Arguably the most famous village in the Lake District, Grasmere is a place of immense natural beauty and rich literary history. Nestled in a stunning valley and surrounded by fells, it's a must-visit destination for its connections to the poet William Wordsworth and, of course, the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
Things to Do
Dove Cottage & Wordsworth Museum: Step back in time at Wordsworth's beautifully preserved first family home. The adjacent world-class museum offers a fascinating insight into the poet's life and work.
Grasmere Gingerbread Shop: No visit is complete without queuing for this world-famous treat. Baked to a secret recipe since 1854, it's a unique spicy-sweet cross between a biscuit and a cake.
St. Oswald's Church: Visit the Wordsworth family graves in the peaceful churchyard, which sits beside the River Rothay.
Walks for All: Enjoy a gentle stroll around Grasmere lake or tackle the more challenging ascent of Helm Crag (The Lion and the Lamb) for spectacular views over the valley.
Where to Eat
From cosy pubs to fine dining, Grasmere has something for every palate.
The Good Sport: A popular and historic pub offering classic pub fare, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect after a long walk.
Tweedies Bar: Known for its huge selection of craft beers and a fantastic, vibrant beer garden, Tweedies also serves excellent food.
Lucia's Coffee + Bakehouse: A great spot for artisan coffee, delicious cakes, and light lunches, with a lovely sunny terrace.
Where to Stay
Grasmere is packed with charming places to stay, from luxurious hotels to cosy guesthouses.
The Wordsworth Hotel & Spa: An elegant country house hotel offering luxury rooms, fine dining, and spa facilities right in the heart of the village.
Holiday Cottages: Experience village life like a local by renting one of the many traditional slate cottages available.
Rothay Garden Hotel: A stylish, modern hotel on the edge of the village with beautiful riverside gardens and an award-winning restaurant.
Getting There
By Car: Grasmere is located on the main A591 road that runs through the heart of the Lake District, connecting Ambleside and Keswick. Parking in the village is limited and can be very busy.
By Public Transport: The nearest train station is Windermere. From there, the 555 and 599 bus services run regularly, providing a scenic and convenient link to Grasmere.