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Buttermere
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Crummock Water
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Great Gable
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High Stile - Buttermere
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Keswick - Moot Hall
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Crummock Water
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Friar's Crag - Derwentwater
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Crummock Water
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The
Lorton Vale stretches from the shores of Crummock Water to the historical
market town of Cockermouth. Lorton means crooked river and the river does
indeed twist and turn along the valley until it reaches the confluence
with the Derwent. The River Cocker is reputed to be the fastest river in
England.
Lorton is also the wedding place of the Maid of Buttermere made famous by Melvyn Bragg and soon to be made into a film. It is also the site of the original Jennings brewery which is now in nearby Cockermouth and offers enjoyable tours.
The village of Lorton is a gem, very attractive and quite undiscovered. The famous Yew in Wordworth's poem stands behind the village hall and is hundreds of years old.
The Old Vicarage itself stands on the ancient boundary between High and Low Lorton and the lane was historically known as Crossgates.
St Cuthbert's church also on this lane was founded in the 12th Century and is a short stroll from The Old Vicarage. This is a quintessential English setting.
It almost goes without saying that this spot is ideally situated for exploring the northern fells and the peace and tranquility of the nearby lakes of Crummock Water, Buttermere and Loweswater.
There are many wonderful walks from The Old Vicarage, around
Buttermere and in the Northern Lake District generally. This is one of
Wainwright's favourite areas.
Walks from the Honister Pass include the summit of Great Gable and many other famous Lakeland Peaks.
The walk around the lake of Buttermere from the village is a real must and takes only 2-3 hours. It is pure joy. Another lake walk is that around Loweswater and one of the quietest parts of the Lake District.
The famous Red Pike to High Stile ridge and the Newlands Pass are rich walking areas and provide plenty of challenges.
Other good fell walks include Melbreak, Grasmoor, Whiteside and Grisedale Pike.
For more leisurely walking the fells of Lorton and Whinlatter are no less rewarding with views as far as Scotland.The village stroll around Lorton is also popular with locals and visitors alike.
Outdoors
This is a rich walking area. See our guide to walking in the area.
There are also many other activities such as swimming, cycling, and golf
( including the famous Silloth
championship course)
Shopping
From the bustle of Keswick with its art galleries and Lake District shops
to historic Cockermouth and its antiques and auctions, a serious
shopper will not be disappointed . Perhaps combine it with a Jennings
Brewery tour but don't stay too long!
History
Visit William Wordsworth's birthplace in Cockermouth or Mirehouse on the
shores of Bassenthwaite.
The local museums include the Cumberland Toy and Hobby, the Motor
Museum and the Pencil Museum.
