William Wordsworth's Lake District
William Wordsworth & The Lake District
The Lake District has long been the inspiration for many great artists, writers and poets. William Wordsworth was born in Cockermouth, North of Keswick, at Wordsworth House (National Trust owned) then later made his home in Grasmere at Dove Cottage, and in his later years at Rydal Mount. All of these homes are open to the public and are well worth a visit:
Dove Cottage, Grasmere
Now owned by the Wordsworth Trust, this beautiful cottage has many of the original features, including the garden that he and his wife designed. It also houses many artefacts and original works by Wordsworth. Dove Cottage was home to William and his family for 8 ½ years (1799-1808). It was at Dove Cottage, Grasmere that he wrote many of his most famous poems.
Rydal Mount, Rydal
Linked by the famous coffin trail a 50 minute gentle walk between the two houses, with spectacular views of Rydal Water and the surrounding Lakeland Fells. Rydal Mount often refered to as his most 'beloved' home, retains much of its original charm and features. The Wordsworths were keen garden and the garden is testament to this as it remains relatively unchanged.
Wordsworth House, Cockermouth
William Wordsworth was born here on 7 April 1770, Now owned by the National Trust it houses some personal effects of the poet, with rooms furnished in a Regency Style. Opposite Wordsworth House is a memorial to William Wordsworth unveiled on 7 April 1970, the bicentenery of his birth.
William Wordsworth's grave can be visited in St Oswald's churchyard in Grasmere.
