Let’s go exploring

We love Hawkshead – and not just because it’s our home. It’s a proper stunner of a place, surrounded by swoon-worthy scenery, storybook history, and enough fresh air to make your lungs throw a party. Here are six spots we think you’ll absolutely love.

Tarn Hows

Tarn Hows

2 miles away

A gentle walk with jaw-dropping views. Tarn Hows is one of those places that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard it’s super easy to get to from Hawkshead. Perfect for a lazy wander or a wholesome picnic with a view.

Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest

2.5 miles away

Forest trails, sculptures peeking out from behind the trees, and even a Go Ape course if you fancy swinging from the treetops. Walk it or bike it, there's plenty to do at Grizedale.

Hill Top – Beatrix Potter’s House

Hill Top – Beatrix Potter’s House

2.5 miles away

She wrote tales of cheeky rabbits and grumpy ducks – now you can peek inside the house where the magic happened. It’s like stepping into a Beatrix Potter book.

Windermere & Ambleside

Windermere & Ambleside

9 miles away

Windermere town is popular with tourists owing to its proximity to the lake and local scenery. Boats from Bowness-on-Windermere are popular and call at Ambleside. Ambleside is a hub for outdoor activities like walking, climbing and water sports. It also has the iconic Bridge House as well as shops, cafes and restaurants.

Esthwaite Water

Esthwaite Water

1 mile away

Esthwaite Water is one of the smaller lesser-known lakes in the Lake District National Park. Situated in between Windermere and Coniston our village of Hawkshead lies at the very tip. It is well-known for its fishing and osprey.

Wray Castle

Wray Castle

3 miles away

Wray Castle is a Victorian neo-gothic building at Claife about 3 miles from Hawkshead. It is a National Trust property on the shoreline of Lake Windermere. The castle is closed for refurbishment until 2027 but the grounds are definitely worth a visit.