Scale Hill Recommends

The Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater

This charming pub is a local bolthole. Famous for it’s Loweswater Gold Pale Ale (delicious), this is a cosy Inn situated in the shadow of Melbreak. It has a beer garden, and it is perfect for an end-of-the-walk Pint. The bar is plentiful and includes local Gin’s, Vodka’s, as well as typical pub favourites. They also serve great food (the puddings come highly recommended) and they have options for Vegetarians, and a Gluten-Free menu. Because it is cosy inside, you may have to wait (or book) to get a table, especially if there is more than a couple of you. We like to take a pack of cards to play various silly games. Our favourite place to sit is on the table next to the 2p coins that have been varnished into the alcove.

Honister Slate Mine, Honister Pass

Want to see some amazing views? Feeling Brave? Try the Via Ferrata at Honister Slate Mine. This is a truly exhilarating experience not for the faint-hearted!

Located at the head of Honister Pass, the Slate Mine offers a range of indoor and outdoor adventures for a range of ages and abilities. Honister is the last working slate mine in England and home to the iconic Westmorland Green Slate. For those who prefer adventures of a more tranquil (and educational) nature, there is a Mine Tour (highly recommended). For Walking types there are some great routes from this head of the valley. Park at Gatesgarth (Car Park £4) or at the Top of Honister and get up onto Wainwright’s favourite mountain - Haystacks, or to the North of Honister Pass, you can climb Dale Head.

Syke Farm Tea Room, Buttermere

Syke Farm Tearoom is one of the two café's in Buttermere, (the other being Croft House Farm). It is located at the top of the village just below St James’ Church (which is well worth a visit - it has some beautiful memorials and plaques inside). Whilst the Tearoom is well known for its vast variety of home-made cakes, pastry's and lunches it is most famous for it’s home-made ice cream which is made from their own Buttermere Ayrshire Cows on site. Delicious and varied flavours from Dark Cherry, to Honeycomb, to usual favourites such as Strawberry and Vanilla. We have been known to walk here, just for an ice-cream. (Don’t tell anyone.)

Lorton Village Shop

“A Shed With A View” is how Lee describes this absolute gem of a Village Shop. This is the closest shop to Scale Hill for you to purchase essentials and thoughtful local produce. We love the Eunice & Blue Goats Milk Soap which is made locally and sold here, as well as the freshly made bread, eggs and milk - all delivered daily. You’ll find local cheeses, locally grown salad leaves (that haven’t been flown in via Schipol Airport), dipped wax candles, flat whites (yes, they have a ‘proper’ coffee machine!) treats, including Green & Blacks chocolate, as well as organic essentials from the Suma Co-operation range. Oh, and Ice-creams.

As a matter of fact, there’s too much to mention. Just go and see for yourself!

The Kingfisher, Keswick

There’s one member of our family who you could say is the worlds biggest fan of Fish & Chips. As a result of following various Rugby matches over the years, we have tried pretty much all chip shops from here, to Kirby Lonsdale, and we can tell you, the Kingfisher does a very tasty portion of Cod & Chips. Curry Sauce and Mushy Peas Optional. Smackings of Salt & Vinegar Compulsory.

John Watt & Son, Carlisle

Coffee Roasters & Tea Blenders. John Watt & Son have roasted Coffee in Carlisle since their original shop opened in Glovers Row in 1865 and their blending recipes are closely guarded secrets which have evolved and been handed down over the past 150 years. Read all about their fascinating history before going to visit their cafe on Bank Street in Carlisle. It is a wonderful experience that has hints of a bye-gone era! We are very proud to supply complimentary Tea, Coffee and Hot Chocolate Flakes for all of our Guests, which you can see here. We provide a packet of their Armistice Memorial Blend Tea which won 2-Stars in the 2018 Great Taste Awards, meaning that this is classified as an “outstanding” brew. Also in each cottage is a packet of their Nicaragua Single Origin Fairtrade Coffee which has won 1-Star in the 2017 Great Taste Awards. For those days when you get back from walking on the fells, and all you can think about is a hot drink, we also have their Hot Chocolate Flakes which you can mix into Hot Milk. Delicious! All of their products come in recycled, re-sealable packaging and they also run the cafe at Carlisle Castle, so you will be able to taste their fantastic blends if you go and visit the English Heritage Site.

