and New Year weeks), and within 3-weeks of the holiday start date throughout the rest of the year.

Posted in Events & Activities, Flora & Fauna, Keswick, Self Catering, Self Catering Cottages | No Comments »

Thirlmere – A Surprisingly Good Day Out

April 30th, 2013

Thirlmere is often overlooked as a destination for visitors to the Lake District . However, it has a lot to offer those seeking to distract themselves for a couple of hours or even a full day. In this article we find out what to do and see on a visit to Thirlmere.

HISTORY
Thirlmere is a reservoir between Keswick and Ambleside, near to St. John’s in the Vale. It was built in the late 1800’s in order to supply water to Manchester. In creating the reservoir, two small lakes and a hamlet were submerged.

Today it provides 11% of the North West’s water supply and is managed by United Utilities. In the last couple of years United Utilities have much to open up access to the shore and surrounding area of Thirlmere. Thirlmere is a Red Squirrel Sanctuary and if you are lucky you may be able to spot them – see Red Squirrels here.

GEOGRAPHY

Thirlmere is quite a small body of water, with a surface of 3.2 square km – compared with Windermere at 14 sq km and Derwentwater at 5 sq km. It is 6 km long and has a width of 178m. There are main islands – Deergarth How Island and Hawes How Island.

FACILITIES
There are seven car parks around Thirlmere, with four of them having toilet facilities. There aren’t any cafes nearby, the nearest being in Keswick and Grasmere. In the main holiday season, you can find an ice cream van parked at The Swirls car park on the eastern side of Thirlmere.

WALKS
There are a variety of short circular walks or loops at various points around Thirlmere. And there is one main circular walk of approximately 10 miles around Thirlmere itself.

The Benn Loop at the Dam Triangle Car Park is 3.2 miles in length and takes you through the wooded slopes at the northern end of Thirlmere. The Middlesteads Loop at Armboth Car Park is 4 miles in length.

In addition, there are several excursions of 1 – 2 miles to specific vantage points or places of interest such as the “Giant Tree” and the “Tottling Stone”. A more difficult walk begins at the northern Dam Triangle car park and leads to Raven Crag and the Hill Fort.

WATERFALLS
There are several waterfalls along Launchy Gill, which is reached from either Armboth or Dobgill car parks, and a waterfall on the Harrup Tarn loop at Dobgill car park.

FISHING & BOATING
Fishing is permitted on Thirlmere with Day Permits available from Youdales Newsagents in Keswick or online at www.lakedistrictfishing.net Canoes and rowing boats are allowed on Thirlmere. You will need to obtain permission first from United Utilities by calling 017687 72334. The best launch point is at Armboth car park.

LOCAL ACCOMMODATION
There is an excellent caravan and camp site at Bridge End Farm at the northern end of Thirlmere. Alternatively, there are self catering cottages in Keswick.

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Five of Our Lake District Gems

April 19th, 2013

Your break away in one of our Lake District Cottages is important to us so we are always listening to our holiday makers about interesting things to do and see in and around the Keswick. Below we have listed some interesting places to visit recommended by our loyal customers.

Osprey Watch

If you love wildlife then a visit to Dodd Wood offers spectacular views of our Lake District Ospreys. These birds love their home here and you can see them flying in and out of their nests and also using Bassenthwaite Lake as their feeding ground. Dodd Wood is only 3 miles away from Keswick, and has special view points so you get the best sightings from your visit. There is plenty of parking here too, public conveniences and a tea room.

Uldale

Take a drive out to Uldale and stop for a peaceful lunch at the Snooty Fox Country Inn. Uldale is a lovely quiet village set in the stunning Northern Fells area of the lakes and is only 4 miles from Bassenthwaite Lake and 10 miles away from Kesswick. The Inn is conveniently located near popular cycle and walking routes and is famous for its real ales warm welcoming team.


The Puzzling Place

If you come across a sign for the  The Puzzling Place then you are in for a treat. The shop itself is full of brain teasers and gadgets to keep you amused but the real attraction is the rooms that defy gravity and offer amazing optical illusions. For £3 entry it is well worth a visit.

Dodd Park – The Old Sawmill Tearoom

The Old Sawmill Tearoom is set in a privileged position overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and is popular all year round with bird watchers, walkers, cyclists and locals. The tea room is renowned for homemade Cumbrian cooking, and among the favourites are hot dishes and cakes including, date slices, a large Cumberland sausage in a roll with apple sauce served with salad, Welsh rarebit muffin and warm gingerbread. On the doorstep are mountain bike trails, walking routes, and as it sits on the edge of the forest you can watch varied wildlife in their natural habitat.

