Things to do in Cartmel…
The Medieval village of Cartmel is nestled on the southern edge of the Lake District. The village is a hidden gem of fine dining, retail therapy, beautiful scenery and unique architecture, which is often busy with tourists during spring and summer time. Here’s a list of things to do on your visit to Cartmel…
Cartmel Priory
Cartmel Priory is the parish church of Cartmel and was built by Augustinian canons between 1190 and 1220. Unfortunately, a lot of the priory was lost during the Dissolution of the Monasteries between 1536 and 1541, however the priory church building survived through efforts of parishioners. Internally, it displays a combination of styles including Renaissance screens and choir stalls. The church holds many historic treasures including the organ, which dates back to 1867, and the church bells, which originate from as early as 1661.
The priory Gatehouse is also an exceptional surviving piece of history dating back to the time of original priory in 1330 and has many uses throughout the years including a prison and a school.
Cartmel Racecourse
Horse racing fans travel from near and far to enjoy a memorable day out at Cartmel Races. The racecourse dates back to the 19th century and now hosts popular meeting two to three times a year, with its most popular meeting taking place in Whit Week. Although the racecourse is one of the smallest in the country, it often has the third-highest attendance of any tracks in Britain, following on from Aintree and Cheltenham, with visitors often peaking at 20,000 in one day. The most popular racehorse at Cartmel is Soul Magic, who has won over seven times at the track!
Holker Hall & Gardens
Holker Hall & Gardens is the elegant family home of Lord and Lady Cavendish, whose family have owned the hall for over 400 years. The hall is one of the finest houses in South Lakeland and boasts Victorian architecture, which was added to the house following a fire in 1871. The house is open to visitors to explore with no restrictions, with exceptionally interesting rooms in the house including the library, the drawing room and the dining room, which are filled with fine displays of antique furniture and art. Once you’ve toured the house, explore the halls award winning gardens which were voted ‘amongst the best in the world’ by the Good Gardens Guide. The 25-acre grounds showcase woodland gardens with majestic water features including the limestone cascade. The gardens were a favourite spot of famous historic Lakeland landscaper Thomas Mawson due to the grounds rare conifers and rhododendrons. Relax after a day exploring in the food hall, Courtyard Café or the Ilex Brassiere. There is also a small children’s playground and picnic tables in the grounds.