AUTUMN IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Lakes magazine
Ullswater
Rydal
Tarn Hows
Derwent Water Jetty
Ashness Bridge
Contents
Thank you
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Autumn - The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness
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Things to do - The #CulturalConcierge
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Low Sizergh Farm Shop
Autumn is a magical time in the Lake District. A time to enjoy the ever-inspiring colours of gold, red, russet, and brown, and breathe in the changing sunsets and reflections. Welcome to autumn in the Lake District.
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Pumpkin and Pancetta Soup
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The New Property Collection
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Let Your Cottage
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Wildlife Woodland Workshop - Cumbria Wildlife Trust
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A new path for Orrest Head, Windermere
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Wansfell At Lipwood House
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Simon Rogan - Our Farm
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The Lodge Collection
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The Carus Green Collection
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Village Guide - Windermere
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Ghost Hauntings in Keswick and Cockermouth
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The North Lakes Collection
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Graythwaite Adventures
With thanks to:
National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk Jane Watson Editorial Jeanette Edgar Cultural Concierge Joanna Bailey Content and design
Cumbria Wildlife Trust cumbriawildlifetrust.org. uk/ Graythwaite Adventure graythwaiteadventure. co.uk Low Sizergh Barn lowsizerghbarn.co.uk
Simon Rogan simonrogan.co.uk
Proud to be a member of Cumbria Tourism 3
Autumn
THE SEASON OF MISTS AND MELLOW FRUITFULNESS There’s a certain tree near Grasmere that is always first as the leaves change from green to gold, and that’s my measure for autumn creeping around the corner. That and the slight nip in the air as you open your front door one early morning and notice that the temperature has dropped, and the smell of nature has changed from blossom to leaves. Add to that the condensation on the car windows, and as you drive through the Lakes, you’ll see the amazing phenomena of the temperature inversion, where the clouds condense and sit atop of the water like a fluffy white blanket. You’ll know that summer is on its way out, and autumn is arriving in all its full technicolour glory. It’s always a bit sad acknowledging the end of summer, but each season turning brings its own glories and heralds positive change.
Autumn is a magical time in the Lake District. A time to enjoy the ever-inspiring colours of gold, red, russet, and brown, and breathe in the changing sunsets and reflections. Of course, it’s a time to indulge in comfort food, foaming pints, warming whisky, rich coffee, refreshing tea, woolly jumpers, and comfy boots, and get out in the fresh exhilarating air. The shorter days and longer nights have their own charms, as we hunker down and get cosy. If autumn is one of your favourite times of year, you’ll find few places as beautiful as the Lake District. This time of reflection, watching a sunset over the lake, crunching through fallen leaves, and enjoying the change of the season with all your senses can be very cathartic as we all come to terms with the close of another challenging year. One thing we have all learnt is not to take things for granted, and to make sure we get out in nature whenever we can, and just take some time out enjoying what we have here on our own beautiful doorstep. Our farmers and their families have no such luxury, however, as it’s the start of one of their busiest times, as the harvest and silage crops must be cut and stored, lambs and calves are weaned; cattle brought down from the higher ground, tup sales and mating begins. The hardy Herdwick sheep remain up on the fells in their natural habitat whatever the weather throws at them. Autumn or Fall? We tend to think of the phrase ‘fall’ as the North American version of the word autumn, but it was in widespread use in England until the 17th Century when it was originally a shortening of the phrase ‘fall of the leaf’. The word autumn entered English from the French automne and didn’t become commonly used until the 18th century. Solstices and equinox On the autumn equinox (usually around September 22nd) day and night are roughly of equal length, and as we move to winter, the nights will become increasingly longer, until the spring equinox, when the pattern is reversed. It also marks the time of year when the northern
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hemisphere begins to tilt away from the sun, meaning less direct sunlight and so the cooling temperatures. Whatever you have in your diary for this glorious season, we hope our magazine will transport you for a while, and inspire you try something different this autumn. “It’s the first day of autumn! A time of hot chocolatey mornings, and toasty marshmallow evenings, and, best of all, leaping into leaves!” Winnie-the-Pooh
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Coniston Water
The #CulturalConcierge Left : Brantwood, The Maple Walk in the Fall | Top right : Muncaster Castle Halloween Pumpkins | Bottom right : Holker Hall
This itinerary will guide you through exploring in the Lake District this Autumn
We caught up with Jeanette Edgar, our ‘Cultural Concierge’ to find out what she loves most about autumn in Cumbria. ‘As the leaves begin to turn and orchards and hedgerows fill with fruit, it’s time to make the most of the season’s rustic colours, fruit laden orchards and family days out with a trip to one of our heritage gardens or houses (maybe a castle too).