The Alhambra Cinema, Keswick

We’ve done the leg time on Cinemas. Trust us. Our DVD collection at Scale Hill is testament to how much we love going to the pictures. (We like it very much.)

Our Conclusion: The Alhambra knocks the socks off every other cinema experience.

Built in 1913 the Keswick Alhambra Cinema is one of the very few Cinemas in the UK that has been in continuous operation for over 100 years. It remained open throughout WWI, and again during WWII, entertaining the tourists and locals of Keswick.

In 2019, following a successful Crowd-Funding campaign, they restored the auditorium to its former glory, revealing and highlighting unique original features that had been hidden under a century of paint. And boy, does it look good. Stained Glass on the Windows of almost every door - even the Ladies Toilets! Original cast-iron radiators. Fancy lights. You name it, it’s like going back in time to 1913, in every way (apart from the confectionary.)

There is a huge selection of sweets, chocolates, popcorn, coffees, teas, fizzy drinks, and they also have an alcohol licence. You’ll have to play rock-paper-scissors to decide who is driving home. The Ushers even bring ice-creams out just before the film starts. We like to sit upstairs in the balcony but the stalls are just as good, especially since all of the seats have been painstakingly and lovingly re-upholstered in a deep, plush, red velvet.

The real test is having to get out of them at the end.

The Square Orange, Keswick

This little gem of a place is just down from the Cinema on St John’s Street. Established in 1998, The Square Orange’s aim was to bring a taste of the continental café bar culture to the Lake District.

With guest wines from family run vineyards, local microbreweries offered alongside Belgian and German beers, rotating coffee blends from Cumbrian Roasteries as well as sourcing further afield flavours from India & South America, they pride themselves on using a wide range of authentic and high quality suppliers.

In the morning they serve Coffees & Pastries. There’s always a decadent Cake glancing at you whilst you order. In the afternoon, they make fresh stone-baked Pizzas (better than Naples, in our opinion), and these are served throughout the day and into the evening, along with a varied and ever-changing Tapas menu.

We recommend you book as it does get busy, and if they reach capacity they do the continental thing and turn the ‘OPEN’ sign to ‘CLOSED’ until they have got on top of their orders again. Which is fine if you’re inside eating Pizza, but if you’re outside and it’s raining (and you’re hungry) not so much.

There are a few chairs outside, but you really want to be inside on their Church Pews because there is a large imposing bar, which is great to look at, stacked with all types of alcohols, cordials and liqueurs. It’s also brilliant for people watching. Live music at the weekends. Great atmosphere, and even better Pizza.

Need we say more?

Lens District Gallery, Keswick

Stuart McGlennon Photography

Having started in photography at the turn of 2016, Stuart quickly developed a passion for the outdoors and finally after 30-odd years of his life started fully appreciating the truly amazing landscape on his doorstep in The Lake District National Park (his words not ours!)

Stuart has won multiple awards in both national and international competitions, such as UK Landscape Photographer Of The Year (highly commended/commended 4 times and recently winning the Sunday Times Magazine Award in 2018) and Outdoor Photographer Of The Year (appearing twice) and most recently Commended in International Garden Photographer Of The Year.

In 2018, he opened his photographic gallery in Keswick - the Lens District Gallery. He’s been published in many major publications and magazines, as well as providing artwork for major clients such as John Lewis. Stuart has kindly provided some of the fantastic images that you can see around this website, and he regularly runs workshops, 1-to-1 tuition days, post-processing tuition as well as working on commission-based projects. Go and see his fantastic Gallery on Borrowdale Road in Keswick where you can buy wonderful prints to take home with you.

Grasmere Gingerbread

Sometime in the winter of 1854 Sarah Nelson perfected a recipe for a new spicy-sweet sensation that she named simply Grasmere Gingerbread®. She mixed and baked her spicy-sweet chewy concoction inside her neat Church Cottage home – now The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop – and sold it, wrapped in parchment, to villagers and tourists from a table top on a tree stump outside her front door. This quaint single storey building that Sarah and her husband Wilfred lived in had been built by public subscription in 1630. Read the fascinating history of Sarah Nelson and Grasmere Gingerbread here.

