AUTUMN IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Lakes magazine
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L A K E LOV E R S .CO.U K
Kelly Hall Tarn
View from Catbells
Grasmere Honister Pass
Derwent Water
Loughrigg Tarn
Contents
Thank you
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Our favourite colour is autumn
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Things to do - Autumn itinerary
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Embrace the Mystery of Cumbria’s Stone Circles
Welcome to another autumn in the Lake District. It’s time to recharge our batteries and take time for peaceful reflection, for quieter moments, walks, comfort food and being in nature.
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The New Collection
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Ask the Expert: Anouska Lancaster
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Landower House
With thanks to:
Anouska Lancaster
Jeanette Edgar cultural concierge
Ben Bush Photography benbush.photos
Joanna Bailey content and design
Chris Fletcher Photography
Simon Rogan simonrogan.co.uk
noushkadesign.com
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Village Guide - Ulverston
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Golf in the Lakes
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The Carus Green Collection
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Meet the Whisky Maker: Dhavall Gandhi
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Simon Rogan’s Damson Chocolate Fondant
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Gummer’s How Walk Guide
lakesdistillery.com
@scottwinstanleyart @that_other_place
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The Rural Cottage Collection
Shed 1 Gin
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Village Guide - Staveley
Jane Watson editorial
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Gone Fishing with Scott Winstanley
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The North Lakes Collection
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Arrowfield House
cpf-photoart.com
Dhavall Gandhi
Scott Winstanley
Shed1distillery.com
Proud to be a member of Cumbria Tourism 3
Slater’s Bridge, Little Langdale
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Lake Windermere from Ambleside
O U R FAV O U R I T E CO L O U R I S
A U T U M N The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go. 2020 has been a year we’ll never forget, with so much uncertainty, sadness and challenges. One thing this year has shown us all is how important the outdoors and nature is to our well-being, mental and physical.
As we head into Autumn, it’s time to recharge our batteries and take time for peaceful reflection, for quieter moments, walks, comfort food and being in nature.
The leaves on the ground get to work as mulch; as a haven for wildlife and putting goodness back into the ground below. As well as offering us that delightful pastime of walking, crunching and kicking our way through the autumn leaves.
Autumn in the Lakes is a magical time, of amazing colour – both in the trees, the skies, the sunsets and the reflections. A time for indulgent comfort food, woolly jumpers, comfy boots, gentle walks, or exhilarating hikes.
Autumn may be a time for reflection for us, but it’s the start of a busy time of year for our farmers, as the harvest is brought in, lambs and calves are weaned; cattle are brought down from the higher ground; tup sales take place and mating begins. The hardy Herdwick sheep remain up on the fells in their natural habitat. Spare a thought for our farming families, busy looking after the livestock here, as well as many physical autumn jobs, such as hedge-trimming, sorting silage and getting all the farm buildings secure before the winter weather arrives.
It’s that time of year when we humans wax lyrical and get all poetic about the mellow fruitfulness of autumn and the gorgeous red and gold foliage that really lifts our spirits. Meanwhile, the magical tree world is actually quietly going through its own annual method of self-protection. It’s now time for the vivid greens of spring and summer to take a back seat. Cooler weather starts the process of hormone changes in the trees, stopping chlorophyll production, and it’s the turn of the amazing reds, golds and yellows to be the star of the show, before the trees ‘hunker down’ and go into hibernation over winter, ready for a lovely fresh start in the Spring.
Whether you’ve got a busy autumn ahead of you, or are planning a bit of downtime, we hope this season’s magazine helps to transport you for a while to somewhere a little bit magical.
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Things to do
Left : Birdoswald Roman Fort | Top right : Holehird Gardens | Bottom right : ‘Sense of here’ Grizedale Forest
This itinerary will guide you through autumn in the Lake District.
As the season changes our minds move to making the most of the shorter days and planning our autumn escapes. Let our #CulturalConcierge inspire you and show you how easy it is to find some hidden heritage and some amazing places away from the popular honey pots. Here are my recommendations for some heritage attractions and gardens that would be delighted to see you, where you will find peace and tranquillity or a riot of colour if you need a bit more excitement. Please note some visits may need pre-booking. How about a Hadrian’s Wall Roman adventure at Birdoswald Roman Fort. Beautiful in the autumn sunshine where the remains of the Wall casts long shadows. Stand in awe as the longest remaining stretch of the Wall spans as far as your eye can see. Take a slow walk as many Roman soldiers would have done between fort, turret and milecastle. Find out more about life on a Roman frontier with the fabulous exhibition in the visitor
centre – where you can also indulge in 21st century refreshments. Pull on your walking boots and seek out one of the county’s lesser-known galleries. In a cool contemporary space in Grizedale Forest, from 1 October you can see ‘Sense of Here’, an exhibition of photographs, poetry, installations and creative maps offer reflections on the National Park and the issues facing our natural world. Then spend some time with your own reflections in some forest bathing - or shinrin-yoku, which simply means spending time outdoors under the canopy of trees. And finally, to prove you don’t need to go far to get off the beaten track, a garden I visit very regularly as I pass
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through one of our popular tourist’s spots. Just minutes off the main road away from the bustle of Windermere are the peaceful Holehird Gardens. The autumn borders present their annual firework display of rich colours which are only enhanced by the changing colours and shapes in the surrounding landscape. You can have a real Lakeland experience from the peace of the walled garden - a true haven in one of the Lake District’s most popular areas. Be adventurous, find your own special place, make memories and enjoy this fruitful season. I have to confess, there is something quite satisfying about finding these special places at this mellow time of year.
