Beatrix’s Lake District

Beatrix Potter is one of the Lake District’s much-loved literary icons, not only as a children’s author of the ‘The Tales of’ but also a farmer, conservationist and businesswoman. Originally from London, she moved here after visiting as a child and falling in love with the Lake District.

Hill Top, in the village of Far Sawrey, is the house she bought with the proceeds of her most famous book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit. It is full of fascinating artifacts, a dolls house, clocks and furniture and you can almost imagine Beatrix sat in front of the fire writing, whilst Mr. MacGregor tends the lovely cottage garden. It is cared for by the National Trust and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The National Trust also care for the Beatrix Potter Gallery in the centre of Hawkshead, which was originally William Heelis’ solicitors office, who became her husband.

2020 sees 125 years of the National Trust, and Beatrix had a big part to play in its development. Her friend and lifelong mentor, Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, was one

of the founding fathers of the Trust, and after a lifetime’s interest and activity in farming and conservation, she left 16 farms and acres of land to the Trust in her will, really kick-starting the land conservation movement here in the Lakes.

There are so many places to discover different sides to Beatrix: One of our favourites include Wray Castle, the dramatic, gothic turreted castle on the shores of Windermere; where Beatrix used to go for childhood holidays. Head here for lakeshore walks and cycle rides, with fabulous views over the Lake; informal grounds to run around in, and lots of indoor places to explore, along with a café and shop – a real family friendly place to spend an afternoon.

Hill Top & Beatrix Potter gallery in Far Sawrey & Hawkshead both immerse you in Beatrix, her life, her collections, her writing and her passions of the outdoors and Herdwick sheep farming. You could spend the day wandering around these two places, enjoy a coffee in Hawkshead, and perhaps lunch or a pint by the fire at the Tower Bank Arms next door to Hill Top, where a certain Jemima Puddleduck used to frequent.

Whilst in the Windermere area, head to Bowness to discover the World of Beatrix Potter – a great place for children of all ages, with shop and café. This summer sees the third year of the ‘Where is Peter Rabbit?’ musical in the Old Laundry Theatre which is a great way of finding out about Beatrix’s story by song and dance. If you’re a big fan of the Rabbit himself, the newest Peter Rabbit film: Peter Rabbit 2 the Runaway is out on 27 March, with James Corden starring again in the leading role as Peter.

The Lingholm Kitchen on the shores of Derwentwater is a beautiful spot, with great food, coffee and views. It’s another place where Beatrix used to stay as a child, and where she was inspired to write The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin and Benjamin Bunny. The countryside further afield around Catbells and the Newlands valley inspired her Tale of Mrs. Tiggywinkle.

So, go on, unleash the child in you, explore the Lakes in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter and see where you end up and what new things you can discover.

Beck View

Sleeps 6 | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms

At the foot of Mell Fell and benefitting from beautiful uninterrupted views across Blencathra, Great Dodd and the rolling hills of the North Lake District, Beck View is a beautifully appointed detached Lakeland Cottage dating back to the 1800’s but with all the modern conveniences for the perfect relaxing Lake District holiday.

With easy access to the open hills, Ullswater and the market town of Keswick, Beck View is ideally placed to explore the Lake District and all it has to offer, whatever the time of year.

From £795 for 7 nights Short breaks available