A Friendly Guide to Visiting Hawkshead, England

Welcome to Hawkshead, where sheep outnumber people, history oozes from the very walls, and the quaint archetypal English countryside charms the pants off everyone who visits. Tucked beautifully into the south of England’s Lake District, Hawkshead village is pocket sized with a big personality and an abundance of history. Whether you’re looking for holiday cottages in Hawkshead, are visiting for the literary legends, jaw-dropping scenery, or just a wander and a decent slice of cake, this guide will steer you right.

How to Get to Hawkshead, Cumbria

Where is Hawkshead? If you’ve heard or read about the charm and natural beauty of this area but aren’t quite sure of where it is, we’re here to shed some light. Hawkshead is located in Cumbria’s South Lakeland district, between Esthwaite Water and Grizedale Forest, west of Lake Windermere and north of Coniston Water. 

Getting there depends on whether you’re driving, but either way, you’ve got options. If you’re on public transport, you can take the 505 bus from Ambleside, which drops you right outside Hawkshead Visitors Centre (perfect if you’re looking for additional Hawkshead tourist information when you arrive). From the opposite direction of Newby Bridge, you’d need to get the number 6 bus up to Windermere or Ambleside and change onto the 505 from there. It’s not a speedy route, but it is scenic! 

By car, it’s a bit more straightforward. From the A590 at Newby Bridge, take the A592 north toward Lakeside, then turn left onto the B5285. Follow the B5285 through Finsthwaite and past Esthwaite Water directly into Hawkshead. From Ambleside, take the A593 southwest toward Coniston. After about a mile, turn left onto the B5286 at Clappersgate. Follow the B5286 south through Outgate – it leads directly into Hawkshead.

But our personal favourite is hopping on a Windermere ferry from Bowness Ferry Nab. This Hawkshead ferry ride is short and sweet but iconic because of the killer lake views. If you want to take the ferry but are travelling by bus, take advantage of the Cross Lakes Shuttle during the summer months, a combined boat and bus ticket for travel between Bowness, Sawrey, Hawkshead, Coniston and Grizedale. 

Once in Hawkshead, ditch the car. The village is gloriously car-free in the centre. Hawkshead parking is limited though, so try and arrive early to catch a space in the one car park available – just outside the village – and enjoy walking its quaint cobbled lanes. Some cottages in Hawkshead will provide a parking space for residents, so you can rejoice if this applies to you!

Good to Know: 

• For the Cross Lakes Shuttle, you can’t purchase tickets online. Make sure you get them at Bowness Pier, then show your boat ticket to the driver to board the bus. 
• Additional parking spaces can sometimes be found in the grounds of Hawkshead Primary School. If you do park here, be sure to be generous and leave some change in the honesty box to contribute to the community. 
• If you get the ferry over to Hawkshead, make sure you stop at Joey’s café near Claife Viewing Station. They are an awesome, eco-focused, plant-based bakery & coffee house well worth the visit. Expect a friendly welcome and delicious baked goods every time!
• Hawkshead to Windermere, by car, takes about 10 minutes on scenic, windy roads, so it’s the perfect base if you want to visit the iconic lake, but don’t fancy residing there with the masses for your entire trip.

Things to do in Hawkshead Village

Now for the fun part! Like lots of places in the Lake District, you’re spoiled for choice of what to do in Hawkshead. Hikers, history enthusiasts, thrill seekers and foodies – be assured – Hawkshead has something to tempt you. From lakeside strolls to treetop adventures and literary landmarks, this village and its surrounds pack a punch.

Wander Through Time – Hawkshead History & Culture

Hawkshead Grammar School

School? You ask? Yes, we’re sending you back to school – but in a good way. This 16th-century schoolhouse with its slate floors and oak beams once schooled none other than William Wordsworth and offers a vivid glimpse into 16th-century education. Today, it’s a museum where visitors can explore historic classrooms. You can even still see Wordsworth’s name carved into the old desks, a mark of his words well before he was a famous literary figure!

