Best Arts and Culture Places in Kirkstone Pass

"Lake Road, Keswick (10 min drive) — Art Gallery and cafe in Keswick, serving great lunches. One of The Independent’s top 50 coffee shops in the UK. Same family ownership as Derwentwater House."

"In collaboration with Cumbria Tourism, we had been lucky enough to be provided with tickets for some activities at Brockhole. Located a few miles from Bowness and on the way to Ambleside, Brockhole is an absolute gem of a day out for families. There is a real mix of activities on offer for all ages and although you have to pay for parking, there are lots of activities that are free to take part in (although you will be tempted by the abundance of activities on offer that you do need to pay for so be prepared!)."

"Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake, with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving."

"Take in the scenic views and gardens down to the shores of Windermere. Browse round the shop and treat yourself to something tasty in the café. The extensive gardens are a delight whatever time you choose to visit."

"Farfield is a restored Victorian woollen mill in a quiet corner of Cumbria and in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Filled with artist studios, exhibitions, heritage displays, working looms, art and craft for sale by local artists, plus tea and cake at…"

"While I haven’t actually ever been to the Rheged Centre, I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things from my family about it. Its name reminding me somewhat of a Targaryen character from Game of Thrones, the Rheged Centre is home to a 6-storey high cinema screen, numerous shops, cafes and a huge outdoor activity centre for both children and adults to enjoy. It’s open all year round and is ideal for almost all weather conditions due to its indoor and outdoor facilities."

"If you’re looking to pick up some local bits and pieces to decorate your home with when you get back, pop into local artist Rebecca Cropper’s studio in Bowness, where she sells framed and mounted pieces. Incorporating lots of the local landscape into her works, the collection also includes mugs, cushions, lampshades and other homeware too. Alongside these great local stores, Bowness is also home to a selection of high-street names such as Pandora, Fat Face, Joules, Edinburgh Woolen Mill and more, so why not spend a day indulging in a bit of retail therapy during your stay in Bowness?"

"On the eastern shore of Coniston Water, Brantwood was the cherished home of John Ruskin (1819–1900), the noted Victorian artist, writer,…"

"For vegetarian dining in Ambleside, look no further than Zeffirelis and Fellinis (even enthusiastic meat eaters will find something to enjoy here!). Offering a contemporary, award winning dining experience, these two friendly restaurants are local institutions. Zeffirelis focuses on Italian cuisine, with pasta and home baked pizzas on the menu; while Fellinis offers more of a fine dining experience, with creative vegetarian dishes inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean."

"When we arrived in Ambleside, Zeffirellis was our first port of call. This Italian-inspired vegetarian restaurant is also owned by the same people as Fellinis & Ambleside Manor and is a little more casual than its sister restaurant. Their speciality is pizza and pasta dishes, with lots of vegan options available."

"Ullswater Road, Penrith CA11 7EH EnglandCafe, BritishBreakfast, Lunch, BrunchTakeout, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Free Off-Street Parking, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Table Service, Free Wifi[email protected]+44 1768 868680https://www.cranstons.net/cafe-oswalds.html"

"With a well stocked bar and centrally located in Keswick, The Bank Tavern offers plenty of choice in both its food and its drinks. The pub is full of character and the perfect place to go if you’re looking for that traditional pub feel."

"Rope swings on the grounds, picnics in atmospheric old rooms, free tea and coffee, and huge blackboards you can write on: Allan Bank…"

"Rope swings on the grounds, picnics in atmospheric old rooms, free tea and coffee, and huge blackboards you can write on: Allan Bank…"