Officially registered as ‘None Genuine Without Trademark’, the launch of Grasmere Gingerbread® coincided with the development and expansion of the railways and the boom in Victorian visitors to the Lake District. As the 19th century wore on and Sarah was formally established as ‘Baker and Confectioner of Church Cottage, Grasmere’ – forerunner of The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop today – she safeguarded her secret handwritten recipe in a local bank vault.

Nowadays the recipe is still guarded under lock and key, and you can go into the (very small!) shop and find an array of beautiful products (there is a Ginger theme that runs through the place…) The Shop Assistants are aptly dressed in Victorian Costumes, which allows you to be transported back to a bye-gone era, which is utterly delightful. According to these bonnet-clad ladies even Tom Cruise has visited… parking his sports car outside, naturally.

“The Mission Impossible star was absolutely charming, enthused about the ambience of the shop interior and promised to return (which he did a few days later)”

Mission Accomplished.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway is one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England, known affectionately as La’al Ratty meaning “little railway“ in olde Cumbrian dialect. It was 105 years ago in April 1913 that the original 3ft line closed and in 1915 the new 15in La’al Ratty was born. Their heritage steam engines transport passengers from Ravenglass, the only coastal village located in two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Lake District National Park and Frontiers of the Roman Empire Hadrians Wall.

The line is seven miles long with a journey time of 40 minutes each way offering spectacular views over the estuaries and countryside with England’s highest mountains in the distance. There are great walks between and from the seven intermediate request stops. Their cosy covered, half open and open top carriages provide the best of comfort and views as you travel up the line. The main season runs from March until October however they do operate trains during November and December for Christmas through to New Year.

En route keep your eyes peeled for Greylag Geese, Curlew, Shelduck, Red Squirrels and Buzzards. On arrival at Dalegarth there is something for everyone, with the café serving homemade treats, a gift shop with plenty of pocket money gifts as well as great trails and walks to explore in this beautiful corner of the Lake District National Park. You can go and walk one of Wainwright’s routes and end up at Boot - where you can stop and enjoy a pint at The Boot Inn or The Woolpack. Also nearby is The Eskdale Mill which is a must see when you are in Boot village, just a five minute walk from Dalegarth Station.

 The journey from Ravenglass to Eskdale itself was one of Alfred Wainwright's favourites and immortalised in his Walks from Ratty and ‘Britain’s Favourite View’, Wastwater is just around the corner. An absolutely charming day out.

Booths, Keswick

Booths - the best supermarket about (in our opinion). Not only do they support the local economy by sourcing locally produced food and drink, but they also employ the loveliest people to work for them, some of whom also happen to have Special Needs. Booths staff are the best conversationalists at the checkout and so very contentious, and they are the reason we continue to return. There’s none of this chucking the shopping down the conveyor belt slide so fast that it might fly into next week. This is helpful because Heather is a very slow food packer at the Supermarket. She likes to do this part of the shop in a very particular way (so we let her).

We love the huge selection of food here, and the care and attention taken by each store to stock and support their local brands. Expect local ales, chutneys, cheeses, pies, small batch spirits, freshly baked bread and an assortment of other lovely and delicious things that you don’t find on Middle Aisle at Lidl. We do love these discount supermarkets (especially for the delicious Italian chocolates filled with praline that they always seem to have on offer) but sometimes you just fancy something a little different.

We like the Kin Toffee Vodka that is sold here - in fact we like it so much we give each of our Wedding Guests a shot of it before they head off to the Church for the Ceremony! There is a sweet cafe attached to the Supermarket too - expect a lot of rustling, wet coats as people take solace in the warmth after a day on the fells, and the pensioners of Keswick drinking tea and eating cake. (Stop and listen to the local gossip).

Lowther Castle

One of the oldest arms-bearing families in the country, the Lowthers trace their origins back to Dolfin, descendant of a Viking settler, who arrived at the site of Lowther Castle in 1150. It was Dolfin who is said to have named the river Lowth-a (foaming water) – hence the family name.

Knights and Earls, members of Parliament, industrialists, agriculturalists, businessmen, visionary designers of houses and gardens, soldiers, adventurers, collectors and sportsmen – the Lowther dynasty boasts many achievers among its ranks. They have been getters and spenders throughout the generations and to read their history is to chart the triumphs and trials of the kingdom at large.