The Beatrix Potter Hawkshead Gallery

The quirky Hawkshead art gallery is housed in the former office of her husband, solicitor William Heelis. You’ll find original sketches, watercolours, and some seriously charming artefacts. Fun fact: Beatrix didn’t just write the beloved children’s fiction we all know and love; she was a savvy businesswoman and conservationist who bought land to preserve it. 

St Michael and All Angels Church

This renowned 12th century Hawkshead Church sits at the top of the hill in the village. Worth the short walk from Hawkshead, it rewards those who puff their way up there with stunning views and a peaceful churchyard. Internally, the church has been well maintained over the centuries and still features 17th and 18th century painted scripture texts and a decorative dog-toothed border on the pillars. Externally, keep an eye out for an old sundial and gravestones with epitaphs that are… quite creative. Think poetic verses, personal quirks, and humorous reflections on life and death. 

Exploring Beyond the Village – Walks, Woods, and More Nearby

Tarn Hows

If you’re a walker (or even a meanderer), Hawkshead is prime territory. There are tons of walks in Hawkshead for all levels of ability, so you can start straight from the village. But if you fancy a short drive or a longer walk, Tarn Hows is a scenic and family-friendly loop. If you think that looks like it was designed by a landscape artist, you’d not be far off the mark. Landscaped by James Garth Marshall, the owner of the Monk Coniston estate in the 1860s,  Tarn Hows was created by damming the outflow of three smaller tarns and planting trees to enhance the landscape. His vision included strategically placed clumps of trees, rocky knolls, and a view of the Lakes beyond. It’s truly beautiful in all seasons, even in classic Lake District drizzle!

Latterbarrow

Looking for something more off the radar? Try the hike up Latterbarrow, one of the Outlying Wainwrights. It’s not too gruelling, and was classified as “primarily for old age pensioners and others who can no longer climb high fells” by none other than Alfred Wainwright himself. But the views are spectacular and wonderfully disproportionate to the effort required to reach the pinnacle. Check out the big obelisk at the top!

Hill Top House

The Beatrix Potter house, Hill Top Farm, is a time capsule of her life and imagination. Located just outside Hawkshead, it’s still filled with her belongings and garden inspiration. From here, you can explore the idyllic lanes toward Near Sawrey too.

Wray Castle

Perched above the north western edge of Windermere near Low Wray, this quirky, mock Gothic castle isn’t quite what it seems – it was never actually a royal residence! With turrets, trails, and lake views, it’s a fun detour for families, walkers, or architecture fans with a sense of whimsy. A Wray Castle walk is easy, pretty and can even include a paddle in Windermere for the brave.

Grizedale Forest

For forest lovers and adrenaline junkies, Grizedale Forest is within easy reach of Hawkshead and offers sculpture trails, mountain biking, and Go Ape if you fancy swinging through the trees like Tarzan. As well as all the white knuckle activities, lower-key walks in Grizedale offer the chance to breathe beautifully clean air and feel energised by the forest canopy.

Eat, Drink and Be Merrily Stuffed – Places to Eat in Hawkshead

Pubs in Hawkshead

For a small village, Hawkshead has a surprising number of places to enjoy food and drink. The Queen’s Head, Hawkshead, serves hearty pub grub that will leave you joyfully comatose. If you like your ale with a side of history, The Sun Inn, Hawkshead dates back to the 17th century and still has the original low-beamed ceilings. Tucked off the main square, The Red Lion in Hawkshead blends rustic charm with a touch of eccentricity – think mismatched chairs and surprisingly excellent vegetarian options for a pub older than most countries. One thing is certain, in Hawkshead Lake District pubs, muddy boots and good stories are always welcome.

For something more quirky, Kittchen Café (yes, that’s how it’s spelt) is an independent craft beer bar and shop specialising in Cumbrian craft beer. But here’s the twist – it doubles as a cat café and cabaret bar. Not only that, the bar operates weekly ghost walks which guide you through the labyrinthine ginnels of historic Hawkshead, with tales of terror along the way!

