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• One Way Ticket To Windermere Por Favor
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• Holiday Accommodation Wanted In The Lake District

Ravenglass and Eskdale

The green landscapes and woodlands of the valley of Eskdale are divided by the River Esk, which penetrates deep into the Lakeland fells.

If you enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside, Eskdale offers visitors some of themost stunning scenery in the Lake District. Situated in the heart of the valley is the picturesque village of Boot, which his home to a working corn mill, three real-ale pubs and a micro-brewery.

At the coastal end lies Ravenglass, where the Esk, the Irt and the Mite rivers meet to form an estuary and natural harbour. Ravenglass is now known as the terminus for the Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway, but the area was once a major Roman port and fishing town.

If you are touring around the area for the first time, take a trip to Muncaster Castle, which was the ancient family seat of the Pennngton family. With colourful spring gardens, a renowned owl centre and plenty of ´ghosts´, the castle is well worth a visit. Nearby Waberthwaite is famous for Richard Woodall´s hams, bacons and Cumberland Sausage, which is regularly despatched to the Queen. The surrounding district is home to Bronze Age Settlements, Roman forts, Anglian crosses, Viking artefacts and other hidden gems that make Ravenglass and Eskdale so rich in history and culture.

Muncaster Castle Gardens

The Muncaster Castle Gardens were first designed in 1780, and are known throughout the world for their stunning displays of rhododendrons and azaleas in the spring. Exotic plants and specimen trees, including Tom Fool´s Tree, are dotted around the impressive gardens. Visitors can enjoy stunning views over Eskdale from the castle gardens.

The World Owl Centre

Over 100 species of own can be found at the Muncaster Owl Conservation Centre. This is also the headquarters of the World Owl Trust, and the collection of birds is one of the biggest in the world. Species range from the tiny Pygmy Owl to the enormous Eagle Owls. Visitors can also learn about the vital conservation work in the area, while herons can be seen swooping down to eat at the centre every afternoon (3.30pm winter and 4.30pm summer).

Visit Drigg Dunes Nature Reserve

The Drigg Dunes Nature Reserve is situated just west of Ravenglass, and is an area of shingle and salt marsh which provides the perfect environment for flowers and insects, plus the famous Natterjack Toad, which is known to breed in the dune slacks. Cars can be parked at Drigg beach and the reserve can be accessed on foot.

The Japanese Garden

Situated at Eskdale Green, the Japanese Garden is within Giggle Alley Wood. One part of the Gatehouse Estate, the garden was designed on the principle of borrowing the landscape, and using natural features and views to create a beautiful setting. Enhanced by winding pathways, stone steps, rockeries and pools of water, the garden was finished in 1914. After a change of ownership in 1949, the garden rapidly became overgrown and it is now being restored to its former glory.  Admission is free and parking is available at Eskdale Green.

Muncaster Castle

Visitors who want to learn more about the history and culture of the area should visit Muncaster Castle, which sits proudly on a natural platform with superb views over Eskdale. The castle developed around a 13th Century tower house which lies on Roman foundations. Muncaster Castle has been occupied continuously since 1208 by the Pennington family, and several rooms are open to the public. The gardens are open daily all year except January, and there is also a café and gift shop onsite.

Ravenglass Roman Bath House

The Ravenglass Roman Bath House was originally known as Walls Castle, and hundreds of Roman soldiers visited to wash and freshen up. This is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the north of England, and excavations have uncovered extra rooms. The earthworks of the adjacent fort can be seen in the field opposite.

 Hardknott Roman Fort

This remote outpost of the Roman Empire once guarded the military road between Ravenglass and Ambleside, and it is magnificently positioned on a rocky outcrop overlooking Eskdale. The fort was completed in the 2nd Century during the reign of Hadrian and it was garrisoned by troops recruited from Dalmatia (now Croatia). The ruins are well preserved and comprise four gateways and corner towers. A nearby levelled area was used as a parade ground.

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

This narrow-gauge railway has become one of Cumbria´s best-loved attractions, and provides an unforgettable steam-driven trip through Eskdale which is fun for all the family. The line was built in 1875, originally to take iron ore from the mines in Eskdale to Ravenglass. Visitors can enjoy the small railway museum and stop off for refreshments at the newly built Dalegarth Station. A daily service runs between March and October, and weekends and school holiday after that.

 
Eskdale Mill

This is the oldest working corn mill in England, and dates back to 1578. The largely 18th Century building still retains its wooden machinery and grindstones, and information boards provide visitors with an insight into the working mill. A system of sluices provides water to two huge water wheels, and the mill is open most days between Easter and the end of September. Guided tours are available. There is a small admission charge and parking is available at Dalegarth Station.


There are plenty of places to stay around Ravenglass and Eskdale, but if you are planning to tour the Lake District, check out the boutique hotels around Windermere, the guest houses in Ambleside and the B & B accommodation near Ullswater. The Lake District is undoubtedly one of England´s most scenic regions, and you will find a wealth of things to see and do during your visit.

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