Discover culture in the South Lakes

Discover the rich artistic and cultural scene of the South Lakes: a place where traditional and contemporary combine to create a unique experience filled with wonder and surprise.

Explore fascinating attractions and museums telling the story of this beautiful region. In Ambleside, the Armitt Museum showcases this Lakeland town and its people, including artist Kurt Schwitters, and features the drawings of a young Beatrix Potter.

In Kendal, visit the Quaker Tapestry Museum where 350 years of social history and Quaker stories are brought to life in vibrantly embroidered tapestry panels.

On the shores of Windermere, the award-winning Windermere Jetty Museum is dedicated to the heritage of boat building, with a working conservation shed and spectacular views framed by modern architecture.

Visit one of the region’s historic houses, and discover the lives of some famous South Lakeland residents. Brantwood in Coniston was formerly home to Victorian art critic John Ruskin. Wander its impressive rooms and gardens; there are also art exhibitions and outdoor theatre. In Bowness, Blackwell – the Arts and Crafts house was designed in the arts and crafts style by renowned architect MacKay Hugh Baillie Scott.

Walk in the footsteps of William Wordsworth: the poet and his sister Dorothy spent much of their lives here, finding inspiration in the natural surroundings. Begin with a visit to Wordsworth Grasmere, home to Dove Cottage as well as a modern museum telling of William’s life and Dorothy’s fascinating Grasmere Journal.

From Dove Cottage, Wordsworth moved to the National Trust’s Allan Bank which is open to visitors. He chose Rydal Mount as his final home, staying here until his death in 1850. You can even visit Hawkshead Grammar