Hawkshead Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Hawkshead, Cumbria, England. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hawkshead

Nestled in the heart of Cumbria, in North West England, Hawkshead is a picturesque village that offers visitors a quintessential English countryside experience. From historical buildings to scenic walks, Hawkshead has a lot to offer visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Hawkshead

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Start your tour of Hawkshead by visiting its culturally important attractions, including museums and historical buildings. The Beatrix Potter Gallery and the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum are both worth a visit. The former is a 17th-century building that originally served as a solicitor’s office, but now houses a collection of Beatrix Potter’s original illustrations and letters. The latter, a 16th-century building, was home to a grammar school that poet William Wordsworth attended in the late 18th century.

Natural Attractions of Hawkshead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Next, visit the natural attractions that Hawkshead has to offer. Take a walk to Tarn Hows, a beautiful lake surrounded by dense forests, or hike up Latterbarrow Hill for stunning panoramic views of the Lake District. You can also explore Grizedale Forest, which offers a range of outdoor activities, such as cycling and horse riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hawkshead

Hawkshead is a hiker’s paradise with an abundance of scenic trails to explore. The Tarn Hows and Claife Heights Circular walk is a great option for beginners, while more experienced hikers can try the challenging Fairfield Horseshoe walk. The hills and valleys around Hawkshead also offer great opportunities for mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Hawkshead: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Hawkshead. You can take a boat ride on Lake Windermere, go fishing in the nearby streams, or visit the nearby Dove Cottage, where Wordsworth lived for many years.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hawkshead

Day 1: Arrive in Hawkshead and explore the village.

Day 2: Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery and Hawkshead Grammar School Museum.

Day 3: Hike up Latterbarrow Hill for stunning panoramic views.

Day 4: Explore Grizedale Forest and enjoy outdoor activities.

Day 5: Take a boat ride on Lake Windermere.

Day 6: Visit Dove Cottage, the home of William Wordsworth.

Day 7: Relax in Hawkshead and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Food and Drink Scene of Hawkshead

Must-Try Dishes

Hawkshead has a great food and drink scene with a variety of restaurants and pubs to choose from. Be sure to try the local Cumbrian lamb and Cumberland sausage, both of which are famous for their taste.

Local Beverages

Hawkshead Brewery is a must-visit for beer lovers. They brew a range of traditional and experimental beers that you can enjoy at their taproom. Hawkshead also has a great gin scene, with The Lakes Distillery producing award-winning gins that you can taste and purchase.

Where to Stay in Hawkshead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Hawkshead, including traditional bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, hotels, and hostels. The Queens Head Inn and the Sun Inn are two popular options for those looking for a cozy pub atmosphere.

What to Buy in Hawkshead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hawkshead has a vibrant local arts and crafts scene, and you can find beautiful handmade pottery, artisanal cheeses, and locally-made jams and chutneys at the many shops and markets in the village. Souvenir hunters should look for items that feature Beatrix Potter’s illustrations or the logos of the local breweries and distilleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Hawkshead

Hawkshead is a small village, and locals place great importance on community involvement. You will often find them coming together for events such as the Hawkshead Christmas Fair, which is held every year.

Best Time to Visit Hawkshead

Summer, from June to August, is the best time to visit Hawkshead as the weather is warm and sunny, and all the outdoor attractions are open. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and book your accommodation in advance. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit because the crowds are fewer, and the weather is still mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hawkshead

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take care of the natural surroundings and avoid littering.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Trespass on private property.
  • Be loud and disruptive in the residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hawkshead

Hawkshead is a safe village, and crime rates are low. However, it is necessary to take precautions like you would in any other place. Be vigilant, especially at night, and keep valuable items secure.

Health in Hawkshead

Hawkshead has a medical center and a pharmacy that can help with minor medical issues. In case of a medical emergency, call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.

Getting to Hawkshead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hawkshead

The nearest airports to Hawkshead are Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, both of which are about 90 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Hawkshead

The nearest major bus station is in Windermere, from where you can take a local bus to Hawkshead.

Other Options

If you are driving, you can reach Hawkshead using the M6 motorway. The village also has a small car park where you can park your car.

How to Get Around in Hawkshead

Hawkshead is a small village, and you can easily walk around to explore the attractions. You can also rent a bike if you want to cover more ground. Local buses and taxis are also available if you need them.

Where to Go Next from Hawkshead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hawkshead is a great base for exploring the Lake District. You can visit nearby towns like Ambleside and Windermere or explore the hills and valleys of the Lake District National Park.

Conclusion

Hawkshead is a charming village that offers visitors an enchanting countryside experience. From historical buildings to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in Hawkshead. Use this guide to plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to this beautiful part of England.

View of Hawkshead View of Hawkshead