Dock Tarn, Watendlath from Borrowdale

Head off in your walking boots with a picnic and enjoy lounging by the shores of Dock Tarn or Watendlath Tarn. The valleys around these two tarns offer great walking ground and easy access to High Crag and Great Crag with their amazing views. If you like lake walking this is for you.

Lakeland Cottages wishes you an enjoyable stay, and welcome any recommendations from our holiday makers.

 

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Keswick has one of the best UK Golf Courses!

April 17th, 2013

If you are a golf lover then our very own Keswick Golf Club offers you the very best hospitality and a breathtaking 18 hole golf course set out on Threlkeld Common. With unobstructed views of our Lakeland hills Skiddaw, Clough Head, and Blencathra, as golf courses go this has to be one of the most beautiful in England. Our self catering holiday homes are within easy reach and cater for large or small groups.

The Course

The 18 holes of stunning parkland offer challenges to all levels of golfer and even though it measures 6200 yards the fairways are tree lined and the par 71 has particular surprises. The facilities available for hire include golf carts, electric and push/pull trolleys and for practice and skill work a putting green, pitching greens, driving net and practice fairway are on site.

The Club House

After a testing day on the golf course the club house is a welcome relief offering quality bar and food services. Visitors are welcome here so even if you have non playing golf friends or family they can join you after your game and enjoy the delights of this setting and welcome hospitality. Snacks and meals are on the menu as is the famous Cumberland sausage baguette, so head for the patio and enjoy whatever you choose looking out at one of the best views the Lake District has to offer from a chair.

If your Lake District holiday includes a special celebration like a birthday or anniversary the Keswick Golf Clubhouse caters for your every need. The catering staff are fully trained to adhere to your individual requirements from buffets; waiter served sit down meals, afternoon tea, and can include special dietary needs. Music and decorations can be arranged and for those who wish to dance there is a superb dance floor area to enjoy.

Whatever you need the friendly staff are here to ensure you and your guests have the best time at great value for money.

 

 

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Exclusive Lake District Holiday Offers!

April 15th, 2013

Holiday Special Offers – Get 10% off any Booking from now Until 24th May 2013!

It’s not too late to book that much needed holiday in the Lake District and to celebrate spring surrounded by our wonderful scenery and hospitality we are offering you 10% off any holiday booking until May 24th 2013. With the Euro not showing much hope against the pound it makes perfect sense to take a break in this unique, stunning area of the UK.

We may not always have sunshine but we have catered for that! There are an abundance of Lake District attractions and things to do regardless of the weather. See our blog or Facebook page for all the latest up to date information!

See our last few remaining self catering cottages available for the May Day Bank Holiday Weekend!

Dodd Cottage Bassenthwaite

Here at Lakeland we are proud of Cumbria, our very own Lake District, as it never disappoints our visitors. We know why, and many of our customers who return know the secrets!

Whether you want a family escape, group action packed weekend, romantic break or simply need to get away, Lakeland cottages have your ideal holiday home. No need to worry about putting the dogs in kennels as we also have pet friendly accommodation plus we can point you in the right direction of amazing walks, and local traditional pubs and cafe’s that welcome your 4 legged friends. image

On our blog and Facebook page we will be keeping you up to date on what’s going on, where to go, what to do and what we believe are the highlights of Keswick and surrounding areas. All you have to do is like our Facebook page and you will receive notifications first hand.

We look forward to welcoming new Lakeland holiday makers and our loyal returning friends,

Kind regards

Lakeland Cottages

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Group Holidays in the Lake District

April 12th, 2013

Get a group of friends together and take advantage of our last remaining holiday cottages to rent over the May Bank Holiday weekend. The Coppice in Borrowdale sleeps 9, is dog friendly and is set in it’s own stunning grounds encircled by National Trust land, right in the heart of the Borrowdale fells. The interior of The Coppice retains all the original features from back in the early century and has a wonderful authentic atmosphere. This cottage is a true haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Borrowdale is a firm favourite among climbers, walkers, photographers, painters and those who just love being around lakes and mountains. Being close to Keswick attracts all age groups as this busy market town has something for everyone whether you enjoy wandering through art galleries, trying local homemade food from the many individual shops, or enjoying a hearty meal. Borrowdale is superbly situated at the side of Catbells one of the most popular fells for serious climbers and walkers. Most visitors to Catbells start by hopping on the ferry over to Hawse End as this leads to a picturesque woodland walk before heading up to the hills.

This walk is not suitable for non-walkers and the faint hearted. If you like a bit of a challenge and love stunning views then this is for you!

