Hawkshead has flourished since its beginnings as a medieval market town. Today, with its car-free village centre, it's the perfect place for the visitor to experience the 'real' Lake District. The cobbled streets, squares and courtyards and the beautiful whitewashed cottages, topped with local Lakeland slate, give this little place a magical feel.
The village is steeped in history and heritage, from the ruins of Hawkshead Hall (built by medieval monks) and the 15th-century St Michael's parish church and court house, to later buildings such as the grammar school (1855) which the poet William Wordsworth attended. There is also a Beatrix Potter gallery – Hawkshead is only 3.2 km from Hill Top at Near Sawrey where the author wrote many of her books. Keen shoppers will find a range of goods for sale, from souvenirs to climbing and walking paraphernalia.
The surrounding scenery is some of the finest in the Lake District with Grizedale Forest to the south, Lake Windermere to the east and Lake Coniston to the west, as well as the fine moorland encircling much of the area around Hawkshead.
Must see and do
- Grizedale Forest Park & Visitor Centre, Hawkshead
- Hawkshead Grammar School Museum, Hawkshead
- Beatrix Potter Gallery, Hawkshead