A Lakeland Drive…..Bassenthwaite and Buttermere

I have just returned from a three day visit to the Lake District in Cumbria and my affection for the area continues to increase, although I still argue that there is no finer place in the UK than the Yorkshire dales…………but the Lakes is now running it close!

On one of the days we set out early to drive across country from Aitketgate, eight miles South East of Carlisle, to Bassenthwaite (technically there is only one lake in the Lake District and that is Windermere, all the rest are “waters”) passing through a variety of beautiful villages including the wonderfully named “Unthank.” We were also provided with spectacular views of the Solway Firth, albeit hidden behind a little haze and cloud.

Arriving at the very northern tip of Bassenthwaite we slowly made our way down the A66 making several stops to take in the beautiful scenery. Unfortunately, the light was not brilliant and taking photographs was a bit of a struggle, moreover, I am still getting to grips with my new Canon 200D. I did however, manage to get a shot of a superb little chapel on the far side of the lake and surrounded by trees that cascaded down the fell to the waters edge.

We then swung westwards along the B5292 and the Whinlatter Forest Park pass then down the B5289 past Crummock water to the village of Buttermere. Here we stopped for a bite to eat at Sykes Farm Café / Shop who did an excellent coffee and the best home made Quiche this side of the Ural mountains, it is the best I have ever eaten.

Full replenished we turned right onto the B5289 and then turned immediately left just past St James Buttermere chapel along a road that takes you northwards heading for Keswick. This particular un named road (and apparently un numbered) has at its apex, one of the most stunning views in the fells. Although the weather was a little over cast it was a pleasure to stop the car and just stand for a few minutes to take in the spectacular scenery, along with a good number of other visitors.

A leisurely drive through the pass eventually brought us back to the A66 and a straight run back to Penrith and then back up the A6 to our residence.

Although I have visited several places before, each visit offers something new and in particular the different seasons can give a very different perspective to the land.

Photographs (c) Kindadukish 2018