Wordsworth Grasmere – Dove Cottage & Museum
Step into William Wordsworth’s world at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where poetry, nature and history come alive in the heart of the Lake District.
Step into the world of William Wordsworth at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where he wrote some of his most famous poetry. Explore the intimate 18th-century cottage, wander through the inspiring garden and woodland, and discover his life and work in the modern museum. With interactive displays, a viewing platform over Grasmere Vale, and a café serving local fare, it’s a deeply atmospheric Lake District experience for literature lovers and families alike.
A brief summary to Wordsworth Grasmere
- Town End, Ambleside, Grasmere, LA22 9PP, GB
- +441539435544
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your timed entry to Dove Cottage online in advance, especially in summer or on weekends, as slots can sell out.
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the cottage and gardens with fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Allow at least two to three hours to fully experience the cottage, museum, gardens and woodland without feeling rushed.
- Don’t miss the Viewing Station for panoramic views over Grasmere Vale – it’s the landscape that inspired so much of Wordsworth’s poetry.
- Check the website for special events, guided walks and family activities that can enrich your visit, especially if traveling with children.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Direct buses from Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick serve Grasmere year-round; the Stagecoach 555 and 599 services stop very close to Wordsworth Grasmere, with a short, level walk from the stop to the site entrance.
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Car
From the A591, follow signs to Grasmere and then to Dove Cottage; there is a pay-and-display car park on-site, but it can fill quickly in peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
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Walking
From central Grasmere, it’s a 10–15 minute walk along a mostly level, paved path to Wordsworth Grasmere, passing traditional stone buildings and offering glimpses of the lake and fells along the way.
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Taxi
Taxis from Ambleside or Windermere take about 15–20 minutes and can drop directly at the site entrance, which is helpful for those with limited mobility or heavy luggage.
Wordsworth Grasmere location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Wordsworth Grasmere
Home of a Poet, Heart of the Lake District
Nestled in the village of Grasmere, Wordsworth Grasmere is centered on Dove Cottage, the modest stone house where William Wordsworth lived from 1799 to 1808. During this decade, he wrote many of his most celebrated poems, including parts of The Prelude and some of his best-known lyrical ballads. The cottage, now a Grade I listed building, has been carefully preserved to reflect the Wordsworths’ domestic life, with period furnishings and personal items that evoke the rhythms of a Regency-era household. It was here, amid the daily bustle of family life, that Wordsworth’s revolutionary ideas about nature, emotion, and poetry took shape.A Living Museum of Wordsworth’s World
The site extends beyond the cottage to a modern museum that tells the story of Wordsworth’s radical and creative life. Through a rich collection of manuscripts, journals, letters, and personal belongings, the museum explores his development as a poet and thinker. Interactive displays, hands-on activities, and rotating special exhibitions bring his work into dialogue with contemporary voices, from Poet Laureates to local Cumbrian writers. The museum also features a working printing press, quill-writing stations, and creative workshops, making it engaging for visitors of all ages. A short introductory film helps set the scene, placing Wordsworth’s life and poetry in the context of the Lake District landscape.Gardens, Woodland and the View Over Grasmere
Surrounding Dove Cottage are the Garden–Orchard and The Woodland, a wild, relaxed space that reflects the natural world that so inspired Wordsworth. Paths wind through flowerbeds, fruit trees, and native plants, inviting quiet reflection and close observation of the changing seasons. A short walk leads to the Viewing Station, a platform offering panoramic views across the vale of Grasmere, with the fells rising around the lake. This is the very landscape that Wordsworth walked, described in his poetry and journals, and it remains a powerful place to connect with his vision of nature as a teacher and source of spiritual renewal.An Immersive Literary Experience
A visit here is structured as an immersive journey through Wordsworth’s life and times. Entry to Dove Cottage is by timed, guided tour, allowing small groups to explore the intimate rooms while learning about the poet, his family, and the process of interpreting and preserving a historic house. The experience is designed to appeal to both literature enthusiasts and casual visitors, with trails, hands-on activities, and even a Minecraft world that brings the site to life for younger audiences. The site also hosts regular events, from guided walks in Dorothy Wordsworth’s footsteps to nature journaling and poetry readings, deepening the connection between the place and the poetry it inspired.Practicalities and Atmosphere
The site includes a Lakeland café serving locally sourced food and drinks, a shop offering books, souvenirs, and unique gifts, and accessible facilities including ramps and an induction loop. The atmosphere is peaceful and contemplative, especially on weekday mornings, though it can become busier in peak season. Tickets are annual passes, valid for a year from the date of purchase, and include access to Dove Cottage, the museum, gardens, woodland, and special exhibitions. With so much to see and do, most visitors spend two to three hours, though poetry lovers often linger longer, soaking in the atmosphere of this deeply evocative place.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Friars Crag
17.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
17.3 km
Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Eskdale Mill
17.5 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Keswick Methodist Church
17.9 km
Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.
