“Take me to the lakes where all the poets went to die”: a swiftie’s guide to the Lake District

Maybe it’s the breathtaking scenery or perhaps it’s the profound glory of Lake Windermere, regardless, something about this place can bring out the rawest emotions in people. An ideal spot for a walk, take the time to bask in Windermere’s beauty and perhaps even allow yourself to have a minor existential crisis and test out Taylor Swift’s theory about this place being perfect for a good cry. There’s a lot more to do around the lake itself, so if you’re the more outdoorsy type, why not book a boat trip or kayak across the shimmering waters. 

This smart wordplay in Swift’s song, the reference to poet William Wordsworth, one of the founders of English Romanticism, is not only clever, but also hints at the Lake District’s wider literary history. The poet, a native to the Lake District, made many references to his beloved birthplace in his work. Be sure to head to the Wordsworth House and Garden in Cockermouth and learn all about his life while wandering the halls of the stunning Georgian townhouse. The adjacent riverside garden is also well worth a visit, providing visitors with a glimpse into what may have inspired his romantic poetry. Be sure to check opening times in advance, as these vary seasonally and entry tickets cost £8.50 for adults and £4.25 for children. 

Take a page out of Taylor’s book and get creative while at the Lake District. Of course you can grab your own set of tools, whether that’s paintbrushes, words on a page or even materials such as clay, to create whatever the area inspires you to, but we also love the idea of taking a local art class to capture everything the Lake District inspires as your muse of the day. The Makers Mills in Cumbria offers an incredible array of different artistic workshops from pottery classes, to watercolour ateliers and even glassware workshops. Open daily from 10am to 4pm, you’ll be sure to find a class that satisfies your artistic needs and will give you the tools to make the most of it. 

Set in the heart of Caldew Valley in Cumbria, Rose Castle is home to an amazing 60 acre garden that features a diverse array of fauna and flora. The delightfully enchanting outdoor space has a little bit of everything, from colourful wildflowers to capricious trees, and even calming meadows. The Rose Castle Gardens are a perfect spot away from crowds that allow you to reflect, and perhaps even write some poetry of your own. 

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park, along with being a UNESCO world heritage site. As you wander through some of the small towns in the area, you’ll find beautiful wisteria growing along the enchanting cottages, along with its famous natural landscapes. Head to Keswyck, Ambleside or even Grasmere village to soak up the natural wonders of the Lake District. It’s so easy to see what Taylor and so many poets before her have found for inspiration in this endlessly beautiful area.

This charming cottage will have you wanting to experience all of its little quirks and charms to the max. The perfect cosy spot to enjoy your weekend away from the world, you won’t want to move after settling down at Bridge End Farm.