Visit a forest Autumn must be the best time of the year to visit a forest and Grizedale Forest offers unrivalled days out for everyone who visits. Walkers, delight in that crunch underfoot as you explore endless forest trails. Thrill-seekers, take to two wheels or into the trees and test your nerve on a bike or Go Ape courses. Culture vultures keep your eyes peeled for the unique sculptures dotted throughout the forest; and photographers and Instagrammers, you are in for a treat as the autumnal colours dazzle and are reflected in the waters of the natural tarn. Celebrate Apple Day Originating in 1990 in response to the loss of so many traditional orchards, Apple Day is a great way of celebrating the many different varieties grown throughout Britain. Apple Day itself falls on 21 October, but events take place throughout autumn. Enjoy a day dedicated to celebrating all things apple! –
as specialists, enthusiasts, growers, and everyone who likes eating apples gather or a day of apple identification, apple pies, apple sauce, juicing, stalls, and fruity activities for all the family. Take a taste on the wild side At this time of year, hedgerows are alive with delicious fruit from blackberries for jams to sloes for gin and there’s a bountiful supply of fungi, nuts, and wild herbs – but heck – you’re on holiday! So let someone else do the foraging, the jam making and the cooking and seek out one of our amazing heritage house’s tearooms or restaurants with a taste of nature on the menu. Now here I’m spoilt for choice – but for homemade jam with your scones served in a converted Grade II listed barn to Michelin starred dining in a peel tower built during the 14th century you’d do no better than Askham Hall. If you fancy doing a recci take a stroll through their beautiful gardens with views of the River Lowther and visit the animals – what they can’t source
locally they grow, forage and rear! The eagle-eyed amongst you may spot red squirrels, rabbits, badgers, and pheasants.
begin to close at the end of October, but many will keep their gardens and estates and cafes open to walk and wander through, and hold seasonal events, especially at half-term, and in the festive season.
Meet the gardeners Be afraid – be very afraid! Autumn must be one of the most mindful times to visit a heritage garden. As those bright blousy colours fade, the herbaceous borders become an exciting display of rich golds, bronzes, and deep reds – their final explosion before fading to winter. If you are looking for inspiration, then head to a garden that positively shouts creativity and happy to share some tips – here’s a couple of my top picks for gardens with autumn colour and dates when you can meet the gardeners themselves. The gardens at Holker Hall have evolved over hundreds of years, under the knowledgeable guidance of generations of the Cavendish Family. They will all have seen seasons come and go, each adding new plantings to create what is now a very characterful garden. You can learn more about it from Head Gardener, Glyn Sherratt who gives tours at various times throughout the year. Every year the gardens at Lowther Castle grow more intriguing – all overseen by head gardener Martin Ogle who knows the gardens intimately. You can join Martin on an autumn garden tour, followed by a Q&A session over tea and cake on Thursday 21 October. You will also see the Garden Masterplan, drawn up in 2012 by Dan Pearson. The gardens are open to visitors most days, but always pre-book tours on their websites, the halls and houses
As well as being the season of mellow fruitfulness it’s also the season of things that go bump in the dark! So, if Halloween’s your thing – then go to where it’s done well - full-on drama! Join in the Skeleton Parade at Brockhole on Windermere – the daily dance of bones takes place throughout their Halloween week, 20 – 31 October. Along with haunted forests, zombie archers and pumpkin farmers it’s a Halloween experience that will haunt you. Or book into the Emporium of Stolen Souls, Muncaster Castle’s Halloween Show, 23 - 31 October, where there will be oodles of fun and Halloween entertainment to make this a perfect time of year to visit this haunted castle. Activities include the Scary Maze, fire juggling shows, axe throwing(!), kids crafts, lantern parades, spooky science sessions and zombies… And finally - food! Cumbria has a food heritage with no equal anywhere in England - and we’ve eight Michelin stars to prove it. The combination of locally sourced produce and culinary expertise has made eating out an experience in many of our pubs, restaurants, cafes and farm shops.
Brockhole Autumn Gardens
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The Hairy Bikers at Growing Well at Low Sizergh Barn
Low Sizergh Farm Shop Award-winning local produce
Low Sizergh is one of our favourite Farm Shops and has just been named in the Times top ten of Farm Shops in the UK, as well as being shortlisted for the prestigious Farmer Retailer of the Year.
Alison Park and her brother Richard, with Richards’s wife and son Matthew, have spent all their lives working in the family business, and they also employ a further 40 people from the local community.
Low Sizergh Barn has been owned and operated by the Park family for 40 years, and their Farm Shop is in its 30th year. The Farm and Barn Shop are located just off the A591 main route into the Lakes as you turn off the M6 at Junction 36. With a cafe, farm shop and deli, and a gift shop selling unusual cards, art, clothing, and more, it’s an ideal place to head for as a stop-off to treating yourself to local goodies and the first taste of Cumbria.
Set in a 17th-century Westmorland stone barn, the dairy farm shop showcases a host of produce from the farm and its on-site organic vegetable business: Growing Well, a mental health charity, organic farm, and training centre, as well as the county’s growers and makers, and artisan food producers nationally.
Seen as a local treasure in the Lakes community, they have just reached the final stages of the Farm Retailer of the Year in Newsquest’s Farmer Awards, with results on October 1st. They also appeared this month in The Times top ten of Farm Shops in the UK and starred in the Hairy Bikers Go North, particularly Growing Well.