Embrace the mystery of Cumbria’s
STONE CIRCLES The mist clears on the fell and in the distance is the stone circle. You shiver slightly as you imagine what may have taken place here over the centuries, and the human lives that have been touched by this bewitching gathering place. You can feel the haunting spirit here, souls and ghosts from down the ages, and in the stillness you may imagine you catch sight of a shadowy figure moving between the stones.
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What is it about the mystery of a stone circle that draws us in? This unexplained connection down the years with our ancestors, meeting places or ancient rituals. When you step into one, let go of your 21st century logical brain, and be transported to a mysterious time gone by, listen to the power of the wind and nature all around you. Drink in the atmosphere and wonder about the meaning of them and how many human feet trod this place before you. Each circle is different, but they all hold an unexplainable mystery and an eeriness that we don’t quite understand. In this world of social media, science and clarity about almost everything in our world, spend a moment embracing the unexplainable. We are lucky enough to have over 50 stone circles in Cumbria, including some of the earliest stone circles in Britain. Explore our top three.
CASTLERIGG
Andromeda, Castlerigg and the Milky Way Ben Bush Photography
Located in a mystical setting above Keswick, and below Blencathra with 360-degree views of the surrounding majestic fells, is one of the most well known and oldest circles in Britain - at a stunning 4,500 years old. There are 38 stones, and a further 10 stones forming a small rectangle known as the Sanctuary, inside the circle. Legend has it that Castlerigg was used in Neolithic times as a place for the exchange of axes produced nearby; it is thought that some kind of ritual was used to ensure a safe exchange. Castlerigg has other mysteries too as the stones are aligned to catch sunsets and movement of the stars and planets. Why? We don’t know.
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LONG MEG AND HER DAUGHTERS
In the haunting beauty of the Eden Valley sits one of the largest and earliest stone circles in Britain, dating from late Neolithic or early bronze age. The circle (the Daughters) is made up of 69 glacial stones, with Long Meg herself, a piece of red sandstone standing at 3.8m high. She has also been carved with rings, cups, grooves and concentric circles. Not much is known about what they mean or when they were carved. If you stand in the centre of the circle, Long Meg aligns with the midwinter sunset. Close by you’ll find Little Meg and Glassonby, both featuring mysterious carved stones.
BIRKRIGG
The Druid’s had an eye for location when they chose this site. It’s one of our favourites because of the breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. It sits on the south east of Birkrigg Common, overlooking Bardsea Village, out to Morecambe Bay with sweeping sands and tides in the distance.
tumuli can be found on the Common. It consists of two roughly concentric stone rings, of which there are only about 30 in the UK, the best example of course being Stonehenge. Most of these magical places were built by farming communities in the Neolithic era or in the early Bronze Age. In Cumbria particularly many of the circles are on high ground, with clear sight and views all around, perhaps to worship the sun, moon and stars.
It seems this was used for burials, as at least 5 shallow cremation pits have been discovered. There is much evidence of prehistoric occupation in the area around Birkrigg, near Ulverston. Several bronze age
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The
NEW C O L L E C T I O N
10 Simcas House
The Flowing River 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2
The Flowing River is located in the village of Backbarrow and is set on the banks of the River Leven. From the moment you step inside, the owner’s attention to detail is evident. The whole apartment is furnished in a cosy and welcoming contemporary style and offers high quality accommodation. Stepping outside the front door, a short stroll takes you to the centre of the village and many walks and attractions. From £375 for 7 nights
Skyfell House 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6
Skyfell is a beautifully presented, luxurious, Victorian, end of terrace house in the residential area of Keswick just a few minutes walk from the centre of the town and the bustling market square. The present owners have worked hard to present a superb property that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation. From £595 for 7 nights
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Holmdale 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 A fabulous Lakeland terraced cottage offering quality accommodation in a prime Ambleside location. Holmdale is located in the heart of Ambleside village which sits under the shadow of Wansfell at the head of Lake Windermere. It is the perfect spot for those who want to walk the fells straight from their door and yet be close to all the shops, restaurants, pubs and other activities the village has to offer. From ÂŁ425 for 7 nights
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Candy Cottage 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Candy Cottage is a superbly presented Victorian terrace house and is situated right in the middle of Bowness, yet away from the hustle and bustle of Bowness. This cottage is arranged over four floors which has been carefully planned to create plenty of space for guests to relax and socialise. Finished to a high standard, this popular property is a great choice for family or friends whatever the time of year. From ÂŁ595 for 7 nights
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Greenstyles 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 5 With beautiful views across the large garden to the fells beyond, walks from the door and an abundance of wildlife, Greenstyles is just five minutes drive from Bowness and easy access to the central Lake District beyond. This is certainly more than just a holiday cottage, this is an experience that is not to be missed. From ÂŁ550 for 7 nights
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T R U S T E D
Put your holiday home in
safe hands and earn a regular income
For over forty years, Lakelovers has helped property owners turn holiday homes into valuable investments. We know just what it takes to create a warm welcome for guests and generate a great income for owners. As the market leading agency in the Lake District, you can rest assured that our dedicated team can do just that for you and your property all year round. Get in touch today to unlock the earning potential of your property. lakelovers.co.uk/let-with-us | 015392 88855
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Hillside Cottage, Port Isaac
Anouska Lancaster by Chris Fletcher Photography
Ask the Expert
Anouska Lancaster We recently caught up with Anouska Lancaster, Interior Designer and owner of two of our very different cottage experiences from our sister company, John Bray Cornish Holidays. Anouska owns Hillside Cottage and Rose Cottage located in Port Isaac, North Cornwall. How long have you been an interior designer, and what inspired this career path for you?
show the personality of whoever lives there, not just creating a show home.