Recent intervention by public funding bodies, the creation of the Lowther Castle & Gardens Trust and extensive investment and hard work on the part of the owners have transformed the place into a thriving visitor location. The castle is now a garden and the gardens are being rediscovered and renewed. In the stable gallery, an exhibition tells The Story of Lowther – showing exactly how this fascinating place has held up a mirror to its times. For families, an adventure playground offers fun and excitement galore.

J&J Graham, Penrith

J&J Graham is an Artisan Baker & Deli who have been providing Fine Food & Hampers since 1793 when it was established by the Graham brothers, James & John in the English Lake District.

Graham's traditional shop is situated in Penrith's Market Square, the current building dates back to 1880 and it is here J&J Graham's hampers are prepared to order. Graham's has an artisan bakery within where the chef, Alan Potter and his team bake bread, scones, pies, soup, quiches & honey glazed ham every day. We highly recommend calling in for a delicious basket of goodies. There are some of the finest speciality food & drink producers in the Eden Valley & Cumbria who contribute to their gift hampers. Expect to find delightful and intriguing produce such as Kendal Mint Cake Liqueur, Dalemain Marmelade, Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding (not to be missed), Lakeland Moon Gin, Jams & Chutneys from Wild and Fruitful, Bedrock Gin, Appleby Creamery Cheeses, Claire’s Handmade Jams & Chutneys, as well as Mr Vikki’s Chilli Sauces (which are delicious ~ Mr Vikki’s also sell their produce on their stall at Keswick Market on Saturdays from 8am-4.30pm.)

Derwentwater Launch

Enjoy a lake cruise on one of the Keswick Launches and experience the beauty of Derwentwater with breathtaking views of the surrounding fells. Enjoy special views of Skiddaw, England’s fourth highest mountain, Catbells, and the ‘Jaws of Borrowdale’.

A cruise on Derwentwater is a very special way of discovering the Northern Lake District. Take the 50 minute round boat trip or disembark at one of the eight jetties en-route and take a lakeland walk via well-marked paths to famous landmarks such as Ashness Bridge, Lodore Falls, Grange in Borrowdale, Brandelhow and Lingholm, holiday home of Beatrix Potter.

Derwentwater is 3 miles long, 1.5 miles wide and 72 feet at its deepest point. Cruises sail past its four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island.

The four launches have open and covered decks and operate on a regular timetable throughout the year. Rowing boats and motor cruisers are also available for hire so you can explore the lake at your own pace - this is a lot of fun, but does require arm strength and stamina!

Wild Yak Fishing

Join Lachland Cameron for a spot of Fishing! Lachlan is a fully qualified paddlesport leader and runs Wild Yak. You can join him for a bespoke guided fishing trip!

With Wild Yak Fishing you get the ability to plan your own bespoke trip whether it be a half 4hr day trip, a full 8hr day trip, a twilight session or weekend escape, choosing which species you'd like to catch and what location to fish, it's all up to you! All fishing gear is supplied including kayaks and safety equipment, all you need to bring along is your lunch, waterproofs and some suitable footwear for the day.
The Lake Districts has some of most beautiful waters England has to offer and with Wild Yak Fishing you get access to a wide range of them. Lachlan can take you on a guided trip on our closest lakes - Crummock Water, Buttermere or Loweswater, but of course if you wanted to adventure farther afield than our local lakes, then Lachlan can help! The advantage from fishing in kayaks is that you get to fish some of the most remote waters which are restricted to paddle craft only! All of Wild Yak’s fishing is catch and release only.

Explore The Lakes, Paddle Boarding

If you're looking for Adventure close to Scale Hill then look no further! Explore The Lakes is a family run business that specialise in offering mobile paddle board hire here in the Western Lake District.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (or SUP for short) is a fantastic fun water activity that has become the paddle sport of choice for most people in recent years. Paddle boarding is an exciting & fun sport that can be enjoyed by anyone, you don’t need to be super fit or super skilled to take part, it is surprisingly easy to get the hang of! 

The team at Explore The Lakes offer a variety of hire packages, including day hire, evening hire, weekend, 4+ days and longer term hire options. They have single boards, and also a family board if you have 2 adults and 2 smaller children, for example.

They can even deliver their top of the range inflatable paddle boards and all of the safety equipment directly to Scale Hill, or to the waters edge, hassle free! We have enjoyed a few evenings paddle boarding on Crummock Water with their fantastic RED Paddle Boards, and we highly recommend the experience (especially if the water is flat and calm on Crummock Water and the sun is shining!)