Easy
Alison Park said: “We are so proud of the nomination for food retailer of the year as it shows just how hard our farm shop and café team have worked through really challenging times. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our customers still had access to wholesome food. At the start of the pandemic, we created a completely new service with phone shopping and collection or delivery, and
45 mins Cows being milked at Low Sizergh Barn
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Make sure you are there in time for watching the cows being milked at 3.30pm daily through the gallery window of the café, and you can even buy a litre of the herd’s fresh raw milk from the vending machine opposite the milking parlour. It’s such an immediate connection and really highlights the farm to fork philosophy here.
online ordering. We also created a range of ready meals made from scratch in the kitchens and suitable for the freezer. It meant family from away could call and order for us to deliver to local relatives when they couldn’t get there personally. With the café closed, we decided to get creative with our outdoor takeaway area, adding seating when permitted, along with gazebos up tables & chairs. We’ve really tried to meet community needs. People have long used us as a meeting place, whether to enjoy a hearty Farmer’s Breakfast, lunchtime special, afternoon tea, or a chat over a brew and cake. We’ve tried hard to make that experience as normal as possible, whilst keeping folk safe.”
There’s a two-mile farm trail around Low Sizergh, down to the pond, and through fields and ancient woodland, where you might just spot some faeries in the glade! Then treat yourselves to a scoop of ice cream, made with milk from the cows of course by Windermere Ice Cream company. Alison concludes: “That’s just one of many relationships built up over years here that makes what we do so special. We are rooted in our community and couldn’t think of a better place to be.”
On the food front, Low Sizergh has always been about bringing local people together with the people who grow and produce their food. Their award-winning cheeses are made with the farm’s milk, and many of the vegetables and salad leaves sold are grown by on-site mental health charity, Growing Well which also operates a crop-share scheme for local people. Of course, many of these home-grown delights are used in the café, so you can taste them first-hand.
Low Sizergh Barn is a brilliant place to visit, either on your way into the Lakes to stock up on goodies for your holiday or on your way home to take some delicious memories with you.
Pumpkin and Pancetta Soup As autumn is here, you can’t beat a homemade warming soup, thank to our friends at Low Sizergh Barn for this one.
INGREDIENTS Oil 1 Onion 1 Clove of Garlic Smoked Paprika 1sp Chilli Flakes Salt and Pepper 1 Large Squash 200ml Vegtable Stock 150g Pancetta (Or Cannellini beans/Chickpeas) Yoghurt/Crème Fraiche Coriander to finish EQUIPMENT Blender
METHOD 1. Heat some oil in a large pan, and cook an onion, clove of garlic, pinch of smoked paprika, 1 tsp of chilli flakes, and salt and pepper gently till soft. 2. Add a peeled, diced, and cubed large squash and cook for further five minutes. 3. Pour in 400ml of vegetable stock. Bring to simmer, cook for 20 minutes until all the veg is very soft. 4. Zap with a blender until smooth. 5. Chop 150g pancetta and fry until crispy golden. 6. Add soup and pancetta together again, (or cannellini beans or chickpeas, if wanting veggie version) heat gently for a couple of minutes. 7. Finish with spoonful of yoghurt or crème fraiche. 8. Add a spoonful of chopped coriander to finish. Yum!
Pumpkin Soup: Low Sizergh Barn 9
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NEW C O L L E C T I O N
10 The Old Water Mill
The Eyrie Keswick | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8
The Eyrie is a beautiful end-terrace apartment sitting in the centre of lively Keswick, Cumbria. This three-storey apartment offers spectacular views of the mountain ranges surrounding the town, while being within easy reach of local amenities, making it the ideal accommodation for friends and families alike.
Fellside Lodge Bowness-on-Windermere | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bathroom | Sleeps 6 | Pet Friendly
Fellside Lodge is a delightful, semi-detached cottage situated on the edge of Bownesson-Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District. Boasting three floors of wonderful living, this homely abode is a great choice for families or groups of friends seeking exploration of this magnificent National Park.
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Craig Cottage Bowness-on-Windermere | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 6 Located in the heart of Bowness-On-Windermere, Craig Cottage is a stylish Victorian home that is the ideal base for friends and families to explore the Lake District all year round. Craig Cottage is just a few minutes walk from the restaurants, cafes and bars of Bowness and is within easy reach of Lake Windermere. Head out to explore the abundance of trails and terrains in the area; just a short drive from the cottage is Stock Ghyll Force a glorious 70ft cascading waterfall, awaiting your discovery. If tranquil walks are more your style, Holehird Gardens are within easy reach and boast a delightful array of flora.
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Applethwaite View Troutbeck near Troutbeck Bridge | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 Applethwaite View is a wonderful ground-floor apartment nestled in the Troutbeck valley in Troutbeck near Troutbeck Bridge. The apartment provides guests with views of the unspoilt landscape and ample countryside walking trails, making for a lovely home-from-home for a family of four. Travel a short distance to the centre of Troutbeck to find two friendly pubs to enjoy lunch in, along with walking trails weaving out of the village and through Wansfell Pike and Jenkin Crag. Troutbeck Bridge is where you’ll find the rest of your amenities in one setting, along with ample lakeside activities in the neighbouring settlement of Ecclerigg.
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21 Ironworks Backbarrow near Ulverston | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Enjoying a peaceful location in Backbarrow near Ulverston is this fabulous semi-detached cottage, 21 Ironworks. Showcasing contemporary interiors and views over the River Leven, this a delightful dwelling for a group of six who want to explore the Lake District National Park. Ulverston is not only where you will find your amenities, but it is home to a selection of activities, including: hiking to the Sir John Barrow Monument and Herbert’s Cliff, enjoying a tournament at the town’s esteemed Golf Course, or simply embarking on a stroll through the beautiful Canal Foot Green.
