Hawkshead

Settlement in Lancashire South Lakeland

England

Hawkshead

Path on Latterbarrow This is the path from Claife Heights, leading up the south ridge towards the summit of Latterbarrow. — Path on Latterbarrow Credit: Adrian Taylor

Hawkshead is a picturesque village located in the county of Lancashire, England. Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, it is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. With a population of around 1,000 residents, Hawkshead maintains a quaint and traditional charm that is characteristic of the region.

The village is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, which date back to the 17th century and provide a glimpse into its rich past. Visitors can admire the distinct architectural styles, such as whitewashed cottages with slate roofs and intricately carved doorways. The cobbled streets add to the village's timeless appeal, while the absence of cars enhances the sense of tranquility.

Hawkshead is also famous for its association with the renowned poet William Wordsworth, who attended the local grammar school in the late 18th century. The school, which is now a museum dedicated to Wordsworth's life and work, attracts literary enthusiasts from all over the world.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Hawkshead, as the village is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and serene lakes. It serves as an excellent base for hiking, cycling, and boating activities. The nearby Esthwaite Water is a popular spot for fishing, while Grizedale Forest offers scenic trails for walking and mountain biking.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Hawkshead offers a range of amenities for visitors, including charming tearooms, traditional pubs, and boutique shops selling locally crafted goods. Overall, Hawkshead is a delightful destination that embodies the timeless allure of the English countryside.

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Hawkshead Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.370097/-2.996899 or Grid Reference SD3597. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path on Latterbarrow

This is the path from Claife Heights, leading up the south ridge towards the summit of Latterbarrow.

Adrian Taylor

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels, Hawkshead

A Grade I listed building. A chapel existed on the site in the 12th century, which was extended to the length of the present church in about 1300. The north and south aisles were added in 1500. In 1578 its status was raised from being a chapelry that of a parish; credit for this has been given to Edwin Sandys, who was born in the village, and who became Archbishop of York.

pam fray

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels, Hawkshead

The East Window. A chapel existed on the site in the 12th century, which was extended to the length of the present church in about 1300. The north and south aisles were added in 1500. In 1578 its status was raised from being a chapelry that of a parish; credit for this has been given to Edwin Sandys, who was born in the village, and who became Archbishop of York.

pam fray

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels, Hawkshead

One of the south windows. A Grade I listed building. A chapel existed on the site in the 12th century, which was extended to the length of the present church in about 1300. The north and south aisles were added in 1500. In 1578 its status was raised from being a chapelry that of a parish; credit for this has been given to Edwin Sandys, who was born in the village, and who became Archbishop of York.

pam fray

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels, Hawkshead

A Grade I listed building. In 1680 James Addison was commissioned to clean the interior walls of the church, to paint 26 biblical texts with decorative borders, and to paint borders round the pillars and arcades. These were repainted in 1711–12 by William Mackerath. They were restored in 1875 by William Bolton.

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Fox-and-Cubs, Hawkshead churchyard

An orange hawkweed. The name of 'Fox-and-Cubs' refers to the way that many of the unopened flower heads hide beneath those that have opened. The seed-head of orange hawkweed is both smaller and coarser than that of the dandelion, to which it is related. Fox-and-Cubs is often found in churchyards and graveyards.

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Hawkshead Grammar School

Founded in 1585 by Archbishop Edwin Sandys of York, who petitioned a charter from Queen Elizabeth I to set up a governing body. The early School taught Latin, Greek and sciences, including arithmetic and geometry. Although the School closed in 1909, the building functions today as Hawkshead Grammar School Museum. William Wordsworth was a pupil here. The building is Grade II* listed

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The Red Lion, Main Street, Hawkshead

Hawkshead's oldest pub, a 15th century coaching inn. A Grade II listed building.

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Detail on the Red Lion Inn, Main Street, Hawkshead

Below the eaves are two figurines, this one represents a farmer taking his pig to market. The building is Grade II listed, a 15th century coaching inn, the oldest pub in the village.

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Detail on the Red Lion Inn, Main Street, Hawkshead

Below the eaves are two figurines, this one depicts a man with a whistle. The whistle was blown to start the market sales in the village. The building is Grade II listed, a 15th century coaching inn, the oldest pub in the village.

pam fray

B5285 at Main Street junction

Colin Pyle

Lane at Fold Gate

Colin Pyle

Hedge rising at edge of field

The B5285 descends alongside the trimmed hedge which appears to have been grown alongside a fence which it is demolishing as it grows. Highfield House is the large residence at the top of the slope.

Trevor Littlewood

Wise Een Tarn from the South

Taken from about 120m above the ground, this is the view northwards from nearly above Moss Eccles Tarn

Andy Beecroft

Location of OS Cut Mark - 1GL Bolt: Hawkshead, Church

thejackrustles

St. Michael's Church, Hawkshead

thejackrustles

Garden behind Hawkshead Hill Baptist Church

A very restful place, which is the intention. At the bottom is an outdoor baptistry.

Bill Boaden

The open air baptistry at Hawkshead Hill

It is described by OS as a tank. It is not known how old this is, but the Baptists have been meeting on the site since 1709 when the cottage was registered as a meeting place.

Bill Boaden

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Hawkshead is located at Grid Ref: SD3597 (Lat: 54.370097, Lng: -2.996899)

Administrative County: Cumbria

District: South Lakeland

Police Authority: Cumbria