Eskdale, Cumbria

Local Attractions

 

Walking

Wainwright thought that Eskdale is the “loveliest valley in the Lake District” and who are we to disagree! There are a large number of walks, both easy and not so easy, close to Birk How.We have a number of books containing details of local walks that you are free to use and borrow when you stay. If you would like to do some advanced planning on likely walks visit www.go4awalk.com which is probably the most comprehensive website of its type on the Internet today.

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway was originally built in the 1870’s by Ratcliffe to carry ore which was mined at the hamlet of Boot. The railway runs for 7 miles through some stunning scenery from Dalegarth to Ravenglass. Eskdale Green station is an easy 5 minute walk from Birk How, please check for train times.

Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle is located close to Ravenglass and is well worth a visit. The World Owl trust is based at Muncaster and you can also expect to see Buzzards, Kites and Kestrels. Widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Britain, Muncaster Castle regularly holds ghost sittings for those interested in the paranormal! The castle also has some beautiful gardens for you to visit and enjoy.

Hardknott Roman Fort

Hardknott Roman Fort is located at the peak of Hardknott Pass. Access to the pass is through a steep and narrow road which has a 1 in 3 gradient. Whilst the drive is challenging the view when you reach the top is spectacular. Staying with the Roman theme you may want to visit the Roman Bath house at Ravenglass which is one of the largest remaining roman structures in Britain.

Cockermouth

The town of Cockermouth is a 40 minute drive away from Eskdale and has a number of tourist attractions.Wordsworth House, the birthplace of William Wordsworth and now owned by the National Trust is especially popular. The Lakeland Wool and Sheep Centre has over 19 different breeds of Cumbrian residents together with regular sheepdog displays. For those interested in the finer things of life a tour round Jennings Brewery is worth a visit. Widely regarded as the finest beer north of Watford you should take the opportunity to purchase one or two of the different brews and take them home with you.

Fishing & Golf

Fish for Salmon on the nearby Rivers Irt or River Duddon. Contact Gosforth fishing club on 01946 725367 for details of fishing on the Irt and call in at Haverigg Post Office for a permit to fish the Irt. If it's a day on the golf course you are looking for try the nearby Seascale Golf Club.

Local Pubs

The village is very fortunate in having two very good local pubs within walking distance of Birk How. Both the Bower House Inn and the King George sell a good range of beers and an attractive Lunch and evening Menu. The Brook House Inn is only a couple of miles away and has excellent dining and bar facilities with over 100 different malt whiskies to sample. The Brook House also has regular quiz evenings which are normally held on a Sunday evening.

Local Events

To find out about local events and news in the area visit theWhitehaven News website.