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Fern Bank Penrith | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathroom | Sleeps 8
Fern Bank is a magnificent, detached Grade II listed property, ideally perched in the bustling market town of Penrith in Cumbria. Resting just a short distance from the scenic Lake District National Park, Fern Bank is a superb dwelling for a stylish getaway to the Lakes, boasting an elevated position and easy access to the sights of Dalemain Mansion and Historic Gardens and Carlisle Cathedral.
Hilber Cottage Ambleside | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 5
Tucked away on the iconic Struggle, connecting Kirkstone and Ambleside. Within the sought-after Lake District National Park, rests this charming, white-washed holiday home, Hilber Cottage. Idyllically positioned in a semi-rural setting and framing scenic views across the surrounding countryside to Loughrigg, Hilber Cottage makes for a lovely base for both families and friends looking to explore this picturesque region.
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Town Gate Barn Threlkeld near Keswick | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Town Gate Barn, in Threlkeld, near Keswick, is a popular detached, reverse-level barn conversion.Town Gate Barn accommodates up to six people and has lovely countryside views, making it an ideal location for a family excursion to the Lake District. Threlkeld is a small, bustling village well-worth seeing if you can tear yourself away from this incredible property, with two popular pubs and a community coffee shop just a short walk away serving excellent food.Town Gate Barn is located at the base of Blencathra, providing breathtaking treks right from your front door!
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Hazelnut Cottage Windermere | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8
Hazelnut Cottage is an endearing holiday home located in the hustle and bustle of Windermere, ideal for family and friends who want to explore the Lake District National Park. A short stroll brings you to a wealth of fabulous amenities in the centre of Windermere, home to charming boutique style shops, supermarkets, pubs, pavement café’s and restaurants, as well as local attractions including the World of Beatrix Potter, and a range of watersports, fishing and lake cruises on the exceptional Lake Windermere.
Cottage in the Hill Silecroft | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2
Tucked away down a private driveway encompassed by fresh sea air and pretty countryside lies Cottage in the Hill in Silecroft, Cumbria.This charming annex is ideal for a romantic getaway or a luxurious break with a friend in one of the most picturesque areas of the country. Offering a lovely hot tub, surrounded by a gorgeous drystone wall with fantastic views across open fields, this delightful property is a wonderful base for staying in or venturing out any time of year.
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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 | 015394 88855
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Peter Jones leading night time adventure walk at Brown Robin Credit: Cumbria Wildlife Trust
Wildlife Woodland Workshops
Cumbria Wildlife Trust We are proud to be a corporate partner of this important charity, which looks after much of our wildlife and habitats here in Cumbria. Our autumn spotlight is on Brown Robin nature reserve, near Grange over Sands. You can visit this peaceful limestone woodland any time of the year and its free of charge. Why not support the Cumbria Wildlife Trust by becoming a member?
With fantastic views of Whitbarrow scar, and over the Kent estuary to Arnside, the woodland is full of ash and hazel, with dense yew in places. In the spring you’ll enjoy sweeping wild garlic or ramsons, and bluebells here.
As day turned to dusk, guests enjoyed a walk through the serene woodlands of Brown Robin taking in the sights and sounds of the season, with views of Morecambe Bay glittering in the distance. They spent the evening under-canvas in the hide, carefully positioned on the edge of the woods to overlook a badger sett – the den where they slumber during the day, getting cosy with blankets and cushions, and settling in for some wildlife spotting. With nightvision equipment, the sights of badgers foraging, playing and exploring was easier to see. Bat detectors helped capture the sounds of bat calls – too highpitched for humans to hear –and had a conversation about identifying the different species swooping overhead. Dusk is a great time too for watching deer and foxes roaming through the undergrowth.
Look out for yellow meadow ant hills on Blawith Hill, a tasty treat for the green woodpeckers! You may be lucky enough to see the elusive hawfinches or the resident roe deer. In the autumn especially on Merlewood Bank, you’ll see plenty of colourful waxcap fungi. In the spring, it’s time for a magnificent display of bluebells, wood anemone, wild garlic, wild thyme and primroses and summer brings the wild-flower meadow alive. You may also get to see chiffchaff, blackcap, robin, wren, long-tailed tits, hawfinch and sparrowhawk. This autumn, the Trust have trialled a number of afterdark Woodland Workshops – a wildlife adventure, discovering how nocturnal creatures make the world their own after sun-down here, led by one of the Reserve Officers, and a Woodland Warden.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust are looking to put on more of these events for 2022, so look out for future Cumbria Wildlife Trust events on their website, or join as a member and receive their annual calendar of events.
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Waxcap Fung Credit: Cumbria Wildlife Trust
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21 Coniston Water
A new path for Orrest Head Windermere
Orrest Head appears on many peoples ‘to-do’ list when they arrive in Windermere, not least because its claim to fame is that this is where a certain AW Wainwright stood atop and fell in love with the Lake District, and Windermere glistening in the valley below. “It was a moment of magic, a revelation that changed my life.” AW Wainwright If a place can suffer from being ‘over loved’ then Orrest Head is one of them. For years the footpath teams have toiled away, repairing and replacing the paths, clearing gullies and drains, and ensuring a safe enjoyable visit to this special viewpoint. Over 60,000 people visit each year, and if not managed, the erosion on and around the summit would get worse with the ground being washed away by heavy rain. The pathway to this stunning panoramic viewpoint is just across the road from Windermere station, but the nature of the walk-up means that not everyone can get to see it. The Lake District National Park’s ‘Miles without Stiles’ team took on the task in 2021 of repairing and improving this pathway, and it has recently reopened, aiming to help more people enjoy the fine views from Orrest Head summit, and improving the access for people and families who can’t climb stiles or steps. Perhaps wheelchairs, buggies or simply using a walking stick or assistance tool.
