Remaining largely untouched for the past 300 years Hawkshead has all the charm and character of the perfect village.
With its whitewashed houses, cobbled alleyways, courtyards and squares, Hawkshead is often referred to as one of the most picturesque villages in the Lake District.
The centre of the village is closed to through traffic, which makes it a pleasure to explore and browse in the shops. Refreshment is at hand in the several historic teashops and Inns dotted throughout the village, where you can relax and let the world go by.
Hawkshead was once an important medieval town and the centre of the woollen industry in North Lancashire, so it is not surprising to find many beautiful and interesting buildings of architectural importance in the village. However, behind it's tourist image there is a living community full of history and tradition, with a strong literary heritage.
With plenty to see and plenty to do for all the family, why not make Hawkshead your home – even for a day – and discover this special place. You are sure to return time and time again.
Founded in 1585 by the Archbishop of York, it is now a museum, whose main attraction is that of its most famous pupil, William Wordsworth.
Situated in the centre of the village in the old offices of her husband, William Heelis, with an exhibition, which changes annually, of Beatrix Potter’s work.
Dating from 1500’s, St Michael's majestically overlooks the village. The oak timbered roof and wall paintings are some of its finest points. Local venue for Lake District Summer Music Festival.
A place of worship since 1862, making it the oldest such church in the world. (For other local places of worship see our church trail.)
A lovely walk from Hawkshead and a great place for a picnic, with its scenic backdrop of Coniston Old Man, around to the Langdales and the Fairfield Horseshoe.
Grizedale Forest is just south of the village, here there are great walks for all abilities, including specially designed routes for wheelchair and pushchair users, and the kids will love the sculpture trail. Fantastic Mountain Bike trails along with Go-Ape for the adrenaline junkies
