Ah, the Lake District. The beautiful region of Northwest England is home to mountains, forests, and of course- lakes. In the words of Taylor Swift, it’s also “where all the poets went to die”. One of these poets was William Wordsworth. This famous poet helped to launch English romanticism and is known for poems such as “The Prelude” and “Daffodils”. Wordsworth’s legacy has spanned so long that many of the places he lived in or visited have become historical landmarks. So, if you fancy a poetry-filled road trip, this article is for you. Here are 6 places any Wordsworth fanatic should consider visiting.
1. Wordsworth Grasmere
Located in the Lake District, Wordsworth Grasmere is the site of Dove Cottage, the Grasmere Wordsworth museum, and the gardens where William Wordsworth would change poetry forever. Events include a gallery tour, poetry writing, and nature sketching. Dove Cottage has been restored to its Wordsworth days. Through summer 2022, an exhibition featuring the work of Willam’s sister Dorothy is running at the site as well. Monthly events bring speakers, arts and crafts, and open mics to the cottage. The site’s cozy cafe is open to the public.
2. Rydal Mount
In under a ten-minute drive from Wordsworth Grasmere, you can find yourself at Rydal Mount, one of Wordsworth’s family homes. The site includes the home, with Wordsworth possessions and portraits, a garden, and a tearoom. Rydal Mount sometimes has special events such as sketchbook classes, craft fairs, and cyanotype workshops. The site even hosts weddings! The picturesque location would be a great addition to any Lake District visit.
3. Tintern Abbey
In 1798 William Wordsworth wrote about his time near Tintern Abbey. Now, you can visit Tintern Abbey yourself! The majestic ruins stand on the bank of the River Wye in Wales. You can visit whenever you would like, but certain dates may have special tours and activities available. The site is absolutely beautiful and has an attached gift shop.
4. Hawkshead Grammar School
So where did William Wordsworth learn about words? In grammar school of course! Hawkshead Grammar School to be exact. You can visit the Hawkshead Grammar School Museum in Cumbria, England. The museum is home to a unique collection of artifacts from the Wordsworth days. Rumor has it that Wordsworth’s name is still carved into one of the wooden desks. The school is located in Hawkshead, Ambleside- around only a 20-minute drive from Wordsworth Grasmere and Rydal Mount!
5. St Oswald’s Church
William Wordsworth attended St. Oswald’s church at some period in his life. The church has beautiful architecture and stained glass in its interior. Just outside of the church is a small cemetery where Wordsworth and some of his family are buried.
6. Wordsworth House and Garden
The Wordsworth House and Garden is yet another place where the poet spread his legacy. As his childhood home, this site allows visitors to see what life was like for the Wordsworths in the late 1700s. During the 2022 season, the site will be hosting a special exhibit called ‘Scree’ which celebrates Wordsworth’s legacy and role in founding the national trust. The beautiful garden is filled with fruits and flowers and is accompanied by the lovely house and its welcoming staff.
Can’t make it to England? Thankfully, us here at Bookstr have plenty of Wordsworth content that is sure to keep you occupied. Click here for more!