hawkshead with grizedale...

A landscape of undulating farmland, mixed woodlands and small tarns, interspersed with traditional Lakeland farmhouses and cottages.

The multitude of public rights of way, quiet lanes and forest tracks are ideal for walking, cycling and riding and generally

getting away from the crowds. Further south, the extensive coniferous plantations of Grizedale provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

About the area

History & heritage

Hawkshead derives its name from Hawkr's saeter (or summer pasture) - a Norse settlement founded in an area of summer grazing for sheep and cattle.
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Art & culture

Discover the life and work of Beatrix Potter while in Hawkshead and unearth cultural gems in the surrounding towns and villages.

Natural environment

A stones throw away from Hawkshead are the tranquil waters of Esthwaite and views offered from the pinnacle of Latterbarrow.

What's on

From local bell ringing and craft fairs taking place weekly to the Grizedale mountain bike challenge there is something for everyone.
hawkshead what's on

Oddities

The Drunken Duck Inn

The Drunken Duck Inn apparently received its name after beer accidentally drained into a ditch that the local ducks frequented. The ducks lapped up the alcohol and passed into a lifeless stupor. The landlady, thinking they were dead, set about plucking them ready for the oven but soon realised what had happened. The ducks were reprieved from being roasted and given knitted jerseys and kilts to wear until their feathers grew back.

Elephant shoe

An elephant shoe known as Haaksid's Girt Clog was specially made for John Waterson, the local molecatcher, who contracted a form of elephantiasis that greatly enlarged his left foot. The shoe, measuring 20 inches (50 cm) long and 16 inches (40 cm) wide, is on view inside the Queen's Head Hotel in Hawkshead.

Seed whigs

Hawkshead was well known for two baking specialities: Seed Whigs and Hawkshead Cakes. Seed Whigs were oblong-shaped tea cakes flavoured with caraway seeds. Hawkshead Cakes were pastries filled with currants, sugar and butter.