From the river Esk’s estuary at Ravenglass to its starting point 2,500 feet high in the mountains, the valley of Eskdale has a wealth of history and attractions to bring visitors to the area, though it is one of the quieter corners of the Lake District. Indeed, it lacks a Lake, but Eskdale does have waterfalls aplenty in the surrounding fells and tarns high in the hills bordering it. Eskdale’s history is a long one, and walkers will come across evidence of pre-historic habitations as they explore the fells. Neolithic people, probably from Ireland, cleared much of the land for agriculture, and traded in axes made from Scafell’s volcanic rock. In the Bronze Age settlement continued and above the lovely village of Boot you will find five stone circles from this period, and there is another at Eller How. The Romans built forts at Ravenglass and Hardknott, with much of the layout of the latter still visible in its ruins. This area was of strategic importance as regards defences against raiding Scots. The Scots of a later epoch, still raiding, were part of the reason for Muncaster Castle being built – part of this glorious mixture of architectural periods is one of Cumbria’s pele towers, a refuge when raiders came. Muncaster is said to be one of the country’s most haunted homes, with some foul murders and a psychopathic jester the causes. Eskdale can be explored by car, but it is more fun to use the narrow-gauge Little Ratty, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway to relax for a few miles before setting off on foot or by bike (though cyclists should reserve space for their machines in advance). This is a working railway as well as a tourist attraction. Built in 1875 to shift iron ore, it has had a chequered history, changing owners many times, and changing gauge from 3’ to 15”, but it has been a delightful way to travel the valley for tourists for decades, with stations from Ravenglass to Dalegarth (near Boot) via Eskdale Green, with many more stops on its
Cottage
Inn
Pub and Bar
Boot Inn
King George IV Inn
Lutwidge Arms Hotel
Self-Catering
Shops
Places to Stay near Eskdale
Stanley House (0.77 miles)
This converted former hostel, has been sympathetically converted into 12 ensuite bedrooms, with stunning views either of the fells to the North or the gardens, rivers and fells to the South. All rooms are very ... More | visit website
Gatehouse (0.82 miles)
We are able to offer B&B accommodation in single, twin and triple en-suite rooms from £38.00 per person per night - ... More
Bridge Inn (0.87 miles)
AWARD WINNING BEAUTIFUL FAMILY RUN COUNTRY INN SITUATED IN THE WASDALE VALLEY CLOSE TO WASTWATER, SCAFELL, GREAT GABLE ETC. MUNCASTER CASTLE AND THE RATTY RAILWAY AT RAVENGLASS. REAL JENNINGS ALES, ... More
Bower House Inn (2.00 miles)
In a remote Lake District Valley Bower House Inn (Built in 1725)offers Tradition, Hospitality and an award winning Restaurant. Friendly staff and a range of cask ales and fine wines. A place to relax and ... More | visit website
Bridge Inn (3.03 miles)
Low Wood Hall Hotel (3.15 miles)
Low Wood Hall Hotel is a delightful getaway for couples, families, business travellers and adventurers alike, ideally situated in the unspoilt spectacular scenery of the Wasdale Valley. All of ... More
Hodgson House (3.24 miles)
Click here to book this cottage with Hoseasons
At the foot of the Lake District's Western Fells, Hodgson House (left of left photograph) is one of a select number of properties enjoying a stunning setting ... More
Muncaster Country Guesthouse (4.08 miles)
Carleton Green (4.71 miles)
Lutwidge Arms Hotel (4.84 miles)
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