heritage of hawkshead...
Parish Church of St Michael and All Angels
The church, built on an elevated site to the south-west of the village, commands far-reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Inside, the walls and pillars are adorned with bibilical texts. An old chest made from a massive oak beam once stored the parish registry documents. The Sandys Chapel was added by Edwin Sandys, Archbishop of York (1577-1588).
Old Grammar School
The school, founded by Archbishop Edward Sandys in 1585, had a good reputation for teaching Latin, Greek and mathematics. One of its pupils was William Wordsworth who attended from 1779 to 1787 with his brother, Richard. Intriguingly, one of the original desks is inscribed with the name ‘W Wordsworth' www.hawksheadgrammarschool.org.uk
Old Courthouse
This 15th century courthouse over an arched gateway is all that remains of the manorial buildings that once belonged to Furness Abbey. Here the villagers would come to pay their rents and tithes, and wrongdoers would be tried and punished (or acquitted). For more serious crimes, offenders were sent to the gallows on a nearby hill. Free admission but access is by key from the National Trust shop in Hawkshead
Hill Top
Step into the world of Beatrix Potter in this 17th century farmhouse, which provided the inspiration for 8 of her books including The Tale of Tom Kitten and The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck. It remains much the same as when she lived here, with many of her paintings, furniture and china on view. read more
''intriguingly, one of the original desks is inscribed with the name 'w wordsworth'''
Wray Castle
Imposing mock Gothic castle built by James Dawson in the 1840s, using money from his wife's inheritance. Beatrix Potter stayed here in 1882 whilst on holiday with her parents. Grounds open all year round. read more
Hawkshead Hill Baptist Church
This simple whitewashed building has represented the faith of Christian Baptists since the 18th century. Baptists believe that immersion in water represents relinquishment of an old way of life for a new one of belief in Jesus Christ. In the 17th century Baptists refused to conform to the Church of England faith and were often persecuted for their beliefs, hence their places of worship were often located in out-of-the-way places. Behind the church is a small graveyard and just beyond that is an outdoor baptistry (last used in 1991); one of only two in Cumbria.
Quaker Meeting House
During the 17th century, Quakers were often persecuted for their non-conformist beliefs. This led them to gather in obscure places such as at Colthouse, where the Meeting House can be found on a narrow back lane in the small hamlet. Nearby is a walled Quaker cemetery.
Methodist Chapel
Tucked away in a corner next to the King's Arms is this unassuming simple chapel that can be visited for quiet contemplation.
