Windemere

After leaving Chester we headed north towards the Lake District and stayed in the town of Windemere. The town is situated close to Lake Windemere, which we learned, is the largest natural lake in England. It is just over 11 miles in length and was, in 1930, the lake where the world record for speedboats was set, which was just under 100 mph.  The record holder, Henry Segrave, later died from a crash in the boat. Segrave also held the world land speed record at the same time, one of the few people to do so.

We found the town quite pleasant and stayed in a B&B within walking distance to the lake. The weather was a bit wet when we first arrived, so we decided a boat trip along the lake would be fun.

As you can see from the photo, it was a typical English summer's day as we set out, but the weather improved as the day wore on.

Our captain and commentator.

Some really splendid houses could be seen dotted along the lakeside, several of which are now hotels.

Lake cruises are very popular, including several steam powered boats.

Many of the fine houses along the lakefront had quite ornate boat houses.

After this storm passed, the weather did improve.

A much nicer day!

Our boat ride took us to Ambleside, where we disembarked and walked into town.  The Lake District is very popular with hikers and we saw many headed for the rolling hills.

Hopefully, these photos will give some idea of the hiking possibilities. We also learned that a "Freedom to Roam" act was passed by the British Parliament that allows public access, even on private land, providing the landowner's crops and animals are respected and gates are kept closed. We also heard that, in practice, most hiker's stick to the established paths.

William Wordsworth lived and worked in the area and is buried in Grasmere, yet another charming lakeside village.  Wordsworth is quoted as saying, "The loveliest spot that man hath ever found".

Most of the houses are built using the local slate-like stone. This makes them a bit severe-looking for our taste, but we did enjoy our stay at this guest house.

The locals do make very tasty scones, always served with jam and cream. I had a latte instead of tea!

There were lots of sheep everywhere and some just took over wherever they wanted!

We saw these kind of notices every now and again, some just handwritten. We were thankful to see them, but even so, we spent a LOT of time on one lane roads hoping not to meet any giant tractors or lorries.
It was a pleasant stop in the Lake District, but again, our stay was too short.
Next stop, Edinburgh.