It may be the poetic and literary heart of the Lake District, but it also occupies an outstanding location at the very hub of the region. Along with basking in the glory of sumptuous scenery, a holiday here is full of possibilities to keep you and your party entertained. There are a host of all-year-round attractions close by, and endless outstanding walking, climbing and cycling routes. Look out, too, for annual events and things to do in Grasmere such as Grasmere Sports, the Rushbearing ceremony centred on St. Oswald’s church, and the Grasmere Guzzler beer festival. For relaxation, cafes and tearooms, gift shops and art galleries are dotted pleasingly along the romantic streets of this most well-loved of Lake District villages. There are also beautiful Grasmere walks.
The warm, welcoming scent of homemade gingerbread drifts through Grasmere village centre. It draws you to the little shop near the church. The gingerbread itself is unique, prepared according to a closely-guarded local recipe. The tiny shop offers many other homemade gifts. No visit to Grasmere is fully satisfying without a visit here.
Dove Cottage was William Wordsworth’s first family home, which he shared with his sister Dorothy. The house has been wonderfully preserved. Along with the adjacent Wordsworth Museum, it gives an unparalleled insight into the great poet’s life. Various talks, walks, and mini-festivals are organised here. Do be sure to visit the excellent Dove Cottage Tearooms, too. – https://wordsworth.org.uk/home.html
You should pay a visit to the rustic, centuries old church sitting by the river in Grasmere’s village centre. In the churchyard are William and Dorothy Wordsworth’s graves. A shrine for those with literary interests, and nearby is the Daffodil Garden, planted in honour of the poet.
Browse for gifts, clothing, and garden essentials at this lovely garden centre. It is set in the middle of the village, and take some tea at the Potting Shed Cafe. – http://www.grasmeregardens.com
A little way along the Red Bank Road towards Langdale nestles this picturesque little tearoom. Their gardens must be some of the most perfectly situated in the country for sunny days, right by the shores of tranquil Grasmere lake. The range of teas are pleasing, and often includes such intriguing beverages as Russian Caravan Tea or Organic Khartoum Hibiscus Tea. You can sit with a brew or an ice-cream and bask in the beautiful scenery. Or go and explore it by taking a rowing boat out on the lake.
William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy moved to this house overlooking Grasmere lake in 1808. It is now owned by the National Trust, and was also once home to its founder, Canon Rawnsley. It is well worth adding to your itinerary when planning what to do in Grasmere. There are many activities available here for children.
Taffy Thomas is a well-known local story-teller. His story-telling garden will enchant children. Events are occasional or by request, so use the link below to find out more. Located opposite St. Oswald’s church. – http://www.taffythomas.co.uk/frame1.html
There are several excellent art shops, craft shops, and galleries in Grasmere. As the area is a rich source of inspiration for painters as well as poets. The Heaton Cooper Gallery is at the top of the list, and showcases the work of local artists, whilst also selling art materials. There is an annual Lakes Artists Society exhibition between July and September in Grasmere, also showing at Easter.
There is a National Trust shop and information centre near the Gingerbread Shop to help you decide what to do in Grasmere.
Grasmere has a range of shops including a Co-op on Broadgate, and an excellent bakers in Red Lion Square in the town centre.
There is a Health Centre in nearby Ambleside on Rydal Road, and a branch of this operates on a part-time basis in Grasmere village at Fieldfoot. – http://www.amblesidegrouppractice.co.uk
The nearest filling station is on Lake Road in Ambleside.
The main pay and display car parks can be found at Broadgate Meadow off Broadgate near the village park, Stock Lane as you enter Grasmere from the Ambleside direction. And Red Bank Road heading out of the village towards Elterwater and Langdale. Parking in the village itself is time-limited according to roadside signs. Though you can find some unrestricted parking, especially in the lay-bys on the A591.
Grasmere enjoys a central location, and may claim to be the true heart of the Lake District. As such, it is a great base from which to explore the varied delights of the National Park.
Going north, Thirlmere reservoir is just over Dunmail Raise, the steep pass above Grasmere vale, named after a historic battle. You may also wish to take the Red Bank Road east of Grasmere to Elterwater and Langdale, and some of the prettiest scenery in the Lake District.
If you are coming to the Lakes by car, motorway travellers from the south should leave the M6 at Junction 36, while those arriving from the north can take the exit at Junction 40 by Penrith. Grasmere is easy to reach by public transport using the London Euston to Glasgow line. Travel to Oxenholme station by Kendal, and from there take the branch line to Windermere station. A short bus journey will then bring you through Ambleside and on to Grasmere. Blackpool, Liverpool, and Manchester are the nearest charter airports.
Bus routes in the Lake District can be viewed using the following link: http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/roads-transport/public-transport-road-safety/transport/publictransport/busserv/busservmap.asp