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Our #CulturalConcierge knows all about the best & most inspiring arts, performance, literature & festivals here in the beautiful Lake District. We’ve asked her to curate ideas for you to explore these stunning World Heritage landscapes.

The #CulturalConcierge has spent her career promoting Cumbria as a leading rural cultural destination.  She knows all about our quirky and interesting places and will be your guide as we discover some quieter, less-visited hidden gems.

‘Thinking of a winter break in the Lake District? Just wrap up warm and head outside for the sights, smells and sounds of winter in the beautiful Grizedale Forest.’

‘I recommend that you combine your walk with some contemporary art and a little forest bathing! The ancient Japanese practice of relaxation; know in Japan as shinrin yoku is a simplistic way of calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature (and in this case, the sculpture) around you whilst breathing deeply can help you to de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.’

You’ll have plenty of room with over 4000 hectares of forest and woodlands to explore and you can discover contemporary art sculptures by as the likes of Andy Goldsworthy and David Nash.

‘There are lots to choose from, but if you’re stuck for time on a short winter’s day, I’d make a beeline for RUUP by Birgit Õigus – a co-commission between Forestry Commission England and Lakes Alive Festival. It’s a crazy 3 large wooden megaphone-like structure, sited just above the Silurian way on the path towards Carron Crag summit.  (you can grab directions at the Visitor Centre) It’s designed to amplify the sounds of the forest, so you can sit or stand inside them and do your forest bathing undercover!’

 

RUUP by Bright Õigus – Grizedale Forest