I’m not formally trained in interior design, but always had a flair for art and creativity. I started dabbling in interiors in 2010, working on friends’ houses and projects. People liked what I did, and it grew by word of mouth and recommendations, really.
The quirky and individual interior designs have lovely seaside and local influences, was this always the vision you had?
I had such a passion for it I then did various courses at the Design School in Chelsea, how to run a business, CAD drawings, and making a bridge between art and interiors. Quirky and something different was how I wanted to stand out, and colour and design were so important in my work. I started to win awards, which really helped my confidence, and I’m a huge believer that a house should
I wanted to reflect the Cornish heritage but with a contemporary twist - there’s lots of places doing the white and blue colourways, with boats and driftwood, and I wanted a nautical feel, but something quirky, and with colour. I was very mindful of the tradition of the village houses, so I was a bit more cautious than I sometimes can be! My trademark is the strong use of colour and pattern, so I wanted to keep this as my theme, but tied in with the
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nautical, seaside vibe. I love using playful and vibrant wallcoverings full of zingy colourful coral and sea-life, lively stripy blinds and individual cushions complete the look. The cottages have beautiful soft furnishings and decorative pieces, did you shop local and where do you find these treasures? Absolutely! As much as I possibly can, I like to make sure the designs feel authentic and are from the local area. I contracted local tradesmen, artists, and fabric designers. You’ll find me in local antique and charity shops, looking for quirky objects to find a home for. I was at an antique market in Lostwithiel and stumbled across some old lifebuoys
Anouska’s Design Tips My main tip would be fall in love with something – a piece of art, a photograph, a wallpaper, or a fabric, then use it as the main feature and work backwards from there. For example, you find a floral wallpaper you love, then perhaps bring out, say 3 different colours from the wallpaper into blinds, cushions and lamps. and oars – I buy these things up and store them in my garage until I find a home for them. Of course, driftwood and rope, and shells are bountiful in Cornwall, my challenge to myself is to use and display them in a different way. I also employ local carpenters, joiners, plumbers and upholsterers. Wherever you are in the UK, you’ll find many talented craftspeople nearby, and it makes perfect sense to use their skills on your project. What top tips would you give to decorating novices who are unsure about adding a splash of colour to their home? Think about it as though you are working on a painting. Start neutral, then add layers of colour, perhaps a wash, then maybe a secondary accent colour. Aim to deliver the wow factor, and to make people smile. Above all, it should make you happy, and reflect your personality.
them feel welcome and curious about what their holiday will bring. It can be a real escape from normality and our every-day stresses and strains. Its’ all about little touches too, things that make a guest feel you’ve really thought about their stay and how to make it special. My aim is to create a space that is joyous and relaxing, somewhere different from your home environment, perhaps even something that makes you chuckle! The location is also a key factor – my two cottages are close to the sea, and that is so evocative and powerful for me. You may have somewhere in a quiet valley, perhaps near a lake, or a river, that immediately gives a feeling of tranquillity. That said, if you create a haven indoors, you can transport your guests to another world!
Be brave and go for the impact – even consider colours which would be seen as clashing (like pink and orange). Let each piece breathe and stand-alone – try and move away from wanting a match of cushions, and curtains, you’re looking for a complementary feel and if you’re very daring, a clash here and there. Consider mixing patterns. Perhaps a floral pattern with a geometric one, perhaps 2 wallpapers or a wallpaper and a fabric. The effect can be stunning. Scour the flea markets and antique shops, finding something quirky and authentic can be a real focus for your room. It really brings with it its own history, has a story to tell and is so much more interesting than having everything brand new. Upcycling old pieces of furniture perhaps by painting them with vibrant colours that match your scheme is another great way of being original and different.
There is enough grey and beige in the world, be brave and try something! After all, it’s only paint and paper and can always be redone.
Your room should tell a story about you, your personality, where you’ve traveled and what you love in life.
What do you think makes a great holiday home?
My trinity is Art, Fabrics, Wallpaper. They give me that initial inspiration, and everything else follows.
We all want to wake up in the morning on our holidays and feel happy. A playfully decorated home can achieve that. It’s all about creating an atmosphere from the moment a guest arrives at the cottage, making
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Landower House 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8 Landower is the ideal choice for special family occasions, holidays with friends and family and the ideal place for relaxing and socialising whilst being only a few minutes walk from the hustle and bustle of Ambleside village with a great selection of local shops, bars and restaurants along with all the village amenities you could need. Landower offers a welcoming, spacious, bright and airy open plan lounge with log burning stove, kitchen and dining area with patio doors onto the garden and two patios. Complemented by a choice of four en-suite bedrooms all with luxury en-suite facilities there is plenty of space for all. From ÂŁ995 for 7 nights
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The Lake District Village Guide
ULVERSTON
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Ulverston is a historic market town on the Furness & Cartmel Peninsula with a labyrinth of cobbled streets and fine old buildings. For a little market town Ulverston has a whole lot of history. The birthplace of Stan Laurel, and home to the world’s only Laurel & Hardy Museum. The town also has the world’s shortest, widest and deepest canal, built in 1796 to provide the town with a port, as it is 1.5 miles from the sea at Morecambe Bay. It also saw George Fox, the founder of the Quaker Movement living for a time at nearby Swarthmoor Hall.
