Grasmere

Grasmere is perhaps best known as the home of William Wordsworth, a place he once described as "The most loveliest spot that man hath found." Set alongside Grasmere Lake, Grasmere is shrouded by a panorama of fells and mountains that provide the atmosphere so beloved of Wordsworth and the Romantic poets. Old cottages, faced with pebbledash, and houses of bluish-green local slate vie for attention along the twisty streets of the village. Victorian villas sit comfortably beside hotels, galleries and shops catering to tourists. The local church of St. Oswald's, in the centre of Grasmere, has a history stretching from the 13thC, and is the final resting place of William Wordsworth. Wordsworth's memory is heavy throughout Grasmere with his former home, Dove Cottage being one of the most popular attractions in Grasmere along with a museum dedicated to Wordsworth. Wordsworth's later dwelling at nearby Rydal Mount can also be visited. Gingerbread lovers are strongly recommended to stop for a treat at the famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop near the church!