Why Cumbria?
Here I am, thinking about our beautiful country. We all say how lucky we are to live here and just how beautiful it is and how much we just don’t see. I think i have landed on one of the most beautiful areas in the world!
I admit it, I have not gone much further than Windemere, in the past. So lets see what else there is to do.... lets start with Rydal Mount this is where William Wordsworth properly laid his hat, in the postcard-pretty little village of Ambleside.
The late Romantic poet was born in Cumbria and left his mark all over the Lake District. As a young man he moved around various spots in Grasmere before finally settling in Ambleside in 1813, where he lived until his death in 1850. While the poet’s childhood home in Cockermouth is pegged as the Wordsworth abode to visit, this quaint sixteenth-century cottage known as Rydal Mount offers a different view of the man. Wander the stunning gardens that Wordsworth landscaped himself, peek inside his ‘writing hut’ and attic study, see his personal possessions and browse his library.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Now, I love this as I just adore a bit of intrigue ... A fascinatingly collection of boulders that dates back to the Neolithic period, putting it on an equal footing with Stonehenge. I am sure you know I like to take myself for a short walk. Castlerigg doesn't let me down. From the centre of Keswick it’ll take you roughly half an hour to walk to the circle. Look out for grazing sheep while you're at it: they roam freely around the stone circle. If you’re after something free and family or dog-friendly, this is a good option. Plus, the Stone Circle has a solar alignment, so head along for summer solstice – it’s one of the more tranquil midsummer celebrations. So, what next for my journey around Cumbria? How about Honister Slate Mine ......
The last working mine in England, and the producer of green slate extracted from Fleetwith Pike. I would enjoy the the relatively gentle tour through the underground mine shafts but for the Adrenalin Junkies you can scale the side and inside of a mountain, as well as crossing a terrifying infinity bridge, you have plenty to keep you occupied here. I don't usually do this but ... here's another picture from .Honister Slate Mine.. not really for me!
Fun fact: Honister is also home to the highest café in the National Park. Make a beeline for a surprisingly good souvenirs shop, too – it sells stuff a step above the usual overpriced tat. Although, I do love any sort of tat ..... Now for my spiritual reflection, I am thinking Scafell Pike
Beyond beautiful! A journey to its summit and back will likely leave you with blisters and wind or rain-blasted skin. But you’ll also get a stunning view of the National Park and an enormous sense of smugness. Ticking of 2 of my favourite pass-times; walking and spiritual reflection in peaceful and beautiful places. Just make sure you prepare properly! That means checking the mountain forecast and getting the right gear (primarily, decent footwear). Sure it’s fun, but it's also a pretty chunky undertaking.
You have seen some of what this beautiful part of the county has to offer! Why not contact me to discuss work opportunities. Message or call me on 07484 906 671