Where to walk View from Sir John Barrow Monument
Ford Park and Garden leading up to Hoad Hill Park in the town centre and make your way up this gentle hours walk. The Hoad Monument can be ascended via a spiral stone staircase of 112 steps. At the top, eight apertures provide a 360-degree panorama of the Furness Peninsula, Morecambe Bay and the southern Lake District. Distance – 2.7km | Time – 1 hour Birkrigg Common Follow the pathway up from the Coast Road A5087 across the fields and up to the stone circle. The common reaches a height of 136m, affording beautiful views over the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Howgills and Morecambe Bay to Blackpool. Distance – 2.7km | Time – There are lots of paths that cross on the common, so you can spend a couple of hours visiting the various ancient remains on the site. Ulverston Canal Start at Coronation Hall, turn left and cross over the A590. Turn left, go down the A590 to the crossing by the roundabout. Cross over and continue as the A590 becomes Canal Street, look right and see Canal Head. Carry on until you see the opening to your right marked by a signpost. Continue down the towpath until you reach the Bay Horse Hotel at Canal Foot, which used to be the staging post for the coaches that crossed Morecambe Bay in the 18th Century. The easiest route back is back up the towpath. Ulverston Canal
Distance – 6.2km | Time – Approx. 1.5 hours
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What not to miss
Food and Drink
John Barrow Monument on Hoad Hill
Gilliam’s Tea Room
Enjoy a lovely walk up to the tower which is a replica of the Eddystone Lighthouse and gives breathtaking views over Morecambe Bay.
The Gilliams have been in these beautiful historic tearooms and grocery shop, since 1892 and it is still a go-to place for tea and a bite to eat.
Laurel & Hardy Museum You’ll find lots of quirky memorabilia from ‘The Boys’ along with the chance to watch some classic black and white movies. Shop and cafe too. Druid’s Circle on Birkrigg Common Get your Druid fix at Birkrigg Common, with lots of evidence of prehistoric activity, and bronze age tumuli on the common. It is a magical place, very atmospheric with amazing views out to the coast and all around to the fells.
Birkrigg Common and Bardsea Church
Bici Cafe Eat and drink the authentic Italian way in this contemporary stylish little place, which used to be an old bike shop, and is a cyclist=friendly place, with lots of ideas for cycle routes to try as well as great Italian food. Ciao! Amigos ‘Contemporary, delicious, romantic, fun’ Somewhere different using local fresh produce and currently the only Mexican Restaurant in the South Lake District. Salud! L’al Churrasco
Shed 1 Gin Shed 1 Gin launched in October 2016 in the market town of Ulverston on the edge of the Lake District. They produce small-batch, classically distilled, award-winning, craft gin that’s “smooth enough to be sipped, bold enough to be mixed.” Book a tour of the gin distillery with gin tastings, make your very own gin or pop in for delicious afternoon tea.
If you’ve got a craving for tapas - this places makes fresh Spanish, Portuguese and South Mediterranean tapas with seasonal produce. Delicious! Pubs There are lots of great pubs dotted around the central town area: The Farmers, The Sun, The Mill, Rose and Crown and the Stan Laurel Inn. All serving great food and a good atmosphere. And if you’re into your craft beer, a visit to Beerwolf is a must! The town is full of little cafes and bistros to try out as you have a wander around this lovely market town.
Shed 1 Gin Bar
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Lakelovers
Top Pick Near Ulverston
Crake Cottage 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 7 | 2 Pets Welcome Crake Cottage is a very pretty end of terrace cottage and has beautiful far reaching views of the River Crake and the surrounding countryside. It is situated in the pretty hamlet of Penny Bridge and sits just on the border of the Lake District and on the fringe of Greenodd village, yet has everything you want within easy reach and is away from the hustle and bustle. From ÂŁ595 for 7 nights
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GOLF THE LAKES We recently added a number of luxury apartments and townhouses at Carus Green Golf Club to our portfolio. Set in a beautiful location with a challenging 18-hole parkland, state-of-the-art golf training facilities, and an award-winning contemporary clubhouse. It’s one of the most popular golf clubs in northern England.
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Cherry Trees
Carus Green Town Houses
Carus Green Golf Course
Luxury self-catering accommodation
from 8am and offers a delicious locally sourced menu seven days a week.
Choose from four-bedroom luxury townhouses, the Penthouse with roof-terrace overlooking the course or the 2 bedroomed golf apartment - all located at Carus Green, Kendal. Looking for something a little extra? Stay at Cleabarrow Cottage or Cherry Trees located near Bowness-on-Windermere to add the five-star factor to your Lake District break.
Explore nearby Nearby you’ll find the gourmet hotspots of Cartmel and Kirkby Lonsdale with fine local artisan foods and awardwinning restaurants, both within easy reach. Between Kendal and Windermere is the lush Lyth Valley, famous for its damson and apple orchards that are gorgeous in spring, laden in wonderful white blossom. The quiet narrow country lanes of the Lyth Vallet are made for cycling and are scattered with acclaimed Lake District country pubs.
Guests staying at Carus Green can also enjoy inclusive use of the Pulse Leisure Club at the Castle Green, a short 10-minute drive away, as well as preferential rates for the golf course and academy.
