Browsing local shops within 8 miles of Nibthwaite Grange Cottage 

Main Street, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0NS, (7 miles, 12kms), Tel: 015394 36269, Email, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beatrixpottergallery

This charming 17th century building, which served as the office of Beatrix Potter's solicitor husband, now houses an annually changing exhibition of Potter's original artwork.

Cark in Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7PL, (8 miles, 12kms), Tel: 015395 58328, Email, www.holker.co.uk

Family home to the Cavendish's, Victorian wing, glorious gardens and parkland, woodlands, food hall, gift shop and courtyard cafe.

Near Sawrey, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0LF, (6 miles, 10kms), Tel: 015394 36269, Email, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hilltop

Beatrix Potter's small cottage, full of her personal possessions, with traditional cottage garden. Her paintings of the House and garden were used to illustrate many of her tales.

Low Newton, Newton-in-Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 6JP, (8 miles, 12kms), Tel: 015395 31498, Email, www.yewtreebarn.co.uk

The perfect place to find design-led crafts, jewellery, art, ceramics, furniture, accessories, cards and gifts. Featuring quality makers and designers, many from Cumbria.

2 The Square, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0NZ, (7 miles, 12kms), Tel: 015394 36614, Email, www.hawksheadrelish.com

Home of the award-winning makers of relishes, pickles and preserves. There are over 100 hand-made products available to taste before you buy. Hampers made up whilst you wait.

A5087 Coast Road, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 9QQ, (8 miles, 12kms), Tel: 01229 584029, Email, www.manjushri.org

Superb example of a romantic Gothic mansion with unique Kadampa Buddhist Temple dedicated to World Peace. Fascinating 1-hour guided tour of the house and Temple brings alive the history of the Priory since 1160. Beautiful woodland gardens.

The Boathouse, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0QF, (6 miles, 10kms), Tel: 015394 36541, Email, www.hawksheadtrout.com

Esthwaite Water is the largest stocked lake in the North West of England, offering renowned top of the water action in true loch style, set amidst breathtaking scenery. Tuition available. Tackle shop onsite.

The Grizedale Centre, Grizedale, Hawkshead, Cumbria, LA22 0QJ, (4 miles, 7kms), Tel: 01229 860396, Email, www.grizedalemountainbikes.co.uk

Mountain bike hire centre based in Grizedale Forest.

Lake Windermere, Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8AT, (5 miles, 8kms), Tel: 015395 30001, Email, www.lakesidehotel.co.uk/SpecialOccasions_Weddings.htm

Lakeside Hotel, possibly the finest four star hotel in the Lake District has a spectacular location on the shores of Lake Windermere.

The Pharmacy Main Street, Hawkshead, Cumbria, LA22 0NS, (7 miles, 12kms), Tel: 015394 36201

Collins & Butterworth is an independent Pharmacy in the heart of the Lake District. Based in the honey pot village of Hawkshead, it provides a range of medical advice and support.