Mobile Adventure, Ghyll Scrambling

For the last 17 years Mobile Adventure have provided a whole range of outdoor activities to suit all ages and abilities, from single adventurers to groups of over 100 on a multi-activity holiday. They are a small independent company based in the vibrant town of Keswick, focused on providing groups and individuals with a great outdoor activity experience at an affordable price; from taking on the UKs original Via Ferrata at Honister, rock climbing in the Borrowdale Valley, Canoeing, Kayaking or Ghyll Scrambling near Keswick, they can show you the best of the Lake District’s outdoor adventures.

Some adventures close to Scale Hill for you to consider are the Via Ferrata at Honister. Not dissimilar to Go Ape, the multi-award winning Honister Via Ferrata is a series of challenging exposed scrambles linked by metal ladders, wire bridges and a huge cargo net leading to one of the finest viewpoints in the Lake District, the top of Fleetwith Pike. Born out of the First World War, where early Via Ferrata, meaning ‘Iron Way’ were used to move troops across the Dolomites, they have evolved from the early rope and iron pegs into a safe and fantastic way of tackling a mountain peak.

If you prefer to try some Ghyll Scrambling at Honister, then you can scramble up then this half-day activity involves scrambling up a Lake District ghyll under the watchful eye of your highly experienced guide. The ascent will include mini rock climbs (some not all that mini!) jumps into plunge pools and various other optional challenges as you ascend the route. Whilst your ghyll scrambling, your instructor will be with you every step along the way ensuring your safety and maximising your enjoyment of a truly unique Lake District experience! Honister Ghyll is one of the best activity venues full stop, and is especially suited to groups with younger members. Gorge walking is a perfect wet weather adventure, and lets face it - it does rain ALOT in the Lake District!

Muncaster Castle & Gardens

The Castle, nestled in Cumbria, believed to be standing on Roman remains, is a key part of the region’s history. Whilst the Pennington family have recorded evidence of this historic house as being their home since 1208 when lands were granted to Alan de Penitone, some records go back further suggesting that the family have been here since at least 1026.

A castle was built in the later 13th century and enlarged in the 14th when a pele tower was erected on Roman foundations (which would date back to 79AD), part of its fabric being incorporated in the south-west tower. A coin from the time of Emperor Theodosius (AD380) has been found, and there is also a Victor ring.

Muncaster Castle is a fine example of one of the Lake District and Cumbria’s favourite historic houses – there is a Hawk and Owl Centre there too, which is fantastic as well as a Cafe and of course, the obligatory gift shop!

Ullswater Steamers

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ is an award winning environmentally accredited Lake District attraction celebrating over 150 years of operating cruises on England’s most beautiful lake. Operating one of the largest heritage vessel fleets in the world, offering visitors an experience 363 days a year. Cruises connect to some of the most famous and iconic walking routes in the National Park, with views of Wordsworth's Daffodils on the west shore in Spring. Excellent facilities onboard include a beautiful open deck and covered upper deck seating areas so you can take in the views.

Ullswater runs a serpentine course for eight miles through expansive vistas of Lakeland’s highest mountains.  Helvellyn at 3,117ft (950m) crowns Ullswater, at the South-Western end of the valley, standing on a mighty plateau approximately 9 miles (14.5km) in length and 4.5 miles (7km) wide. The ‘Steamers’ operate an all year service with varying timetable connections between Glenridding, Howtown, Pooley Bridge Piers and between Glenridding and National Trust Aira Force Pier. Cruise times vary from 20 – 120 minutes.

The Moon & Sixpence Coffee House, Cockermouth

Very lovely coffee shop on Main Street in Cockermouth. It is cosy and small with single batch coffee being served in quirky cups and saucers. Independently owned with lovely friendly staff, they serve cakes and pastries. It is usually quite busy and can sometimes be difficult to find a spot, but it is worth it! There are usually seats outside, so you can perch there if you have a dog with you.