Work on your swing
Carus Green is a remarkable collection of luxury accommodation providing a superb holiday a great base for exploring this south Lake District.
The golf academy at Carus Green features plenty of training options, which is also a good alternative to the sweeping greens and water features when the weather is not on your side. There is an all-weather 16 bay driving range with automated tees, indoor simulator, putting area and state-of-the-art swing analysis equipment. Golfers heaven!
Eat and drink Relax in the contemporary, spacious clubhouse with lots of lounge areas, with a large balcony and glazed walls perfect for enjoying the scenery. The lounge bar is open
Roof terrace at The Penthouse, Carus Green
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The
CARUS GREEN COLLECTION
26 Carus Green Apartments
Cleabarrow Cottage 6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12 From its elevated position, just outside the popular village of Bowness, in the heart of the Lake District, Cleabarrow Cottage takes full advantage of its position to enjoy the beautiful, far reaching views across the meadows and woods to the imposing skyline of the south Lakeland fells. The accommodation is spread over three floors, presented with six welcoming bedrooms, including one on the ground floor, all with ensuite facilities. From ÂŁ3,400 for 7 nights
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Carus House 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10
The Carus Green House is a large detached house on the edge of the golf course over looking the first tee! This unique and beautifully designed house is presented to an exceptionally high standard to offer luxurious accommodation. Offering five welcoming bedrooms all with ensuite facilities to complement the bright, spacious open plan living accommodation guests will admire the character and quality of this unique accommodation. New for 2020 - a hot tub has been installed for guests to enjoy. From ÂŁ3,400 for 7 nights
The Penthouse 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 7
The Carus Green Penthouse is the penthouse suite of four apartments that are located on the edge of the golf course and offer stunning views of the course and the surrounding countryside. In addition to the excellent golf facilities on site which includes a driving range, training academy and well stocked shop. The club house with its popular bar and restaurant offers meals, snack and drinks throughout the day. From ÂŁ990 for 7 nights
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Carus Town House No 5 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms Sleeps 8 | 1 Pet Welcome The Carus Green Town Houses are a terrace of three, well designed and beautifully presented properties. With the open plan living accommodation located on the first floor, guests benefit from lovely views across the golf course and to the surrounding hills. The four bedrooms, each with an ensuite shower room are presented with a choice of super king or twin beds and are laid out with two on the ground floor and two on the second floor. From ÂŁ1,100 for 7 nights
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Meet the Whisky Maker Dhavall Gandhi
We have to admit to being just a little bit envious when we found out more about Dhavall Ghandi landing his dream job in the Lakes. Dhavall is the Whiskymaker at The Lakes Distillery, on the shores of beautiful Bassenthwaite Lake. Dhavall began his career as a graduate in corporate finance and economics in the USA, then became a management consultant with Ernst & Young. Whilst travelling in Kentucky, he and a friend ended up visited several bourbon whiskey distilleries – the rest, you could say, is history. “As I sat on the steps of Maker’s Mark, I had an epiphany moment and realised the direction I wanted to go in. I discovered I had the rare gift of identifying different aromas, and enjoyed abstract concepts, whisky was in my blood!” A move to Scotland quickly followed, and a post-graduate degree in brewing & distilling at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Then followed work at Heineken as he gained his Chartered Scientist status. The next step was an opportunity at The Macallan as Whiskymaker, where he really began living his dream. We caught up with him to ask him more about his unique job.
The Lakes Distillery
Why did you decide to come to the Lakes after working at the classic Macallan Distillery?
place where I developed an in-depth understanding of sherry casks and the start of my career in blending.
Throughout my career, I have never been one to follow the trodden path or shy away from risk but, of course, joining an unknown English whisky company in 2016 was a gamble for any Whiskymaker, not least one at The Macallan.
The Lakes on the other hand presented a completely different opportunity and, importantly, gave me the chance to challenge myself on many different levels.
Working at the Macallan was a treasured time in my career. It was the
The allure of working in a business with that scale of ambition, coupled with the challenge of creating a new house
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style and building a whisky brand in a country with no reputation for single malt whisky appealed. Once Dr. Alan Rutherford (The Lakes Distillery chairman) offered me carte blanche to run the distillery’s operations at every stage of the whisky-making process, it was an opportunity I could not resist. How do you relax when not creating Whisky? I see work and life as more an
To p : T h e W h i s y M a k e r ’s R e s e r v e N o 3 | B o t t o m : D h a v a l l G a n d h i - B l e n d i n g
integration rather than a balance, so even when I am not creating whisky, I will be thinking about creating it or looking for new inspirations that could help to improve or create more flavour. When I do truly relax, it is usually with my family. I am also an obsessive reader of all kinds of books, and a huge fan of music. What’s your favourite whisky and what food goes best with it? My favourite whisky is Suntory Hibiki 17-Year-Old, which is a fantastic Japanese blend made with aged malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s three distilleries; and it pairs beautifully with sushi, especially fatty tuna.
How should we best enjoy our whisky? Whisky is one of the most versatile drinks and I believe you should drink it however you please. Whether that is neat, with a splash of water, or in a highball or cocktail, just experiment and discover what works for you.
complemented by orris root, cassia bark, liquorice, two types of orange and lemon peel. Our ultra-smooth Vodka is distilled just once using British Wheat for a sweeter, more rounded flavour. The Lakes Vodka was awarded ‘World’s Best Vodka’ in 2019.
