The windswept look as we crossed Windermere on Hawkshead ferry

Suzie’s first ukulele!

We always feel so at home here …

The Croft campsite in the distance from the top of the churchyard

Chestnuts and shot starter. Bri wasn’t impressed!

We’ve visited Hawkshead many times, but his was only our second camping trip.  Our first trip several years ago involved a two man dome tent that you couldn’t stand up in, torrential rain, and a night sleeping in our car at that time (a mini!) because it was raining into the tent.  Fortunately for me, Bri got the driver’s side with the steering wheel.  He was walking like John Wayne the next morning, but it wore off and we look back now with fond memories of that adventure!!  This time was a considerable upgrade with Jolly and even though we again had torrential rain one night, we were cosy and dry.  Happy days!

We went for a two-nighter, taking Jolly over on the Hawkshead ferry and stayed, like last time, at the private Croft Campsite

http://www.hawkshead-croft.co.uk/

It’s situated just across the road from the centre of Hawkshead.  It’s changed a lot since last time, having expanded and now boasting camping, caravans and holiday lodges.  Nice site and perfect location.

We spent much of this stay meandering around Hawkshead and on site relaxing.

There are 4 very good pubs in Hawkshead – The Sun Inn, The Red Lion, The Kings Arms and The Queens Head.  The first night we ate at the Sun Inn and the second night we booked a table at The Kings Arms.  Delicious food, although Bri wasn’t impressed with the chestnuts and a drink shot for starters.  “Boring, doesn’t taste of anything!”.

We had lunch at a cafe Poppi Red in the square.  It was nice, but busy and later as we walked around we noticed a quieter cosy cafe down a side street (forgotten the name) which would’ve been ideal.  So have a wander around.  We had a lovely walk around St Michaels and All Angels Church, Hawkshead, one afternoon.  The grounds sprawl on forever, and as you climb you get a good view of Hawkshead and beyond.  Later as I wandered around the shops, I walked into one looking for some jewellery and walked out with a ukulele!  I’m now learning to play which shouldn’t be too difficult as I already play the guitar.  I also have an open invite to bring it along to any future jamming sessions in the local pubs that the shop owner’s husband plays in!  Watch this space …

All in all a very fun and relaxing stay.

Next stop Boroughbridge.

ONWARDS!>>>

Suzie & Bri