Keswick War Memorial
18.0 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
Moss Force Waterfall
18.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Moss Force Waterfall, a hidden treasure in the heart of Cockermouth, perfect for hiking and nature appreciation.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
18.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
19.1 km
Explore the historical Stott Park Bobbin Mill in the Lake District, a fascinating heritage site showcasing traditional bobbin-making in a stunning natural setting.
National Trust - Fell Foot
20.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
20.7 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Scale Force Waterfall
21.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Scale Force Waterfall, the highest in the Lake District, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.
Mirehouse & Gardens
24.0 km
Explore Mirehouse & Gardens: A tranquil escape in the Lake District, blending beautiful gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views of nature.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
24.0 km
Explore the enchanting Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes in the heart of Penrith.
Lake District National Park Authority
24.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.
Wild Ennerdale
24.6 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Wild Ennerdale, a national forest in the Lake District, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
0.6 km
Discover the historic Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, home to a unique Victorian recipe baked fresh daily in the heart of England’s Lake District.
Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
0.6 km
A serene riverside garden in Grasmere celebrating Wordsworth’s poetry with vibrant daffodils and poetic engraved stones.
Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd
0.8 km
Discover the timeless beauty of the Lake District through the evocative landscapes of the Heaton Cooper family at their historic Grasmere studio.
Faeryland Grasmere
0.8 km
Enchanting lakeside tea garden with colorful outdoor seating, boat hire, and stunning views on Grasmere Lake near Ambleside.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
1.1 km
Discover the inspiring Georgian villa of Allan Bank, nestled in Grasmere’s scenic woodland with rich literary and conservation heritage.
Rydal Cave
1.8 km
Discover the captivating man-made slate cavern above Rydal Water, blending industrial heritage with Lake District natural beauty.
The Lancrigg
1.8 km
Historic Lake District charm meets scenic romance at The Lancrigg, a timeless wedding venue nestled in Grasmere’s stunning fells.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
2.3 km
Explore William Wordsworth’s cherished home and gardens, where poetry, nature, and history intertwine amidst stunning Lake District views.
Stepping Stones
2.8 km
A tranquil riverside retreat under Loughrigg near Ambleside, blending scenic beauty with cozy comfort in the heart of the Lake District.
Lake District National Park
3.8 km
Explore England’s breathtaking Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Rothay Park
4.0 km
A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.
Colwith Force
4.1 km
Discover the serene multi-tiered waterfall of Colwith Force, a tranquil natural gem nestled in Ambleside’s lush woodland.
Armitt Library & Museum Centre
4.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside and the Lake District at The Armitt, a unique museum, gallery, and library founded in 1912.
The Bridge House
4.2 km
A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Golden Rule
4.2 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Jumble Room
0.7 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
2.6 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Dodds Restaurant
4.2 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
4.3 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucy's on a plate
4.4 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
4.4 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
4.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
4.7 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
5.7 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
5.8 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
The Samling Hotel
6.1 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
6.6 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
6.7 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
The Gaddum
7.7 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
10.9 km
A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
11.0 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
11.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
11.7 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
11.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
11.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Tesco Express
11.8 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
11.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
LAKELAND Leather
11.8 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
11.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Love the Lakes Bowness
11.8 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
CONQUER Trading Post
17.9 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Love the Lakes Keswick
18.0 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Alternative
18.0 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
18.0 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Booths, Keswick
18.3 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wainwrights' Inn
2.7 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
3.6 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
The Vault
4.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
4.4 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
7.9 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
8.6 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
10.9 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
11.0 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
11.0 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
11.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
11.0 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Hole in t' Wall
11.7 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
11.8 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Easy Breeze
11.8 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
11.8 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
11.3 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
11.8 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
28.8 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
39.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
40.2 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
40.3 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
40.3 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
Secret Carlisle
48.8 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
49.1 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
49.3 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
49.4 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Hawes Club
55.8 km
Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.
Settle Working Mens Club
64.4 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
The George Inn
65.0 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Peek A Booze
70.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