What else does your role involve?
Do you have a favourite walk or place you visit in the Lakes for peace and quiet?
My role is holistic in that it covers every aspect of the whisky-making process from sourcing the raw materials to bottling the final whisky, but I am also fortunate enough to be the maker of The Lakes Gin and Vodka, distilling both on-site in our traditional copper pot still. The Lakes Gin is a classic English Gin, made with nine carefully selected botanicals. Juniper, coriander and angelica are our flavour cornerstones, 31
When I want time to think I enjoy walking around Loweswater. Surrounded by magnificent mountain views and woodland, it takes you away from it all and conveniently passes by one of my favourite Lake District pubs, The Kirkstile Inn – with a great selection of whisky, gin and vodka, and delicious home -cooked food.
Simon Rogan’s
Damson Chocolate Fondant
Ingredients Damson Filling Damsons 300g Caster sugar 2 heaped tbsp Chocolate Fondant Unsalted butter Cocoa powder Dark chocolate Eggs Caster sugar Plain flour
250g 3 tbsp 250g 5, plus 5 egg yolks 125g 100g
Brush six dariole or pudding moulds evenly with softened butter. Place on a baking tray and chill the moulds for 10 minutes in the fridge until the butter has set. Once set, brush them again with softened butter and dust the insides with the cocoa powder, tapping out any excess powder that hasn’t stuck. Chill the moulds again until required. To make the damson filling, put the damsons and 100ml water in a medium, heavy-based saucepan and bring to the boil over a medium heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the fruit for 10–12 minutes. Strain the cooked damsons through a fine sieve into a clean, heavy-based saucepan, pushing as much of the pulp as you can through the sieve using the back of a spoon or ladle. Discard the damson stones. Add the sugar to the damson juice and cook over a low– medium heat for 15–20 minutes until the mixture has the consistency of jam. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. Divide the damson mixture between six holes in a 20ml ice-cube tray and transfer to the freezer until hard. While the damson filling is freezing, melt the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water), stirring regularly. While the chocolate is melting, whisk the whole eggs, egg yolks and sugar in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment on high speed until pale, light, fluffy and quadrupled in size. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and gently fold the melted butter and chocolate mixture through the eggs. Once fully incorporated, sift in the flour and fold through again. Put the fondant mixture in the fridge for 10 minutes and preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4. Keeping the moulds on the tray, pour 50–60g of the chilled fondant mixture into the bottom of each chilled mould, gently add 1 frozen damson cube and cover each cube with 50–60g of fondant mixture. Bake the fondants for 12–13 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to sit in the mould for 2 minutes before turning out on to plates. Serve immediately, dusted with cocoa powder. Easy The Cookbook 45 mins Credit: Rogan: by Simon Rogan, with photography by Cristian Barnett (HarperNonFiction, £30)
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Walk distance 1.5 miles (2.4 Km)
Height climbed 180 metres
Gummer’s How Walk Guide
Walk features Lake Views, Woodland, Luing Cattle
This easy mountain climb offers amazing views over Lake Windermere and out over Morecambe Bay to the sea. On a clear day, you can even see a very slender looking Blackpool Tower. From the summit, you will be able to spot many of the Lakeland fells too, including; Dollywagon Pike, Fairfield Horseshoe, Great Rigg, Hart Crag, Scandale Pass, Red Screes and Kirkstone Pass.
1. Park at the Forestry Commission Car Park and walk across the road and through the gate sign posted ‘Gummers How’. It’s a lovely woodland walk to start with across a babbling brook followed by a fairly strenuous hill. The path up has been formed into steps by the Fix the Fells team.
way up to the top or turn right behind the hillock and take a more leisurely grassy path upward.
3. Before too long you arrive at the summit and the rather impressive trig point with views all around. A good place to sit and take in the view before you make your way back down. Either take the same route you took to the top, or make a circuit and chose the alternative route back down.
The Lakes Distillery
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Luing Cattle, Gummers How
2. Approximately halfway to the summit, the path splits into two. You can continue left and scramble your
High Brow
The
RURAL COTTAGES
COLLECTION
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Grass Guards Cottage 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 With breathtaking views to the Coniston Fells, and Harter Fell rising majestically to the north, Grass Guards is perched high in the hills of the beautiful Duddon Valley. A perfect base for walkers, climbers, mountain bikers and families! This farm dates back over 500 years and has been loving refurbished to create a high quality retreat for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of modern day life and to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful corners of the Lake District. From ÂŁ615 for 7 nights
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Lacet Cottage 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 | 1 Pet Welcome Located in the rolling countryside of the north east Lake District, just a few minutes from the shores of Ullswater, Lacet Cottage, a traditional 19th century cottage, has been lovingly refurbished by the owner to offer exceptional and high quality accommodation, finished to a very high standard for those seeking a beautiful Lakeland retreat. From ÂŁ645 for 7 nights
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Juniper Cottage 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 A stunning rural location with spacious maintained grounds and gardens for guests to enjoy and relax. Juniper Cottage offers contemporary standards of comfort in a 1920’s Lakeland character property, in a truly enviable location within easy reach of Bowness and Windermre. With breath-taking views across meadows and woods to the fells, beyond, it is an ideal setting for a totally relaxing holiday, From £615 for 7 nights
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The Lake District Village Guide
STAVELEY
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You may well speed past Staveley on your way towards Windermere. It’s found on the A590 between Kendal and Windermere, sitting at the foot of the secluded Kentmere Valley, which is an idyllic valley of rolling hills, valleys, woods and drystone walls, as well as Kentmere itself, the tarn. Two rivers flow through the village, the fast-flowing River Kent, and the smaller River Gowan. This huge water supply once powered 8 wood mills.