After a hard day on the fells food is for thought and also how to spend the evening. Nightlife near Borrowdale is mostly in Keswick as it offers superb restaurants, traditional real ale pubs, trendy bars like the Grove Bar, live music every night in Oddfellows, dancing in The Loft and a few late bars for the night owls out there.So whether you prefer some fine dining, pub grub, trendy bars or a spot of dancing, Keswick has it all. There is also a great bus and taxi service from Keswick so there is no need to drive.

If it’s lots of action you are after then there are plenty of chances to take to the lakes and try the variety of water sports on offer from wake boarding to wind surfing. Some lakes are also open to diving with opportunities to learn with qualified instructors if you do not have the right qualifications.

Group holidays in the Lake District are a great way to share some challenges with your friends and family, or do some team building while enjoying the vastness of this mythical land. Out cottages are all fully equipped with heating and all the usual home comforts. Each one has its own character so whatever your taste, we can accommodate you.

 

 

 

 

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Top Five Things to Do in the Lake District This Week!

April 9th, 2013

With the Easter holidays in their final week the Lakes still has a lot to offer the discerning traveller. If you are still here on holiday enjoying one of our beautiful cottages then you have time to catch some of the local events and activities happening this week.

Messing about on the Water

This Easter Lake Windermere is giving you the opportunity to try watersports and activities like windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing and sailing for just £10 per hour until Sunday 14th April. This is a great chance for anyone to try something new on the water at this amazing price.

Theatre

One event not to missed is the London smash hit comedy about a young women with a gun, a feminist writer and 3 men. The Theatre by the Lake (Keswick) is host to this fantastic show ‘The Female Species’ by Joanna Murray-Smith from 10th – 13th April.

Popular Live Music

There are some great gigs on at Bootleggers in Kendal. It’s about a 30 mile trip but well worth it! The gigs are mostly free every Thursday, Friday and Saturday with something to suit everyone.

Friday 12th Sees Hush return who are a 5 piece soft rock band playing all your favourites. On Friday 19th April Ulpha 500 grace the stage with their 4 piece band playing everything from the 1960’s to present day.

Family Fun Times

At Lake Maze Farm this Easter holidays there is fun for the whole family. No problem here whatever the weather as there are lots of fun indoors and outdoors activities to include go karts, tractor rides, trampolines, Easter egg hunts, farm animals up close, play areas, crafts, climbing practice walls with qualified instructors and lots more. Located at Raines Hall Farm Kendal.

Culture/Art

The worlds Wildlife Photography competition continues into its 49th year and returns to Penrith at the Rheged Centre. Just 100 Photographs are chosen from thousands of images taken by amateurs, professionals and there is now a children’s category. This is your chance to see some stunning photographic works first hand. The competition ends on June 23rd so plenty of time to pay a visit.

So apart from walking the fells, and enjoying the scenery, our Lake District has lots going on to ensure your visit is a memorable one. The local people put in an extreme effort every year to deliver some great events and exhibitions for all age groups, and taste so take advantage of their hospitality and goodwill.

 

 

 

 

 

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Pamper Days in the Lake District

April 8th, 2013

After a day out walking the fells, horse riding, doing an action packed activity or even conquering our beloved Skiddaw, what better way to treat yourselves than to have a relaxing spa pamper. Armathwaite Hall Country House is a state of the art spa destination and it is with in easy reach of our self catering accommodation. Armathwaite Hall is not only a stunning building dating back to the 11th century but it stands proudly by the edge of our beautiful Bassenthwaite Lake.

There is a wide choice of pamper packages depending on your choice, from body treatments using essential oils to facials and foot treatments. The spa staff will also tailor make a package just to suit you!

Imagine relaxing in the infinity pool, luxury sauna, and the out door hot tub overlooking the stunning landscaped gardens before retreating to the ‘hush room’ to finish off the experience.

You will be welcomed with complimentary refreshments, fluffy bath robes and slippers to start your holistic journey. Ease yourself into the heated pool and relax those aching legs and feet before beginning your pamper experience. You may even like to do a spot of yoga to unwind and return to your supple self.

The itinerary is down to you, so you can organise what ever you want and when you want it! The beauty of this spa experience is that the staff are not only highly qualified but they are there to help you organise your time so you get the most benefits. If you are on a girl’s weekend then one to try is the ‘Girls Evening in Holistic Heaven’.

The spa itself is like a haven, as soon as you set foot inside you will switch off and forget about the outside world…..it really is an experience not to be missed.

After a spa experience here at Armathwaite Hall you will head back to your Lakeland holiday home feeling on top of the world. My advice is to light the log fire, order a local takeaway, open a bottle of wine and simply chill out for the rest of the evening and finish off with a night cap looking at the stunning star formations in this special part of the UK.

 

 

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Romantic Breaks in the Lakes

April 6th, 2013

If you’re looking for a romantic break away this spring in the Lake District then Lakeland Cottages have the perfect place for you.