Hawkshead Cafés

Ginny’s Teapot is a snug little spot with vintage vibes and dangerously good cakes. Great for a quiet cuppa and a cheeky slice (or two). Set in a beautifully beamed building, Minstrels Gallery, Hawkshead offers homemade treats in an atmospheric, wood-panelled setting that practically whispers, “order dessert.” It’s part tea room, part time machine, with a menu that leans towards traditional but is always comforting. The views upstairs aren’t bad either. Part café, part boutique, all charm. Poppi Red is as colourful as its name suggests, with cheerful décor, light lunches, and good coffee. It’s the kind of place where you pop in for a tea and leave with a notebook, earrings, and cake (obviously).

Side note: For those wanting some battered goodness, there isn’t a classic chippy in the village. For Hawkshead fish and chips, head to The Queen’s Head or Red Lion, both serve up crispy fish and chips done right, so worry not – you can still get your fix.

Hawkshead Village Shops

If you like a good browse, you’ll be surprised to find plenty of shops in Hawkshead to spend your holiday pennies in. Do not miss the Hawkshead Relish Company – they make award-winning chutneys, relishes and sauces that could turn even a dry cracker into a gourmet snack. Try the Bloody Mary Ketchup – it’s life-changing.

The Honeypot is your go-to for locally made gifts, pies and sweet treats. Be prepared to spend a small fortune, though – everything is delicious! The Chocolate Factory, Hawkshead, is another must-stop for sweet-toothed visitors, offering handmade treats, dreamy hot chocolate, and even chocolate-making workshops. 

For typical holiday gifts, Haddows of Hawkshead is a one-stop shop. Blending art, homeware, and thoughtful gifts with a modern Lakeland twist, you can find all sorts, from ceramics to quirky cards.

For anyone in the market for some special outdoor attire, there are even Hawkshead clothes shops on offer. Does this village ever stop giving? Stewardsons of Hawkshead is a family run shop selling a range of outdoor and country clothing, as well as footwear and accessories. You’ll find classic pieces like Barbour waxed jackets, Hunter wellies, and quilted jackets alongside contemporary styles from brands like Joules.

Seasonal Shenanigans

Hawkshead might be sleepy, but it knows how to party (in a wholesome, villagey sort of way). The Hawkshead Christmas Fair is a delight – think mulled wine, hog roast, multiple stalls, handmade gifts, and enough fairy lights to make the National Grid sweat.

In summer, look out for the Hawkshead Show – a locally renowned agricultural fair in the Vale of Esthwaite, featuring home produce, flowers, vegetables, arts and crafts, and of course judging of a large variety of sheep, horses, dogs & cattle. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a perfectly coiffed Herdwick.

Snap Worthy Spots 

The stone arch in the Hawkshead Grammar School courtyard

Tarn Hows at golden hour

The crooked lanes in the village centre

Any window box spilling over with geraniums (trust us, in the summer, there are lots)

The view from the churchyard looking back down into the village

The old archways and wonky passageways between buildings in Hawkshead – some barely wide enough for two people – often open onto hidden courtyards or tucked-away gardens.

Top Tips from Those in The Know

• Bring waterproofs. Just do it.
• Most places don’t serve food late, so don’t plan to have dinner at 9pm – unless you want to eat trail mix.
• Mobile signal is patchy in Hawkshead and surrounding area. So download maps in advance, or pretend you’re in 1995 and ask for directions or even buy a paper map!

Hawkshead Cottages

Hawkshead is small, but it packs in charm and quirky personality. Those looking for hotels in Hawkshead may find that they’re better placed looking for cottages to rent in Hawkshead instead. You’ll find there’s more choice of cottages in Hawkshead than hotels, and the bonus is that you have all the amenities, space, and comfort of a proper home, but can leave all the cleaning up to someone else when it’s time to leave. 

Coppermines cottages have a brilliant selection of cottages to rent near Hawkshead. We also specialise in dog friendly accommodation in Hawkshead and its surrounding areas, so you can bring your furry friend(s) along for the holiday. From cosy, 1 bed snugs for a couple’s getaway, to spacious homes for the whole family to enjoy, you can find the exact Hawkshead cottage for your needs.

For advice on anything Lake District cottages, or even just to pick our brains about Hawkshead things to do, The Coppermines team are here to help. So just pick up the phone, or drop us an email and we’ll be here with a big welcome.