Places to Visit

There is a great deal to see and do from Ravenglass, either for a short break or for a longer stay. On this page I will suggest some of the more popular destinations and activities together with a personal opinion of their respective merits. Carol and I adore this tranquil area of the Lake District National Park and - as much as running the campsite permits - explore and enjoy together the local area and its attractions. As campsite managers we see it as part of our job to know as much as we can what is available in the area that will make a Ravenglass holiday memorable. To this end we work closely with the nearby attractions, keeping ourselves aware of as much as possible in order to pass this on to our guests when they arrive. For 2013 we have produced a tri-fold leaflet that offers a selection of exclusive discounts to many of these attractions.

Good link to stuff going on in the area...http://www.western-lakedistrict.co.uk/ravenglass-and-eskdale-western-valleys

Muncaster Castle

http://www.muncaster.co.uk/


Muncaster Castle and gardens are perhaps the most popular destination for the guests that stay at Ravenglass CCC site. Situated just over a mile away from us and well within walking distance along the public footpath this is a must-see attraction.

The castle is very interesting to walk round with the option of personal audio commentary by the owners the Penningtons who also own the hotel in the village. A 'must-see' is the Owl display at around 2.30pm.

 Another spectacular display at Muncaster is the 4.30pm feeding of the Herons. Usually these magnificent birds are seen as solitary stalkers at rivers, ponds or estuaries, here they flock in large numbers and fly in like pre-historic birds of prey to feast on the free grub.



Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway

Often referred to as La'ay Ratty the 15in minimum gauge railway that runs a long stones throw from our site is, along with Muncaster Castle, the most popular destination for holidaymakers who stay with us...and for good reasons.

The 40 minute 7 mile journey allows the opportunity to view some of the most breathtaking scenery in the whole of England and was said to be Alfred Wainwrights favourite journey, so don't forget to take/charge your camera! I have done the journey several times and it never fails to be a wonderful experience. The picture below is of me and my twin lads taken last year at the end of the run, Dalegarth.



http://ravenglass-railway.co.uk/

 

The rail journey is ideal for all guests and is a great way to keep the kids entertained for a day. For those of you who want to explore there are designated stops at Muncaster Mill, Miteside, Murthwaite, Irton Road, The Green, Fisherground and Beckfoot. Also you can access the beautiful Wasdale valley from the terminus at Boot in the equally delightful Eskdale valley, although this is a stiff walk. For rail enthusiasts this journey is of obvious interest steeped in history and human interest. There are places to eat and drink at both stations and at other stops along the ride.

http://ravenglass-railway.co.uk/

Wastwater

One of the most dramatic yet sublime places to visit in England and although remote Wastwater is only a relatively short drive from our campsite. The lake is the deepest in England and is situated within the Scafell range of mountains, from which you can climb England's highest peak, Scafell Pike. Wastwater is a popular spot for many ranges of outdoor activities including canoeing, diving, walking and (not least) picnicking. It is possible to walk around the lake but it is necessary to take great care on the far side - known as the Screes - and is probably not suitable for dog-walking. We often visit Wastwater and, this year, we aim to walk from our sister site at Esdale http://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/siteseekerlite/aspx/details.aspx?id=9030 over to Wasdale head. The photos below were taken last year on a gentle day out.

Ennerdale Water

All of the Lakes in the National Park are accessible from Ravenglass campsite but what is really great is that the Lakes that are, perhaps, the least visited are the ones that are the easiest to get to from our site, notably Wastwater and Ennerdale Water. I will talk about Wastwater in the next post but today Carol and I decided to take the afternoon off and visit Ennerdale and it was brilliant. The National Trust car park is almost at the lakes edge and it is a comfortable flat walk if you decide to go along the right side. From this side you can clearly see that the path along the far side is much steeper and some scrambling is required. If, like us, you just fancied stretching your legs just keep to the flat bit and then turn round, staggering views of the fells dominated by Pillar.

 

 

 

Canoeing

 

Ravenglass is perfectly situated to access most of the Lakes in the National Park, especially Ennerdale and Wastwater. Canoeing is a fantastic option for a wonderful day out and - given the right conditions - can be both relaxing and great exercise at the same time. Carol and I have hired Canadian canoes at Coniston and Keswick for around £25-£30 which is great value for money, if you have your own canoe even better !