The Drybarrows Ponies
Fell ponies are an enduring feature of Haweswater Cottage. There are now few areas in the Lake District where you are more likely to observe ponies on the fells. Those that reside near the cottage originated from the farm next to the cottage. They are part of the Drybarrows stud.
Walking near Haweswater
Haweswater Cottage is surrounded on all sides by quiet inviting Cumbrian fells. Take a look at our location to see exactly where we are in relation to High Street, Bampton Common and Haweswater to plan your routes. All of these routes and more are easily accessed from the cottage. You can also walk around Haweswater, a distance of around 10 miles.
Cycling around Haweswater
The roads in this area of Cumbria are significantly less crowded than the main Lakes so can be better enjoyed by cyclists. The roads are narrow of course and require a degree of care from cyclists and motorists alike but they are there to enjoy. There are also off-road tracks where mountain biking can be enjoyed.
Horse Riding in the Lake District
The nearby fells offer excellent opportunities for trekking. If you bring your own horse you will find the adjacent fells, accessible without any need to drive, offer a magical trekking experience.
Fishing on Haweswater
Fishing on Haweswater is free for those with a standard Environment Agency licence. It offers fishing for wild brown trout. The trout are not big (4-8oz) but they are free rising with fly fishing probably the most productive method. Few people fish Haweswater and it is unusual to see someone else fishing while you are there.
Bird Watching near Haweswater
Until recently England's last remaining golden eagle was often sighted here but unfortunately eagles no longer frequent Haweswater. There is a viewpoint (grid ref NY466117) on the RSPB Nature Reserve at Haweswater which is a reliable source of information on what you can expect to see throughout the year.
Wildlife around Haweswater
Deer, foxes, badgers and red squirrels are quite common.It really isn't unusual to see red squirrels scampering in the trees in the cottage garden.
Shap Abbey
Not far from Haweswater Cottage is Shap Abbey, a ruin well worth a visit. There is a 15th century tower and other remains that can be explored with the help of information panels. The site is managed by English Heritage.
National Trust
The Haweswater Valley area is the only valley in the Lake District with
no National Trust land ownership. United Utilities acquired the estate from the Manchester Corporation and does facilitate preservation and enjoyment of the area.
Lake District
While Haweswater Cottage is situated in a quiet and unspoilt area of Cumbria it is easy to access the nearby Lake Distraict to enjoy all this beautiful part of the world has to offer.