View from Orrest Head
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New benches at Orrest Head
We took a lunchtime walk up both path options to the summit where we discovered: •
Improved signposting on the way up and in Elleray Wood, and we hear there will be more information about the view, local history, and the natural environment.
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New level paths with easier gradients, with two options to get to the summit, both with more level paths. (Please note it is still a fairly steep climb, with some steps on the path through the woods) One of the paths now snakes around so you can miss out on the natural ‘steps’ around the tree roots – this is the route market with the disabled icon at the fingerpost. It is still quite steep!
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New seating on the summit made by local blacksmith artist Chris Brammall of CB Arts Ltd, named The Orrest Head Compass.
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Some of the older benches have been repurposed and new seating will be created on the route up, so you can take a breather and enjoy all the different views. This will have a more organic design, inspired by the branches and roots of the trees in Elleray Wood.
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There are plans for an all-terrain mobility scooter which will be available in Windermere and some new seating on the ‘terrace’ area just by the kissing gate.
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The Gruffalo is still in the woodland to be enjoyed by everyone!
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As is the beautiful slate topograph at the top which points out the amazing vista of the fells beyond.
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Wansfell at Lipwood House Windermere | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 Wansfell At Lipwood House is an outstanding twobedroom first-floor apartment set in the picturesque town of Windemere in Cumbria. Enjoying a stunning setting within the Lake District National Park and a beautiful contemporary décor with feature artwork, Wansfell At Lipwood House makes for a fantastic home-away-fromhome for a group of friends or small family of four to enjoy a country escape in the heart of the Lakes. For the thrill seekers, Lake Windemere is the place to be, with a wide variety of watersports on offer including sailing, wakesurfing and kneeboarding to name a few, as well as the regular boat tours which frequently take place. Be sure to make a stop at Blackwell, an impressive 19th-century house filled with an array of furniture and objects or head to the National Trust Claife Viewing Station where you can soak up the fantastic surrounding scenery on a 4-mile ambling trail.
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SIMON ROGAN Our Farm
John Rowland and Simon Rogan
Chef and restaurateur Simon Rogan is renowned the world over for being at the forefront of the UK’s farm to fork movement, which comes as no surprise when you learn that he established his own farm in 2013. The 12-acre site on the fringes of Cartmel, known as Our Farm, is dedicated to producing quality, fresh ingredients that simply can’t be bought from suppliers. Growing for restaurants like Simon’s is a very precise process, utilising techniques his team of gardeners have perfected over the last eight years.
The resident Our Farm team are nurtured by head farmer John Rowland, a native of the valleys of South Wales. During his career, John has worked with an impressive collection of chefs, including the likes of Deano Westcar, Nigel Keller-Godwin and Elly Wentworth.
John didn’t hesitate in saying yes and began working in the hotel’s Italian gardens almost straight away, helping with the orchard and herb gardens, as well as working with chef Richard Davies growing produce for the restaurant. This is where John developed his interest in growing, and over nine years he worked his way through the ranks to become head grower. Following this he went on to work alongside chef John Campbell at The Woodspeen, Newbury and later chef Leigh Evans at the Methuen Arms, Corsham, producing crops for their kitchens. John may have started out as groundsman, but years later he has become one of the UK’s leading plantsmen, propagating and nurturing edible plants for one of the UK’s leading chefs.
Interestingly though John didn’t set out to be a gardener, but his pathway into farming came about following his role as a green keeper at a golf course in Wiltshire, part of the Manor House Hotel estate in Castle Coombe. It was here where he was approached and asked if he would be interested in working in the hotel’s gardens.
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John and Simon Rogan share similar passions, for the environment, sustainable farming and obviously for their immediate surroundings. As soon as they met the pair hit it off, and ever since they have set about revolutionising growing practices at the farm and experimenting with new and interesting produce.
and deep-seated understanding of seasonal growing cycles, the need for biodiversity, organic farming methodologies and an insight into how to minimise the impact on both the local and wider environment surrounding the farm is imperative The efforts towards sustainable farming demonstrated by Simon, John and team is why earlier this year L’Enclume received a new accolade from Michelin, in the form of a Green Star, and presented at this year’s Michelin Guide UK awards. The new award specifically recognises the efforts made in preserving resources, embracing biodiversity, reducing food waste and the consumption of non-renewable energy, as well as managing the overall impact of restaurant operations on the environment.
Each year John and his team grow a core range of plants for the kitchens on a rotational basis, including, vegetables, fruits, herbs and edible flowers. Alongside those crops they also sow a number of experimental plant varieties, which once they are ready for harvest, are sent over to Aulis, Simon’s development kitchen and chef’s table in Cartmel. This is where his chefs try out new varieties, see how they interact with the other ingredients on the plate, look at which produce the best flavours, the most appropriate textures and best colour profiles for specific dishes in development.
