The Ultimate Guide to Grasmere: Why This Charming Village is the Perfect Lake District Base
Not sure where to stay on a trip to the Lake District?
If I had to recommend just one place to base yourself in the Lakes, it would hands down be the beautiful village of Grasmere.
Described by William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found”, Grasmere is a fantastic base for history, scenic walks, and brilliant local businesses. Being located right in the centre of the Lakes, just north of Windermere and Ambleside, it serves as the ultimate base for hikers and an ideal spot to spend a few nights while exploring the wider national park.
Where to Stay:
On every occasion we’ve visited Grasmere, we have stayed at The Yan at Broadrayne. It is a boutique hotel and bistro set on a 17th century converted sheep farm that offers cosy bistro rooms, glamping pods, and self catering cottages. The bistro itself is an award winning, laid back eatery featuring unique yet hearty dishes that showcase locally sourced ingredients.
It is genuinely a place where me, my partner and dog all feel completely at ease. It’s the kind of spot where you can truly switch off, know you’re going to eat incredibly well, and just appreciate being surrounded by mountains.
The moment you arrive, you’ll be drawn to the brilliant views from the terrace, it is the perfect spot for an Aperol Spritz in the sun. However, one of the things that truly makes a stay here is the staff. Being a family run business, you can feel the passion and effort they pour into the place. They are also some of the funniest people we’ve met and will do everything to make sure you feel right at home (even when your dog accidentally trips them up and sends drinks flying... they still laugh along with you!).
One of my favourite things about staying here is that you can park up and completely forget about your car until it's time to go home. You can grab a hiking map from the lounge, head straight out the front door, and hike fells like Seat Sandal which is an incredibly underrated Wainwright that delivers stunning views without the massive crowds. Best of all, your trail ends right back at The Yan just in time for some delicious grub.
If you don’t fancy anything too strenuous and want to enjoy the Lakes at a slower pace, it is just a scenic 25 minute walk into the heart of Grasmere village.
Top Things to Do in Grasmere:
Stroll Around Grasmere Lake: It is a really peaceful, flat walk that takes up to 2 hours, and a popular spot for wild swimming. If you are visiting in the summer, I highly recommend stopping by Faeryland, where you can hire vintage rowboats and indulge in a traditional cream tea right on the water's edge.
Visit Rydal Cave: Just a short drive from Grasmere or a longer walk from Grasmere Lake along the White Moss Trails, Rydal Cave is one of the most photographed spots in the Lake District. The cave was created as a result of slate quarrying, and sits just above Rydal Lake and is now mostly only accessible via stepping stones as a lot of the cave floor is covered in water. It’s a really cool spot and one that all the family will be impressed by.
Browse the Independent Shops: Take some time to explore the village's independent gems, such as Sam Read Bookseller or if you have a furry friend with you, stop at Rose and Ralph dog shop for some natural goodies.
Visit Allan Bank (National Trust): This is the most significant Georgian villa in the Lake District and was once home to William Wordsworth. I highly recommend taking the National Trust footpath from Allan Bank toward Easedale, the views are spectacular and the wildlife is amazing.
Hike to Easedale Tarn: Following on from the Allan Bank path, continue your hike up to Easedale Tarn. This is one of my all time favourite walks in the Lakes, featuring a stunning waterfall trail that absolutely won't disappoint. The hike takes approximately 3-4 hours and is on the more moderate side than being a leisurely stroll.
Spot the jets: If you are exploring during the week, keep your eyes peeled as you can often spot RAF Typhoons doing low level flying right through the valley. They actually fly right over The Yan.
Where to Eat in Grasmere:
Grasmere Gingerbread Shop: Almost everyone knows this world famous spot located in the village's old school house. It would be rude not to grab a freshly baked goodie to fuel your hikes.
Lucia's Coffee + Bakehouse: If you are after a coffee and a sausage roll that you will quite literally still be thinking about months after your visit, you need to come here.
Freda + Ray & Mathilde’s Café: Both of these are fantastic, dog friendly brunch spots with great outdoor seating options that are perfect for a sunny summer morning.
The Sunday Roast at The Yan: If you want what will ultimately be the best roast dinner you’ve ever had, book a table here. When we stayed on a Sunday last year and saw that the roast was served as a sharing board, I worried it wouldn't be enough for both me and my foodie partner. I have never been so glad to be wrong. The platter was immaculate, the serving size was spot on, the meat was cooked to perfection, and it completely ruined home cooked roasts for us. Even if you aren’t visiting on a Sunday, I recommend you stop by The Yan to try their famous shepherd’s pie, made with slowly braised Grasmere Herdwick lamb. It is a local staple done right, and it’s no wonder they have been featured in The Good Food Guide’s Top 100 Best Local Restaurants three years in a row.
Final thoughts:
If you’re craving a wholesome Lake District getaway packed with incredible food and spectacular walks right from your doorstep, Grasmere is the place to be. Plus a stay at The Yan is the perfect place to switch off, lace up your hiking boots, and feel completely at home.
*For complete transparency, our stay at The Yan was gifted, but all views and opinions are my own.
