10 Historic Sites in Lake District That You Shouldn't Miss

Dating from about 3000 BC, this is one of the first stone circles built in Britain, which is perched atop a high moor with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Rydal Mount, the last family home of William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850, now belongs to the direct descendants of the Poet and remains a lived-in family home. The dining room, part of the old Tudor cottage, with its original flagged floor and oak beams, contrasts pleasingly with the larger proportions of the drawing room and library, added in 1750. The house contains works of art, furniture, manuscripts and many of the Poet's books and personal possessions, reflecting his life here. Wordsworth was a keen landscape gardener and the four acre garden remains very much as he designed it, consisting of fell-side terraces, lawns, rock pools and a 9th century Norse mound. There are rare shrubs and, in season, the daffodils, bluebells and rhododendrons produce a spectacular display.

Dating from the Bronze Age, this is England's third largest stone circle that consists of a huge ring (the Daughters) of more than 60 stones and Long Meg, a 12-foot-high block of red sandstone.

The former home of artist and writer John Ruskin is perched high above Coniston Water. Brantwood offers a fascinating insight into the world of John Ruskin and the last 28 years of his life spent at Coniston. Filled with many fine paintings, beautiful furniture and Ruskin’s personal treasures, the house retains the character of its famous resident. Famous as a writer, artist and social reformer, many great thinkers have been influenced by Ruskin’s ideas. Brantwood remains a place of inspiration. Displays and activities in the house, gardens and estate reflect the wealth of cultural associations with Ruskin’s legacy – from the Pre Raphaelites and the Arts and Crafts Movement to the founding of the National Trust and the Welfare State. With its many contemporary exhibitions, concerts, courses and special events, together with its education work in the wider community, Brantwood continues in the Ruskin tradition today.

Levens Hall is a stunning family home with exceptional Elizabethan interiors and the finest furniture, clocks and paintings. Explore the fascinating artefacts linking the Hall to the Duke of Wellington, marvel at the world's largest and oldest topiary gardens before visiting the gift shop and the new Levens Kitchen for refreshments. Open House & Gardens 7 April - 3 October 2019 Sunday to Thursday (Closed Fridays and Saturdays). House 1200-1600, Gardens, Gift Shop, Plant Centre & Kitchen 1000-1700 Levens Kitchen 18 March - 4 April 2019 Sunday to Thursday (Closed Fridays and Saturdays) 1000-1600 7 April - 3 October 2019 Sunday to Thursday (Closed Fridays and Saturdays) 1000-1700 6 October - 19 December 2019 Sunday to Thursday (Closed Fridays and Saturdays) 1000-1600.

Immerse yourself in Lake District History at the Museum of Lakeland Life and Industry. Inside you can explore a typical Victorian farmers home from the food in the kitchen, to the elegance of the parlour. Other galleries tell the story of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the industrial history of this beautiful part of the world. Here you can discover the Lake District’s past in farming, mining, tanning, and many other ways that people have made a living amongst the fells. The Museum allows you to discover how people have lived in the Lake District and how the unique landscape has shaped their lives. You can also find out about Arthur Ransome, one of the Lake District’s most famous authors, and colourful characters. And why not stroll down the Victorian high street before you go to find out about the toys, food, and even medicines of the past. The Museum of Lakeland life is a must see for anyone interested in the history of this beautiful area, and with changing exhibitions looking at all aspects of Lakeland Life there will always be something new to discover.

Lovely grounds open to visitors for things to do on a full day out, set in a stunning location between Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake. Visitors of all ages welcome to enjoy, lakeside scenery, and peaceful gardens. The Poetry Walk links the literary connections to Mirehouse in the beautiful terraced gardens. The tranquil Bee Garden in home to plants and flowers particularly selected to entice bees and butterflies and provides plenty of space for quiet reflection.

Holker Hall is the home of the Cavendish Family who welcome visitors of all ages to one of the best-loved stately homes in Britain. Magnificently situated only a short distance from Grange-over-Sands and the expanse of Morecambe Bay and is set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens that merge into Parkland, framed by the Lakeland Hills.