Carlisle Castle

Standing proud in the city it has dominated for nine centuries, Carlisle Castle remained a working fortress until well within living memory and has been home to the King's Own Royal Border Regiment. It has withstood many sieges, held captive a royal prisoner (Queen Mary - see her Tower), Bonnie Prince Charlie as well as notorious Border Reivers such as as Kinmont Willie Armstrong who was dramatically rescued from the castle. With excellent exhibitions showing Prisoner Carvings, as well as Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, there is plenty to do here! Explore the medieval castle rooms, discover the castles Turbulent History and walk some of the castle walls. We're also home to Cumbria's Museum of Military Life. Why not also check out Tullie House Musuem & Art Gallery whilst you are here? The wonderful cafe is run by John Watt & Son.

Zefirellis, Ambleside

Award Winning Restaurant and Independent Cinema, Zeffirellis been a firm favourite for loyal friends and customers for over 40 years, winning many awards and accolades for their fine vegetarian cuisine, film premieres, music events and service. Enjoy a cocktail in their Jazz bar whilst live music plays, sip on a cappuccino in their daytime cafe, or enjoy a film in the cinema followed by a romantic meal in their vivacious restaurant. It has been a year or so since we last went, but we had a brilliant evening, and the restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere (not to mention an authentic pizzeria). Just don’t eat too much popcorn during the film!

Tony Harrison & Son, Cockermouth

This award winning Butchers in Cockermouth is run by Tony Harrison and his highly skilled team are purveyors of fine food, providing tasty, native breed, free range, pasture fed, dry aged meat carefully selected from small farmers who care.

They buy whole animal carcasses and butcher ‘nose to tail’ in the traditional manner, then cut for the modern palate. Meat is seasonal, so when shopping week to week do ask what’s new and what’s coming soon. They only provide the best of what is available and source directly from farmers - call in to their shop in Cockermouth and see the wonderful team here who have a wide selection of cuts and delicious marinades with which to delight your tastebuds. If you visit, tell Dan that Heather at Scale Hill sent you!

Derwent Pencil Museum, Keswick

Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica graphite mine which would have served as the source of the pencil industry over three centuries ago. A journey of graphite and pencil discovery from its humble beginnings as a cottage industry to modern day production.

Discover secret WW2 pencils with hidden maps; one of the largest colour pencils in the world measuring almost 8 metres; The Queen's diamond Jubilee pencil; miniature pencil sculptures; and much much more! They also have a Derwent fine art retail shop, run art workshops and events, and there is an Artisan Cafe with free wi-fi. It is hard to not be inspired to draw and create once you’ve had a visit here!

Dalemain

Dalemain is a Mansion House with Gardens which rebranded itself in 2005 as the location of the International Marmalade Festival. The Worlds Original Marmalade Awards are held here annually, sponsored by Fortnum & Mason.

The name Dalemain means ‘manor in the valley’, and there has been a settlement in its position since the time of the Saxons.The first recorded mention of a building on this site, is of a fortified pele tower in the reign of Henry II; one of a line of towers built to protect the country against the marauding and barbaric ‘border reiver’ Scots to the North.

In the 14th century a manor hall was added with a second tower, and during the 16th century two wings housing kitchen and living quarters were built, one on each side of the main building. These various building works provide a glorious confusion of winding passages, quaint stairways and unexpected rooms in the house that stands today; the Fretwork Room particularly has a magnificent sixteenth-century plaster ceiling and beautiful oak paneling.

In 1679, Sir Edward Hasell bought Dalemain thanks to a legacy from his employer Lady Anne Clifford. Sir Edward acted as ‘Chiefe Officer’ to Lady Anne Clifford until her death in 1676. As thanks, he was given various gifts from Lady Anne, including her portrait by Bracken and her Diary of 1676 both of which are on show. Sir Edward Hasell bought Dalemain from the Layton family in 1679 and it has remained in his family - for eleven generations! They have lived at Dalemain during the Glorious Revolution, the formation of the Kingdom of Great Britain, the Napoleonic Wars, the Industrial Revolution and both World Wars.

Although Sir Edward made minor changes to the building it was not until later when his son, Edward, built an impressive Georgian front in 1744. This enclosed a central courtyard between the new and the old parts of the house and the house became much grander with public rooms including the breath-taking Chinese Room with its original eighteenth-century, hand-painted wallpaper, riotously alive with birds, insects and flowers. The Georgian facade is the first view of Dalemain for most visitors, an impressive sight from the road, before the courtyard and medieval structures comes into view.

