Must See Sights and Landmarks in Matterdale End Area

"An impressive sight with its turrets and battlements, this mock-Gothic castle was built in 1840 for James Dawson, a retired doctor from Liverpool, but it has been owned by the National Trust since 1929. Though the interior is largely empty, the lakeside grounds are glorious. It was once used as a holiday home by Beatrix Potter's family. The best way to arrive is by boat from Bowness; there's limited parking and preference is given to non-driving visitors on busy days."

"This proper fairytale castle only recently opened its doors to the public and is operated by the National Trust. The neo-gothic castle has numerous towers and turrets to explore and various exhibitions to check out along the way. For example, kids can dress up in period costumes, build their own castle and explore the new Peter Rabbit adventure rooms, as well as an excellent outdoor play area too."

"Families can explore the activity rooms inside the castle, where there’s plenty of space for creative play. With a natural playground in the grounds and a path to spacious grassy area on the lakeshore, its a great for the whole family whatever the weather."

"This old slate mine has been reinvented as a centre for all kinds of activities: you could venture underground into the bowels of the old 'Edge' and 'Kimberley' mines, tackle a via ferrata, or climb inside the mine along a system of fixed cables, tracing the route followed by the slate miners. A tour into the 'Cathedral' mine runs on Friday by request, but you'll need eight people and it costs £25 per person."

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

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

"Sitting above Stock Beck next to Rydal Road, Bridge House may be the whole region’s most photographed landmark. Like all of Ambleside this adorable, narrow dwelling is constructed from local slate and has been owned by the National Trust for nearly a century after it was bought and donated by a group of local residents. The Bridge House dates from the 17th century, when it was used as an orchard storehouse, and has since been a mill counting house, chair-maker’s workshop, cobbler’s shop, tearoom and a family home packed with as many as eight people."

"The car park in Waterhead can be the starting point for a picturesque two-hour walk in the ancient woodland above Ambleside, cresting at Jenkin Crag, a great vantage point above Windermere. Nearly all of the path is in thick woodland, and there are steps to make the going lighter on wet days. One of the loveliest sections guides you along the Ambleside Champion Tree Trail, which has England’s tallest grand fir."

"On the shores of Lake Windermere, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spahas an award-winning restaurant, a beauty spa and scenic views. Windermere centre is a 20-minute walk away. With 2 AA Rosettes, the restaurant serves a modern menu featuring quality local produce and organic ingredients."

"Our hotel is perfectly situated with views of Lake Windermere, just a short stroll from the bustling village centre of Bowness-on-Windermere and the boats that travel the length of Windermere, making it easy to visit Ambleside, Brockhole, Wray Castle and Lakeside without a car. The Lakes Hotel & Spawas previously called the Burnside Hotel & Spa. The hotel has some of the best on-site facilities in the area, half of the rooms with hot tubs on private balconies, an on-site spa with poolside seating and a bar, stylish restaurant and cocktail bar, bike hire, wakesurfing and paddleboading."

"It was a busy night but we were waited on quickly and given plenty of information if we had any questions. The food was to a great standard. The meat was of great quality and the selection of food was amazing."

"With traditional beams and a cosy log fire, this is a perfect pub to head for after a rainy day exploring the things to do in the Lakes. Located just off Keswick’s Market Square, Pack Horse has a collection of draught ales for you to try whilst you tuck into one of their locally sourced dishes. Food: From £3.75, see the menuDog-Friendly: YesAddress: The Pack Horse Inn, Pack Horse Court, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5JBContact: 01768 771 148; www.packhorsekeswick.co.uk"

"If you’re still pumped from your day’s outdoor adventures and are looking to keep the energy going, then try a live music night at The Pack Horse Inn. Even without the music, the atmosphere is great in this traditional-style pub with its open fire, large selection of beers, wines and Prosecco, and great food."

"The Angel Helm Road, Bowness-on-Windermere LA23 3BU, EnglandReservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free WifiBar, British, Pub, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free OptionsDrinks, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, BrunchHK$165 - HK$385+44 15394 44080"

"Tall windows, a roaring open fire, and logs stacked up in the nooks, The Angel Inn is a modern restaurant with a sprinkling of character. The colourful seating and bright room makes this a cheerful place for a meal, with a menu that offers sweet and simple food with no fuss. Location: Helm Road, Bowness-on-Windermere,Contact: 015394 44080Dog-friendly"

"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."