Wordsworth Grasmere

Enjoy your perfect Lake District day out at Wordsworth Grasmere

At Wordsworth Grasmere, step into another century as you experience the home of great poet, William Wordsworth.

William and his family lived in this charming Lake District cottage from 1799-1808. It was during this time he created some of his most radical and famous poetry, and his sister Dorothy kept her fascinating Grasmere journal. Today, Dove Cottage evokes the sights, sounds and smells of over 200 years ago. Moments taken from the Wordsworths’ poems, journals and letters have been recreated, telling the story of their lives here. In this time of

‘plain living and high thinking’, the pedestrian domesticity of everyday life mixed with the extraordinary.

Explore the cottage at your leisure, sit on the window seats, and pick up objects and manuscripts as you imagine a simpler time.

Stroll through the Garden-Orchard behind Dove Cottage, which has been restored to resemble the ‘domestic slip of mountain’ that William and Dorothy lovingly created. Wordsworth described this humble fell-side garden as ‘the loveliest spot man hath ever found’ and the feelings of joy, comfort and inspiration it provided can still be felt in this special place. Whether you encounter bluebells in spring or snowdrops in winter, the Garden-Orchard is stunning in all seasons, and it is easy to understand the inspiration it provided for William’s poetry. Play and explore in the Woodland, a wild and relaxed space.

When William Wordsworth arrived in Grasmere as a young man of 29, he was largely unknown and was writing innovative poetry that came as a shocking contrast to the fashionable verses of the time. His poetry centred on the ideals of love of Nature, the power of the imagination and the importance of empathy for others. This was poetry for a new age, and his writing still has the power to speak to us today.

In our interactive Museum, follow the story of Wordsworth’s radical and creative life through a collection of manuscripts, letters, and objects. Get up-close to paintings by Turner and Girtin, view beautiful and intricate Bewick prints, and even see William’s life mask, created by Benjamin Robert Hayden.

The Museum features contemporary voices that vary from Ian McKellen to people living and working in Cumbria today, alongside remarkable scenery of the Lake District.

There are hands on things to do for all ages, including quill and ink writing and a Wordsworth-inspired Minecraft. The little ones can play Georgian games, engage with seasonal activities, and dress up like William and Dorothy! We have family trails throughout the site, to encourage exploration and play.

Enjoy a break in our café, which sits at the heart of the historical hamlet overlooking Dove Cottage, and serves locally sourced cakes, hot drinks and savoury snacks. Try your hand at poetry with our thoughtful prompts, or if poetry isn’t your cup of tea, why not cosy up with a book from our bookshelf? With a gift shop to peruse, popular walks from our doorstep and parking available, we are the perfect place to meet friends and family.

Browse our shop, which has a fantastic selection of books, art supplies, and gifts for all the family. Find something special to remind you of your visit to Wordsworth Grasmere. Add a little something extra to your visit by trying one of our guided activities, which are free with the price of admission. From gallery tours to nature journaling, there is something different on offer each day of the week.

Experience the wonders of our Special Exhibition, which changes throughout the year, showcasing different elements of our internationally important collection.

Finish your visit atop the Viewing Station, where you can take a moment to reflect and appreciate the beautiful Grasmere vale, which Wordsworth described as ‘paradise’.

Admission tickets are valid for 12 months, so you can visit as many times as you like!