There have been no major alterations since 1744 and the interior has thus gradually developed slowly. In 1920 much of the house was modernised by Gertrude Hasell, wife of Major Hasell, who introduced electricity, central heating and redecorated many of the rooms.

The house was opened to the public in 1977 but remains very much lived in by the Hasell-McCosh family where rooms are used throughout the year. There are interesting collections of fine furniture, family portraits, ceramics, dolls’ houses, and old toys.

Look out for the priest’s hiding hole, which went undiscovered until the 19th century. It was created and used when the house belonged to the Layton family, who were staunch Catholics. Another thing to keep your eyes peeled for is The Chinese Room which was decorated with sheets of hand-painted wallpaper, brought in Tea Clippers from China in 1757.

There is a delightful Tea-Room in the Medieval Hall which serves scones, made to a secret recipe, served with their award-winning marmalade, of course.

The Toffee Shop, Penrith

"Would you believe that there is a fudge so good that strong men weep if deprived of it and otherwise scrupulous people creep through darkened room at dead of night to steal another morsel!?" ~ Harpers & Queen

Junction 40 on the M6 is an unusual place to find a shrine but this is where thousands of pilgrims leave the motorway to travel the few miles to Penrith. Fudge addicts flock here from all over the world because, until recently, this was the only place to buy it. It's on the left hand side at the bottom of the hill as you come into Penrith. If you find yourself lost it really doesn't matter - Penrith is not large and absolutely everyone knows where the Toffee Shop is.

The Toffee Shop was originally opened by the Furnass family just after the First World War and has worked through three families, eventually being owned by Neil and Pat Boustead.

Once inside the shop, you can't miss the rich sweet aroma of melting butter and boiling sugar from the toffee shop kitchen. The difficulty will be leaving it. The same recipe has been used for over 90 years and has never been changed, why should it be when it's so good?

Fudge is made from butter, sugar and milk to a simple recipe and in small batches, so that it cooks evenly and thoroughly. There are always plenty of people to fuss over the 8 brass pans - stirring it when it needs stirring, and checking that it never boils over or catches in the pan. Once cooked, the fudge is poured into cooling trays and then cut by hand into slabs.We should not forget the toffee -made with sugar, butter, syrup or black treacle - it also packs a powerful punch. It is also made by hand and once cooled in trays is broken up with a hammer and the irregularly shaped pieces individually wrapped.There are hundreds of fudge shops in Britain so what makes this one so different?

It's difficult to describe the sensation of eating the fudge - it's a rich grainy textured fudge like tablet (Scottish fudge) but smoother and not as sweet, so you can eat masses without feeling sick. Lord Lichfield has been quoted as calling it " the best fudge in the world" and endorses this by having regular orders sent.

This place should really be called ‘The Fudge Shop’ because that is the product that has really sealed their reputation, but we must admit, the Treacle and Butter Toffee are also worth the pilgrimmage. Go, and buy enough to get you through a car journey home. You’ll thank us.

The Rum Story, Whitehaven

Until June 1998 Jefferson's Wine Merchants was the oldest family owned wines and spirits merchants in the country. The family had traded from the same premises on Lowther Street for over two centuries. 

The business was founded by Robert Jefferson who came from Aikton, near Wigton. He is described as a much respected and honest man during his years of trade with Virginia. The business interests of the Jefferson's was not only confided to the wine and spirits business. They were also interested in shipbuilding and railway development. The Jefferson's were partners in the Lumley Kennedy and Co. Shipbuilding Company.

 The cargo that was carried by the Jefferson's ships was rum, sugar and molasses from the West Indies and Wine from Portugal and Spain. A large proportion of the sugar imported to Whitehaven was from the Yeaman estate in Antigua, which was owned by the Jefferson's. It was from that estate that they imported their famous rum. Another speciality was their East Indian Sherry. All of the imports by the Jefferson family was carried by their own vessels. In total the Jefferson's used 12 sailing ships.

 With the closure of the shop in 1998, plans were put in place to convert the premises into a tourist attraction which explores the links that Whitehaven has had with the Rum trade. On 22nd May 2000, the Rum Story opened its doors. This is a great little museum, set in the original 1785 shop, courtyards, cellars and bonded warehouses of the Jefferson family. The Rum Story has been authentically designed to provide all-weather family entertainment. There is the obligatory gift-shop, and cafe, where you can buy home-made Rum Butter, as well as making up personalised Hampers. Wonderful and fascinating, we highly recommend to explore the wonderful rich history of Whitehaven whilst you are here.