Where to walk Sunrise on Kentmere Horseshoe
Kentmere Horseshoe The Kentmere Horseshoe, or Kentmere Round, is one of the longest and most remote walks in the Lake District. The circular route takes in 9 of the 214 ‘Wainwright’ fells, including; High Street, Thornthwaite Crag, Harter Fell, Mardale III Bell, III Bell, Kentmere Pike, Froswick, Yoke and Shipman Knotts. The walk starts near the village hall in the hamlet of Kentemere, just 4 miles north of Stavely. Parking is limited in the village, an honesty box is located near the village hall. Distance – 22km | Time – 6-8 hours
Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Wood Nearby Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Wood is a nature reserve made up of three seperate areas of woodland: High Wood, Dorothy Farrer’s Spring Wood and Beddard’s Wood. In spring these woods are full of bluebells and bird song in the spring, keep an eye out for the spotted flycatchers and redstarts. In the past, the wood was coppiced for bobbins, charcoal and baskets, and is still managed in the same way today but to nurture wildlife. The best times to visit are April to June, but catch the trees turning colour from September to November. Distance – Each of the three woods can be linked to make a walk of 1.2km
Redstart
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What not to miss
Food and Drink
Hawkshead Brewery
More? The Artisan Bakery
No visit to Staveley is complete without a trip to Hawkshead Brewery & Beer Hall - they make the beer on site and serve delicious food and, of course, drink. The full range of Hawkshead Brewery beers are available across the 14 handpumps and you can stock up on your favourite from the Bar Shop to take away and enjoy at home too. Brewery tours are also available for those interested in learning how their brew is made.
Enjoy fresh baked bread and goodies as well as great coffee, hot pies and soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix after a morning on the fells or stocking up at your cottage, these guys have got you covered.
Inglefield Speciality Plants Those with green fingers will not want to miss this family-run nursery. From plants, containers and compost, this specialist nursery have a passion for architectural plants with strong shapes and colour. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the countless interesting pots and unusual plants, many imported from northern Italy, you will not be disappointed.
The Eagle and Child A superb Lakeland inn serving warming home-cooked food and great ales with an outdoor seating area by the river for those crisp autumn days. Wilf’s Cafe Wilf’s Cafe will provide you with good food, all made on the premises and a tranquil riverside setting overlooking the River Kent. Serving traditional breakfasts, lovely lunches and daily specials you’ll be spoilt for choice at this little gem. Kimi’s Gelato Bar
Wheelbase Located in the centre of Staveley Mill Yard is Wheelbase, one of the largest bike stores in the region with over 600 bikes on display. Take advantage of professional bike fitting in-store or simply hire a bike for your break and explore the Lakes on two wheels! Their friendly team will be happy to offer advice on local routes and Lakeland trails including their go-to ride around the Kentmere Valley. After you ride, they also offer hot showers, a free bike wash and in-store cafe.
Kimi’s Gelato Bar is a familyrun Gelato Kitchen and Parlour in the heart of Staveley. They pride themselves on using the very best ingredients and offering an ever-changing menu of flavours - including some seasonal surprises! Mr. Duffin’s Coffee Artisan coffee is roasted at Mr. Duffin’s family-run roasters. Call in to pick up a bag of speciality coffee, home brewing equipment or a tasty takeaway coffee, cake, ice cream or soup!
Cyclist in the Lake District
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Lakelovers
Top Pick in Staveley
Two the Chapel 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 4 Located in the centre of Staveley, guests reach the cottage through the garden. Originally opened as a Methodist chapel in 1866, following its closure the chapel was carefully developed into a terrace of four cottages, each incorporating the characterful original features that offer an insight into the history of the building. Two The Chapel sits in the middle of the terrace and offers well presented, quality accommodation with open plan living accommodation, a choice of two bedrooms, a family bathroom and a pretty garden, with patio overlooking the river. From ÂŁ395 for 7 nights
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Scott Winstanley
Gone Fishing with
Scott Winstanley We recently ‘hooked up’ with local artist and fisherman, Scott Winstanley. He described what he loves most about fishing in Cumbria. What do you love about fishing in Cumbria and how long have you been doing it? I’ve had a long relationship with the Lake District, as a regular visitor from an early age, hiking with my late father, I’d look into the clear waters of a beck or a tarn and wonder if there were fish down there, but my dad had no time for fishing so it rarely happened back then. I only really started fishing here seriously about 13 years ago and it feels now like I’m doing what I always wanted to do as a boy, kind of living my childhood dreams. For me, the landscape of Cumbria and the Lake District is the most interesting in England, I’d say it’s the closest thing we have to wilderness. It can be beautiful, quaint,
mysterious, even unnerving at times, but there comes a point when just looking isn’t enough and an urge to interact with the landscape takes over. This could be fell walking, camping, wild swimming, boating or whatever, mine is fly fishing. I find solitude amongst those dramatic fells giving me a very special and spiritual experience when I pick up my rods and head to the water. How did you start drawing and painting fish and who is your inspiration? I was an artist before I was a fisherman so as soon as I began catching these special fish, I naturally wanted to draw them. Trout make superb subject matter - like most things in nature their design is aesthetically perfect; their form, their proportions,
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the spacing of their fins. Then there are the markings; the colours, spots and patterns, and the shapes and reflections that form in the light that catches a wet fish out of water, all these things lend themselves to imitation in paint or pencil. My biggest influence is an American artist and angler called James Prosek. James’ work gave me an idea for a smaller, more local project focusing on Cumbria. I had noticed great variety in the markings and colours of the trout that I was catching in the Lake District and wanted to record a few of the most diverse examples, resulting in a poster called Trout of Cumbria. The poster features six trout that are presented in a style that gives a nod to those vintage field guides and Victorian teaching aids.
