|
First, Wordsworth House, a stately Georgian mansion in the centre of Cockermouth. Wordsworth was born here in 1770, leaving for boarding school eight years later, after the death of his mother. The house's interiors have been faithfully refurbished in the late 18th-century style, right down to the vegetable dye in the curtains. As well as some of the family's original possessions, the house has been decorated with corresponding antiques and furniture tailor-made to suit the age. There are even costumed characters from the poet's past on hand to dispense knowledge of his time in the house and on the general roles of servants in the era. By far the busiest character is the Maid, who hosts interactive demonstrations in the working kitchen. Behind the house is an attractive terraced garden growing fruit, vegetables and herbs (again of Wordsworth's time). The garden gets a special mention in his most acclaimed work, The Prelude.
After graduating from Cambridge and concluding his fabled travels to Europe, Wordsworth returned to Cumbrian life in 1799. For the next nine years he lived in Dove Cottage, in the pretty village of Grasmere. This was to be the poet's most creative period, as testified by the ample collection of original manuscripts in the onsite Wordsworth Museum. The surrounding scenery of sparkling lakes and verdant fells were Wordsworth's chief inspiration during his time here, epitomising his motto of '...plain living, but high thinking'. After his departure, the now beautifully restored cottage became the home of his literary friend Thomas de Quincey, later famous for penning Confessions of an English Opium Eater.
By 1813, Wordsworth's growing family needed a larger home, and subsequently moved the short distance to Rydal Mount. Of all the poet's former abodes in the area, this is the most idyllic. Situated in the heart of the Lake District, it commands awe-inspiring views across both Windermere and Rydal Water. The four-acre garden, landscaped by Wordsworth, is an attraction in itself, boasting many rare species of trees and shrubs. Rydal Mount was Wordsworth's home for 47 years, until his death in 1750. Inside, visitors can see his attic study, which used during his time as the Poet Laureate. Also impressive is the Tudor Dining Room, which dates from 1574, and the family bedrooms. First editions of Wordsworth's books are also housed here, along with mementoes and family portraits.
Opening times:
Wordsworth House - Apr-June, Sept-Oct: Tue-Sat (11.00-16.30); July-Aug: Mon-Sat (11.00-16.30) Dove Cottage/Wordsworth Museum - All year (9.30-17.30) except Dec 24,25,26. Last admission is at 17.00 Rydal Mount - Mar-Oct: daily (9.30-17.00); Nov, Feb (10.00-16.00) closed Tuesdays
|