Maryport Maritime Museum

The museum’s eclectic collection consists of items and information relating to the rich maritime, industrial and social history of the town.  Many exhibits were donated by local people, including the museum’s founder, local dignitary Miss Annie Robinson.

The site on which the museum stands was the first plot to be leased by Humphrey Senhouse in in the ‘new’ town of Maryport in 1759.  At first a private house, it is listed in the Directory of Maryport 1856 as ‘Queens Head Public House’, owned by Jane Bryce.  It continued as the Queens Head well into the latter half of the 20th century until it became the Maritime Museum in 1975. Miss Robinson was the driving force behind its inception, donating many items from her personal collection and encouraging other townspeople to do the same.  

After a period of closure, the museum was re-opened in 2011 by a group of volunteers who formed Maryport Maritime Heritage Limited.  Although Allerdale Borough Council still owns the building and provides some funding, the museum is run entirely on a volunteer basis by local people who are keen to promote Maryport’s fascinating history to tourists, locals and schools.  Visitors come from all over the world to view the museum and use its invaluable reference library to trace their local ancestry.

Highlights are the White Star Line Room which houses the epic story of the White Star Line and its founder Thomas Henry Ismay, who was born in Maryport in 1837. Included, of course, is the story of The Titanic, and her sister Ships Olympic and Britannic.

By arrangement, one of historians will take conducted group tours around Maryport Harbour, pointing out features and sites of historical interest. 

Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery, Carlisle

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery is Carlisle's finest visitor attraction, and houses considerable collections of fine and decorative art, human history and natural sciences.  It also boasts a wide range of  exhibitions and events, brought together in one impressive museum and art gallery.

A fusion of old and new awaits you, from the beautiful Old Tullie House, a classical Grade One Listed Jacobean building to the Border Galleries, full of exciting exhibits and interactive displays.

There is something for everyone at Tullie House. Children and adults of all ages will find fun, hands-on exhibits and even games: fire a Roman weapon, climb our life-sized section of Hadrian’s Wall or visit the badgers’ sett!

A changing programme of temporary exhibitions compliments our permanent displays; contemporary arts are featured in the purpose-built Art Gallery, and exhibitions inspired by our own collections or the local community appear in the Special Exhibitions Gallery upstairs.  

Set in attractive and well-planted gardens, Old Tullie House (1689) still retains its beautiful Jacobean facade. Inside there is an impressive Jacobean staircase and fireplace. The wood-panelled first floor room shows Pre-Raphaelite art and Arts & Crafts items.

The award-winning family-friendly restaurant serves a variety of snacks and meals, while the Tullie House gift shop is the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, featuring locally crafted goods.

The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven

Discover the past, present and future at the Beacon Museum, Whitehaven. Situated between the Georgian town’s iconic mines and harbour, this museum and art gallery tells the story of historic Copeland, which boasts two world heritage sites set amongst the Lake District’s dramatic mountain and coastal landscapes.

From Viking silver to Victorian trading ships, a vibrant collection of historic objects and artwork is accompanied by a blend of local and touring exhibitions throughout the year.

Science lovers can delve into the living heritage of the west Cumbrian nuclear industry within the interactive Sellafield Story exhibition, and revellers can take in the best view in Whitehaven from the panoramic viewing gallery. The Wellington Bistro overlooks the harbour, and you can look out at the boats bobbing in the water, whilst you sup on a coffee.

Senhouse Roman Museum, Maryport

Dramatically sited on cliffs overlooking the Solway Firth, this award winning museum is next to a Roman fort probably founded in the first century AD and rebuilt during the reign of the emperor Hadrian.

Most of the objects in the Museum derive from the fort at Maryport and the Roman civil settlement attached to it. The museum displays the largest group of Roman military altar stones and inscriptions from any site in Britain and unique examples of Romano-British religious sculpture.

The collection, which was begun by the Senhouse family in the 1570s, is the oldest in the country, and is of international importance.

In the Museum grounds, you can climb the observation tower for a clear view of the full extent of the site, which recent geophysical survey has revealed to have been one of the largest and best preserved in the north.