Things to do in Hawkshead

Activities, attractions and tours

St. Michael and All Angels Church in the lovely Lakes village of Hawkshead.
St. Michael and All Angels Church in the lovely Lakes village of Hawkshead.
Hawkshead lies between Lake Windermere and Lake Coniston. It is the quintessential Lake District village with traditional pubs and whitewashed buildings and has connections to Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Walk from here around Esthwaite Water, to Tarn Hows or through beautiful woodland.
Hawkshead still looks pretty on a rainy day!
Follow the leader - it's feeding time in the Lake District! #wildlife #nature
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What to do in Hawkshead

Popular places to visit

grasmere views, lake district, Shutterstock ID 1200996316, Purchase Order: SP-1897, Order Number: SP-1897 Go Guides, Client/Licensee: Hotels.com, Other: Supattra Laoreiam

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water

You can learn about the history of Grasmere with a stop at Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Grasmere Lake & Rydal Water
Ambleside which includes boating and a lake or waterhole

Ambleside Pier

Explore the waterfront in Waterhead with a trip to Ambleside Pier. Visit the spas and lively bars in this walkable area.

Ambleside Pier
Rydal Mount which includes interior views and a house

Rydal Mount

Wander through the picturesque grounds of Wordsworth’s family home and imagine how the views of lakes inspired him to write.

Rydal Mount
Dove Cottage showing a house, heritage elements and a park

Dove Cottage

Visit the 17th-century house where William Wordsworth lived for almost a decade and wrote some of his most celebrated works.

Dove Cottage
Across the lake to Heron Pike.

Rydal Water

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rydal Water during your travels in Lakes.

Rydal Water

Hill Top Farm

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Hill Top Farm during your travels in Near Sawrey. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Hill Top Farm

Grizedale Forest

Explore the great outdoors at Grizedale Forest, a lovely green space in Hawkshead. Amble around this relaxing area's lakeside and enjoy its lively bars.

Grizedale Forest

Tarn Hows

Explore the great outdoors at Tarn Hows, a lovely green space in Ambleside. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Tarn Hows

Wray Castle

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Wray Castle during your trip to Claife. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Wray Castle

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Hawkshead worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are loads of great things to do in Hawkshead. Remember to discover the area's mix of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Hawkshead?
Start your adventures with a visit to Ambleside Climbing Wall and Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore. Then, explore different areas of Hawkshead for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hawkshead?
Don't go home without exploring Beatrix Potter Gallery, ranked the top tourist attraction in Hawkshead.
Is three days enough to stay in Hawkshead?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Beatrix Potter Gallery, Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore and Rothay Park with a three-day escape to Hawkshead. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stick around longer and check out Windermere.
Is Hawkshead a walkable city?
With awesome attractions like Beatrix Potter Gallery close by, Hawkshead is every bit a place to experience on foot. Want to discover some exciting neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? High Wray is around 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Hawkshead with kids?
Deciding what to do in Hawkshead with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly sights to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Hawkshead for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in Hawkshead for adults including Grasmere Garden Village and Wordsworth Museum.
Are there free things to do in Hawkshead?
In Hawkshead, Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Hawkshead.