Your artwork is really detailed, is it just a natural eye you had for them? I think that a lot of good fly anglers are naturally quite observant, we tend to have an acute awareness of our surroundings when we’re on the water, essential if we’re going to be successful and fully immerse ourselves in the angling experience. These are qualities that are transferable when it comes to creating detailed drawings so, being observant and paying attention to detail is certainly something that comes naturally to me. Do you ever paint commissions? I often get asked to paint portraits of an angler’s memorable catch, usually in watercolour, which I really enjoy, trying to replicate the colours and spot formations and producing something as close to the living fish as I can. Lately, I’ve started creating pen drawings over OS Maps which have generated some interest, mainly from anglers that want an illustration over an area of map that means something to them. This allows the details of the map, the rivers, place names and contours, to intermingle with the image, making the drawing look more at home on the background, like it’s meant to be there.
Can you share your top 3 favourite places to fish in the Lakes? We anglers are notoriously secretive about our fishing spots, and when I first starting fishing in the Lake District it was a real voyage of discovery, hours spent poring over OS maps looking for potential waters, then venturing out not knowing what to expect; quite special times. Haweswater is a firm favourite. I love the shoreline, it has mystery and is ever-changing - sometimes there are bays, rocky beaches and peninsulas, then I can go back another day and they’ll be gone or will have changed shape. Also, unlike a lot of other lakes (Buttermere for instance), the hikers’ trail doesn’t run close to the shore, so, even though the car park can be packed and the fells well populated, when you’re fishing at the water’s edge, there’s a real sense of solitude. I also like Crummock Water. This is a place where I enjoy paddling my Canadian canoe in search of ‘ferox’ trout. These are big, fish-eating trout, they’re quite rare and for me, they’re the ultimate freshwater fish. In terms of running water, in addition to any number of high, fell side becks, I like the rivers of the Eden system; the Eamont, Lyvennet, Lowther, Irthing, Gelt. All quite different with characters of their own. The Gelt is probably the prettiest river I’ve ever fished, the
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stretch running through the ancient Gelt Woods, where the Romans left their mark in the sandstone, is really breathtaking. What advice would you give to someone who fancied starting out fishing? To remember that the mark of a good angler isn’t the ability to catch fish but the ability to enjoy yourself without catching fish. Quite philosophical I know but there’s a lot of truth in that statement. For me, the fly-fishing journey of discovery is important and something to be cherished. I didn’t take lessons, I’m totally self-taught and I believe I’m a better angler for it and I’ve had a richer experience. Those early years when I was working things out for myself were the best and I’m a little sad that the days of being a novice are gone and are never coming back. I’d say work things out for yourself, take the time to observe, to learn from your mistakes, formulate your own ideas and your own truths and then, when everything eventually comes together, you’ll have an infinitely more rewarding experience. If you’re inspired by Scott’s tales of adventure, and would like to order one of Scott’s Posters, you can do that at his Instagram page, that_other_ place.
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Glen Bank 5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10 | 2 Pets Welcome Glen Bank is a striking 5 star Gold Award property situated in the centre of the charming village of Brampton in the picturesque rural Eden Valley area of Cumbria, with easy access and one mile from the market town of Appleby. The dramatic and beautiful surroundings offer guests a huge choice of local walks on their doorstep or a variety of enticing locations within easy reach. From ÂŁ2125 for 7 nights
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Simcas House 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 | 1 Pet Welcome Built into the hillside Simcas is presented as an upside-down house with the living accommodation on the upper floor and the bedrooms on the lower floor allowing the house to offer very spacious living accommodation and three equally sized bedrooms. Located in the pretty village of Stainton, this stunning property is just a few minutes’ walk from two county pubs, a short drive to the shores of Ullswater and not far from the market town of Penrith with all the amenities you could need along with very easy access to the popular market town of Keswick From £665 for 7 nights
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Scots Pine 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 | 1 Pet Welcome Scots Pine is nestled in a beautiful, quiet and peaceful area and sits at the foot of Latrigg, within easy walking distance of Keswick town centre and market square in just 10- 15 minutes and forms part of a large Georgian manor house which is steeped in history. The cottage itself is a beautiful Victorian cottage which has its own enclosed garden and raised patio area. A great cottage for couples, families and just the perfect spot to get romantic! From ÂŁ595 for 7 nights
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Arrowfield House 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Located just a mile to the south of Coniston Village, Arrowfield House is within easy reach of the shores of Coniston Water. This beautiful, Victorian country house has been extended to combine the elegance of the original home with a smart contemporary twist with the focus being on the spacious and social layout of the property. There are two pubs and a small deli in Torver (5 minutes walk) and the village of Coniston is a 30 minutes walk away with a choice of popular Lakeland pubs, the village brewery and local shops. From ÂŁ825 for 7 nights
AUTUMN 2020 Blea Tarn
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