As you may appreciate by now, John and his team of fellow growers have had a significant part to play in this process and can be hugely proud of what they have achieved in bringing the very best seasonally-grown produce to the restaurant table, whilst continuing to grow sustainably and minimising any impact on the environment.
Despite being located in the north of England and the challenges that present themselves in terms of rain, soil quality and the like, Our Farm is a seven day a week operation producing crops 365 days of the year, utilising organic and natural farming principles to produce exemplary produce for use in Simon’s restaurants.
Put simply, this is farming at the highest level, which is why Simon, and his team of growers lead the way in the UK’s farm to fork movement.
Growing at this level isn’t about leafing through seed catalogues, lovely as that might be. It’s an exacting science, it’s about getting hands on and nurturing thousands of seedlings to adulthood, understanding the limitations of a specific growing site, crop yields and the factors that can influence that; understanding the impact soil make-up can have on flavour, texture, colour and crop longevity. As well as having a full
Our Farm
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Chrysantheium and red mustard cress - Our Farm
John’s Top Autumn Tips With the advent of autumn and when your crops are all finally lifted, it’s a good idea to cover your garden beds in well-rotted farm yard manure or other compost. This will help protect your soil and feeds it at the same time. The worms will digest your manure or compost and take it down into your soil, with the help of the winter weather breaking it down. The coldest months are the perfect time to prune your fruit trees and bushes when the sap is at its lowest. But that only applies to fruit trees and bushes that have a pip in the fruit. (Trees that have a stone should be pruned in the summer months either before or just after flowering). There are many reasons why pruning is necessary, airflow, removal of dead or dying branches, to prevent disease, to create better shape and fruit production. It is always good to look up what species of fruit tree you’re planning on pruning, so you cut back to the requirements of that particular fruit. John Rowland
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The
LODGE
COLLECTION
Limefitt Park Ben Bush Photography
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Broad Oak Lodge Limefitt Park, Windermere | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Located in Limefitt Holiday Park, near the lakeside town of Windermere, is this lodge, Broad Oak Lodge. Set over a single-storey and sleeping up to six guests, Broad Oak Lodge is a contemporary and well-kept setting for your next adventure to the Lake District, within easy reach of Ambleside and Kendal. On-site there is plenty for all the family to enjoy from children’s activities, swimming pools and a on site pub/restaurant but if you can tear yourself away, the beautiful lakeside town of Windermere is just a short drive and has a range of shops and restaurants, whilst a little further is Ambleside which offers a boat ride to Bowness, the Lakeside Aquarium and Beatrix Potter’s ‘Hill Top House’ at Sawrey.
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The Fold Keswick | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Welcome to High Borrans Percy - The little Shepherd’s Hut Tucked away on a peaceful holiday park, on the outskirts of Keswick, you will find The Fold. A beautiful wooden lodge, surrounded by the breath-taking scenery of the Lake District National Park, this humble abode is suited to family and friends alike. The centre of Keswick sits right on your doorstep, boasting attraction such as the Derwent Pencil Museum, Puzzling Place and the Keswick Museum, whilst the captivating Threlkeld Quarry and Mining museum is just a pleasant stroll away.
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Grizedale Lodge White Cross Bay, Windermere | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathroom Sleeps 6 | Pet Friendly Discover this beautifully-appointed lodge amidst White Cross Bay Holiday Park, within striking distance of Lake Windermere and the endearing village of Troutbeck Bridge. This single-storey accommodation enjoys a pretty woodland setting, making a lovely natural environment for a family holiday to this part of the Lake District, renowned for its outdoor pursuits. Windermere town centre is just a short distance away too, where you will find even more shops and eateries, as well as a number of attractions including the Windermere Jetty Museum, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction and the Brockhole House and Garden, offering fun for all ages and tastes.
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Squirrels Leap Keswick | 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 2 | Pet Friendly Squirrels Leap is a charming log cabin hosting the ideal spot in the great outdoors, with Keswick town centre just moments away and all the Lake District has to offer surrounding you. This lovely pine lodge is fully equipped for you and your loved one to enjoy all the delights of the area in peace and comfort, with wonderful views of the Lakeland Fells and the foothills of Skiddaw and Latrigg mountains within easy reach. You can saunter into Keswick and find many things to do, including visiting the local shops and pubs, some excellent parks and even the Pencil Museum. Derwentwater is worth a visit to admire the scenery and walks there, as well as Ullswater and Aira Force Waterfall, offering the perfect setting for nature observing.
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34 Howe Top
we Top
Howe Top Bowness-on-Windermere | 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10 Proudly positioned in the breath-taking landscapes of the Lake District National Park, overlooking the beautiful waters of Windermere, Howe Top is a large and luxurious home offering the ultimate escape to Cumbria. Hosting five fabulous super-king-size bedrooms, this stylish abode is the perfect choice for a family or group of ten seeking a relaxing retreat to the countryside. Spend your evenings entertaining friends and family in the beautiful open-plan living space, cooking up a storm in the gorgeous white kitchen whilst friends gather at the dining table with a delicious bottle of wine. Head outside to the balcony for a dip in the hot tub, or snuggle close together on the plush corner sofa as you watch entertaining movies on the Smart TV. 35
Hawthorn Gardens Kendal | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4 Resting on a tranquil housing estate just outside of Kendal and a short walk from Carus Green Golf Club, Hawthorn Gardens is a beautifully finished semi-detached holiday home for four guests. This wonderful Lakeland base is the perfect pick for a golfing getaway and walkers retreat combined, benefitting from a beautiful enclosed garden and off-road parking. Kendal is a pretty town with cobbled streets and a host of amenities, with well-established restaurants to visit on nights off from cooking, traditional pubs serving refreshing pints post-ramble, and shops and supermarkets for all you need. Walk up to the ruins of Kendal Castle, a 12th century fortress overlooking the town, and learn of the Lakes’ history at Lakeland Museum, while The Abbot Hall Art Gallery is perfect for any culture vultures.