Duck Pool Cottage is a gorgeous property that has the benefit of being located by the River Greta, yet not far from the lovely town of Keswick and all it has to offer. The cottage has been renovated but has retained all its original 19th century features, but the best characteristic for that extra romantic touch is the log wood burner in the living room. This pretty riverside cottage has it all for that special romantic break.

Romantic Things to Do

You have the cottage so now you need to know what there is to do. Apart from the usual Lake District attractions Keswick offers two stunning parks, Hope Park and Fitz Park, for that peaceful stroll or a place to relax among the beautiful fauna and landscaped gardens. Pop into one of the many friendly food shops and treat yourselves to a picnic of fresh baked bread, a selection of fine cheeses, homemade paté, fresh fruit and a bottle of crisp Sauvignon.

Derwentwater is a must if you are visiting Keswick. Hop onto one of the wooden steamer boats and take a wonderful journey surrounded by some incredible scenery.

Browse and shop in the pedestrian friendly centre of town full of antique shops, art galleries, jewellery shops where are sure to find something unique.

Romantic dining is so easy here as the town is full of good quality restaurants. Luca’s rustic, Italian restaurant just by the Greta Bridge is ideal for those who appreciate fine wines and traditional Italian fare. The outside terrace has a lovely atmosphere at dusk as the lanterns glow and the delicious aromas fill the air.

Situated right by the shores of Derwentwater is the Dandelion Café, a stunning setting to enjoy their gorgeous menu, relax and soak up the beautiful surroundings.

Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake is set on Derwentwater and is the only professional theatre if its kind in Cumbria. Apart from the shows themselves, it offers great culinary delights so linger before a show or after a walk by the lake and enjoy afternoon tea, a glass of wine pre-show or a sumptuous 2 course meal.

Keswick really does offer everything for a romantic break and our Duck Pool cottage is the perfect place to start.

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Wildlife Walks in the Lake District

April 4th, 2013

One of the real joys of taking a cottage in the Lake District for holiday is the ability to chance upon wildlife in your walks. For many of those who live in the city, the sight of red deer in a meadow or wild osprey across the sky while on a wildlife walk can be breathtaking. There are many trails that can be walked at prime wildlife watching time – at dusk or dawn. This is when many animals are most active, so planning your schedule to include walks at this time can be very rewarding.

Along the Waterways

Because there are rivers and streams, not to mention lakes, everywhere you can see many kinds of animals that live at the water’s edge. Ducks and geese are plentiful and if you are lucky you may see deer coming down to drink at dawn.

An unexpected pleasure is the river otters, who have returned in stronger numbers to many of the local rivers. They are playful creatures and if you are lucky enough to come upon a family of otters, they are endlessly amusing.

 

Bird Watchers Paradise

One of the real treats for anyone who is a true “birder” is the dawn walk. Many love to call it “The Chorus Walk” because of the sheer number of birds greeting the day. Spring is also a great time to see Cedar Waxwings near Grange-over-Sands and many of the lakes will have the majestic Great White Egret.

Coastal marshes yield everything from the colourful goldfinches and greenfinches to reed-buntings and skylarks. The return of Spartina Grasses in this area is bringing back many of these birds with its plentiful seeds to feed them and stalks to hide amongst.

Of course, many birders have begun to come out to the Lake District to watch the Peregrine Falcons soaring amongst the mountain updrafts. A rare Golden Eagle returns each year to Haweswater, and attempts are being made to entice a few more down from Scotland.

The successful return of Osprey to the area has everyone smiling wider, after seeing them become extinct as a breeding species in the rest of England. These are just a handful of the birds you will see, many from the front door of your Lake District farmhouse on just about any morning.

The Meadows Hidden Treasures

One of the surprises for many newcomers to the Lake District is the many meadows that dot our trails.  Areas of wet heath can yield to flower-strewn meadows with deer and many small creatures. Always charming are the native red squirrels with their cheery greeting and long luxurious tails. Of course, it wouldn’t be an English countryside without a badger to waddle into the scene.

There are so many wonderful opportunities for seeing wildlife in the Lake District that you will need your afternoon naps just to recover. Evening walks reveal a plentiful number of owls, of many different species. You can be on a peaceful walk back from the local pub when you spot the silent glide of an owl on the hunt. It is a sight to behold.

So come out to the Lake District and spend some time on our trails spotting some wildlife. Take along your binoculars and leave yourself some time to visit a pub or two along the way. When you stay at one of our many fine Lakeland Cottages you will find that taking a holiday in our village is like being a part of a big family. Sharing your stories of what wildlife was spotted is just part of the fun.

 

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