Iconic Cumbria – Myths, Legends & Luxury Stays at Linthwaite House
Iconic Cumbria: Legends, Lakes & Luxury
Nestled in north-west England, Cumbria is more than a landscape - it’s a living tapestry of myth, history, and cultural inspiration. From Neolithic stone circles to contemporary arts, this remarkable region stirs the imagination and soothes the soul.
Myths & Legends: Tales Woven in Stone and Water
One of Cumbria’s most enduring legends lies at Long Meg and Her Daughters, a majestic Neolithic stone circle near Penrith. Believed to have been built between 3200 and 2500 BC, it features swirling rock art and a towering monolith known as Long Meg. According to local folklore, these stones were once witches, turned to stone by a Scottish wizard. It is said that counting the stones twice may bring magic or misfortune, depending on the outcome.
Cumbria also holds its share of mysterious lake creatures. In Windermere, tales abound of “Bownessie,” a serpentine monster said to lurk beneath the surface. Bassenthwaite Lake has its own aquatic legend - “the Eachy,” a water-dwelling creature steeped in local myth. The region is equally rich in fairy folklore, with Castle Howe Hillfort and the windswept Hardknott Pass often whispered about as gathering places for the fae.
Arthurian echoes can also be found here. Pendragon Castle, though its stonework dates from the 12th century, is linked in legend to Uther Pendragon, father of King Arthur. Sites like King Arthur’s Round Table near Penrith also nod to these ancient tales, weaving Cumbria into the tapestry of Celtic and medieval myth.
Tarn Wadling, a now-vanished lake between Carlisle and Penrith, is remembered not only for its medieval carp but also for ghostly visions and the eerie ringing of unseen bells at dawn. This place, like many in Cumbria, has been associated with Arthurian poetry and the idea of the land as a liminal space between the seen and unseen worlds.
Literary Echoes: From Wordsworth to Ransome
Cumbria’s landscapes have inspired generations of writers and poets. William Wordsworth famously described the Lake District as “The loveliest spot that man hath found,” and he, along with John Ruskin, drew deep creative inspiration from the region’s natural beauty.
The area is also home to literary treasures like Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, which remains a beloved destination for fans of her tales. Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons further immortalised the region, with Coniston Water’s Peel Island thought to be the model for his fictional Wild Cat Island.
Friars’ Crag, a promontory overlooking Derwentwater near Keswick, has long captured the imagination of artists and writers alike. Celebrated by Ruskin and Southey, painted by J.M.W. Turner, and fictionalised in Swallows and Amazons as “Darien,” it offers one of the most inspiring vantage points in the Lake District.
Cultural Vibrancy: Art, Festivals & Hidden Gems
Beyond its legendary past and literary heritage, Cumbria thrives as a hub of contemporary culture. The Rheged Centre hosts innovative exhibitions, Penrith offers intimate creative workshops, and Blackwell showcases the enduring elegance of the Arts & Crafts movement. Natural landmarks such as the rewilded Foulshaw Moss demonstrate the region’s commitment to conservation, while sites like Long Meg continue to draw visitors seeking a connection with ancient heritage.
Every November, Kendal becomes the epicentre of outdoor and adventure culture during the Kendal Mountain Festival. This internationally acclaimed event features more than 200 experiences, from films and talks to music and literary discussions, all celebrating mountain life and the spirit of exploration.
Cumbria also nurtures modern literary voices. Authors like Scott Preston, shortlisted for The Borrowed Hills, channel the region’s dialects, landscapes, and daily rhythms into compelling contemporary fiction.
Stay in the Heart of It All: Linthwaite House
For those wanting to experience the very best of iconic Cumbria, Linthwaite House is the ultimate retreat. Perched on a hill with sweeping views over Windermere, this luxurious hideaway offers individually designed rooms, manicured gardens, and even a private tarn with rowing boats. Guests can enjoy leisurely games of boules or giant outdoor chess, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.
Dining at Linthwaite House is equally exceptional. Henrock, overseen by celebrated chef Simon Rogan, offers a seasonal menu sourced from his regenerative farm in the Cartmel Valley. The Bar & Conservatory provides the perfect setting for afternoon tea or expertly crafted cocktails, with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells.
Cumbria’s Irresistible Allure
Cumbria is a land where myth and modernity meet, where ancient stone circles share the stage with contemporary art, and where wild landscapes inspire both folklore and fine dining. From the mysteries of Long Meg to the literary footsteps of Wordsworth and Potter, every corner offers a story. And with Linthwaite House as your base, you can immerse yourself in all that makes Cumbria truly iconic.