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Cherry Trees Bowness-on-Windermere | 5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10 Built to impress, Cherry Trees is an imposing Victorian Gentleman’s residence that stands grandly on the hillside overlooking Lake Windermere on the edge of the village of Bowness-On-Windermere. When the architect conceived the design over 120 years ago the key focus of the property was to maximise the views to the lake, which can be seen from virtually every room in the house, and when the sun shines step outside and enjoy the views from the sun terrace, patio or the hot tub.
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The Lake District Village Guide
Windermere
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The village of Windermere is a busy, bustling town, and some might say the heartbeat of the South Lake District and has been attracting visitors since Victorian times. Beatrix Potter & William Wordsworth both wrote about this area, and the wonder of England’s largest lake. It’s a great place to base yourself for fantastic scenery, walks and viewpoints, and the shores of the lake just a straight mile walk downhill. Windermere is an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops, and is busy and bustling all year round. It is also home to the only train station in the heart of the Lake District: Windermere Station, with connections to Oxenholme and the West Coast mainline. Autumn here brings the changing colours, and different weathers but always warm hospitality.
Where to walk
Jetty at Millerground, Windermere
Orrest Head Just across the road from here, you’ll see the entrance to the gentle hike up Orrest Head: the famous landmark with breathtaking views up and down the Lake, and the place which first inspired a certain AW Wainwright to begin his Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Hills. Millerground A short lakeside amble, but with fabulous views right across the lakeshore and beyond. There are a few parking spaces close to it on Rayrigg Road, or you can simply walk from either Windermere or Bowness centres. To Bowness-on-Windermere Get your best foot forward and enjoy a 1-mile stroll straight down the main street and you’ll reach the bustling town of Bowness, and the glittering lake. Bowness even has a cinema and lots of places to browse, eat and drink and stop a while. If you don’t want to walk back, there are plenty of buses and taxis. Bowness-on-Windermere sits on the lakeshore and is home to many different water activities, with several marinas and sailing clubs dotted along the shoreline, and steamers and launches cruise from here all over the lake. Viewpoint at Hammarbank This is an easily accessible viewpoint close to Millerground on Rayrigg Road. It’s a little carpark/layby just off the road, but a great place for a view a selfie, and very often an ice-cream!
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What not to miss
Food and Drink
Brockhole Visitor Centre A 5-minute drive or 2 mile walk from Windermere is Brockhole Visitor Centre, an amazing place to spend a day. Here you’ll find adventure playground, Tree Top Trek, cafes and restaurants and shops, boat and kayak hire, and archery, pony trekking and walks. The steamers stop here too so you can hop on and off as you explore. Lakeland This fabulous homeware shop has its HQ flagship store in Windermere, and stocks innovative gadgets and cooking utensils. It sits next to Windermere Station and has a fabulous café too. Peter Hall & Son This family business has been designing and making beautiful things mainly out of wood, and restoring antique furniture, since 1972. Their shop on the high street in Windermere is full of gorgeous objects, some made by them and by other craftspeople. stocks innovative gadgets and cooking utensils. It sits next to Windermere Station and has a fabulous café too. Brockhole Thomas Mawson Garden
Homeground Some of the best coffee around, homemade cakes and amazing home-made breakfasts, salads, and lunches. They are walk-ins only; no bookings so take your chance and get there early! Bandito Burrito An unfussy café offering Mexican specialities, vegan dishes, and coffees, plus take out option. The Little Ice Cream Shop Handmade delicious gelato in Windermere often sees queues down the street! The Lamplighter A traditional, family run British restaurant with highly acclaimed Sunday lunches, afternoon teas and a cosy atmosphere. There is also a large outdoor seating area with plenty of undercover space.
Homeground Cafe
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Lakelovers
Top Pick in Windermere
Upper Sheriff’s Place Windermere | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6 Nestled between the twin towns of Bowness and Windermere, Cumbria, is this fabulous two-storey apartment, Upper Sheriff’s Place. Located over the first and second floors of a three-storey building, Upper Sheriff’s Place is the perfect abode for a group of friends or family to enjoy a holiday in the heart of the Lake District.
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Ghost Hauntings in Keswick and Cockermouth
Lakeland hauntings will give you goosebumps on your trip to the Lakes with Ghost Tours in Keswick and Cockermouth, 2 of our beautiful and historic market towns. There are lots of spooky stories to tell so follow “The Lady’ if you dare.
The Keswick & Cockermouth Ghost Walks take place on pavements and public footpaths around the town centre and park. There are a few steps and slight inclines so if you have any mobility concerns, please call 07949 909365 for advice.
