from witches to poets, our cultural heritage is as diverse as it is fascinating
The stunning Cumbrian landscape isn’t just a natural phenomenon.
There is also a social landscape to explore that has been formed over thousands of years and continues to be shaped by modern culture. From poignant ruins and drover trails to local legends and literary works, the region's history and heritage has played a defining role in the county's identity. But in recent years, another dimension has been added to Cumbria's unique personality in the form of contemporary theatre and dance, street art and state of the art galleries .
Local Legends
Long Meg and her Daughters. The stone circle at Little Salkeld is believed to be witches turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath. If anyone can count the same number of stones twice, they’ll be set free from the curse.
The Licking Stones. At Carlisle Castle, parched Jacobite prisoners would lick the rock wall of the dungeon trying to get enough moisture to stay alive.
The Fairy Steps. A tiny set of stairs at Beetham, too small for human use, are believed to have been designed for fairies.
The Tizzie-Wizzie. A creature; part hedgehog, part squirrel, part bumblebee has been reported on and off for over 100 years around Lake Windermere.
Devil’s Bridge near Kirkby Lonsdale . A woman who was separated from her cow by the river Lune is believed to have made a pact with the devil. He would make a bridge across the river in return for the first living thing to cross the bridge.
Whether you want to delve into our deep, sometimes dark past or simply enjoy some stunning surroundings, there’s plenty of local culture to keep you interested.
Gardens
Cumbria is lucky to have many historic houses that are home to magnificent gardens, some world famous, as well as award-winning gardens in their own right that have been lovingly pruned and tended over the years, including Holker Hall , Cark-in-Cartmel; Levens Hall , Levens; Acorn Bank , near Penrith; Holehird , Windermere
Beatrix Potter
Discover more about Beatrix and the landscape that inspired her. Visit her house Hill Top , at Near Sawrey, see all 23 of her famous characters brought to life at the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere or call in at the Armitt in Ambleside which houses over 400 of her watercolours. You can follow the literary trail even further and stay at Yew Tree Farm , in the Yewdale valley once owned by Beatrix.