Keswick has a history full of murder, intrigue, and tortured souls. From slate-built houses to the surrounding lakes and fells this is an area steeped in legend and mystery.
Walks last about 1 hour 30 minutes. There are no facilities en route. Tickets must be booked in advance.
Experience the darker side of Cockermouth, a historic town, and the childhood home of William Wordsworth, with a hidden past lurking in the shadows of the Georgian splendour. Be brave and join “The Lady” as she tells tales of “Boggles ‘n sec lyke” for a very Cumbrian haunting. Keswick Ghost Walks start and end at The Moot Hall, Keswick, CA12 5JR. Cockermouth Ghost Walks start and end at The Bush, Main Street. CA13 9JS.
£10 Adults, £8 Concessions (16 years and under or over 65 years) Dogs: Well-behaved dogs on short leads are very welcome. There are no loud bangs. Please ensure the presence of your dog does not detrimentally affect the enjoyment of others on the walk. There are several public car parks within a 5-minute walk of both Keswick and Cockermouth town centres. As The Lady tells us: ‘Ghost walks are for all year round, not just Halloween’.
Keswick and Cockermouth Ghost Walks are written with an adult audience in mind - but can be enjoyed by children 10 years and above. Please ensure that children are suitably dressed for the conditions.
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43 Ullswater
Kent Cottage Lorton | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 5
Described by many of our guests as one of the best cottages they have stayed in and as a wonderfully relaxing place to return to after a day exploring the Lake District, Kent Cottage is a delightful and cosy Grade II listed property dating back to 1760. Full of character and recently refurbished it is an ideal base for walking and cycling the western valleys of the National Park.
Gillside Newlands Valley | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathroom | Sleeps 8
Imagine waking up to one of the most outstanding panoramic views in the Lake District - with the luxury of enjoying it for a full week. Picture yourself dining al fresco while taking in the enormity of the rolling hills and mountains such as Cat bells, Robinson, Causey Pike all-encompassing the town of Keswick and Derwentwater. Gillside is situated in the village of Milbeck which nestles at the foot of the south facing slope of Skiddaw two miles from Keswick.
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How End Braithwaite | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 9 How End is a fantastic cottage, situated in an elevated location in the fabulous village of Braithwaite and boasts panoramic views of the Skiddaw Range from most windows.This spacious cottage comfortably sleeps 8 and is sure to appeal to families or groups of friends who wish to explore the Lake District.Stunning views and scenery await you! How End is an outstanding and characterful 18th century cottage situated in an elevated position in the popular lakeland village of Braithwaite and boasts sweeping panoramic views of the Skiddaw range whilst embracing Bassenthwaite Lake and the beautiful countryside.
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Endymion House Keswick | 6 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12 | Pet Friendly
Endymion House is a rare find amongst Lakeland holiday properties and is without doubt one of the most elegant period properties available in the area. A rare example of the Art Deco design of the 1930’s Endymion House is still offering a real wow factor today. The moment you step inside you will immediately feel like you are on an Agatha Christie film set, a theme which continues throughout the house.
Blease Garth Threlkeld | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Sleeps 4 | Pet Friendly
Blease Garth is a quaint lakeland cottage for up to 4 people with many traditional features and dates back to the early 1800s. It is set against the spectacular backdrop of Blencathra in a peaceful position, having a rural outlook towards the valley. It is ideally situated for low and high level walks, mountain biking and dog walking.
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Graythwaite Adventure Experience, explore, escape.
We caught up with Sara, who along with her partner Tim, run the award-winning Graythwaite adventures, based in an idyllic setting on the west side of the shores of Windermere.
groups, and clients: all our guests leave with a sense of adventure and happy memories for years to come. There is something about sharing unique experiences, knowledge not to mention a slice of wood-fired pizza and a cold beer on the lakeshore that creates a wonderful snapshot in time and lots of smiles on faces.
Tell us about what you do? We’ve been designing, organising, and delivering events and experiences since the 1990s and have now firmly settled where we both grew up – in the Lake District. We’ve created a programme of outdoor challenges and activities, and our guests can enjoy a fabulous selection from clay pigeon shooting, archery, axe-throwing, canoeing, paddleboarding, bushcraft, RIB rides, drive ‘n dine experiences, estate picnics, and lots more! We’re proud to have designed and built the Lake District’s only purpose-built off-road course, with BORDA (British Off Road Driving Association) accreditation, and qualified instructors, offering expert tuition, full exhilaration, and the bonus of unrivaled views from the summit. Our shooting site is the perfect place to learn and practice skills with drinks and snacks served from the lodge and a roaring fire pit to toast marshmallows, and if water is your things, we have a great selection to enjoy, from the quiet bays of the estate. What sort of people do you attract? We absolutely welcome everyone – and funnily enough, everyone loves it! Couples, families, corporate
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What next? We were delighted win Cumbria Tourisms’ Experience of the Year’ 2019 – and obviously, 2020 and 2021 have been challengingly different for us all! Our aim is just to keep doing what we love best – sharing our beloved Lake District and our passion for all things outdoor, with as many people as possible and giving them lasting memories and perhaps light a flame in them to go and do more with the great outdoors. Book your Graythwaite Adventure here and take a 5% discount simply quote LL2021 or use it when you book online.
AUTUMN 2021 Derwentwater
