Whether you’re looking for something to start off your day, or searching for that perfect date night menu, the traditional little towns in the Lakes have such a fantastic selection for you to feast upon during your stay.

10. The Cuckoo Brow – https://www.cuckoobrow.co.uk/bar-dining

The Cuckoo Brow is another lovely little suntrap, local to the Estate and just 10 mins drive from the centre of Graythwaite or 2 mins drive/ 15 min walk our Esthwaite properties. The Cuckoo Brow offers a stunning beer-garden set up where you can enjoy the vast views across the hills with a glass of wine in hand. The menu is also something to be desired: Real Ales, Good Food & Log Fire, including local crafts. Their motto is ‘muddy boots, wet dogs and children welcome’ – perfect for all the family to wind down after a day out in the countryside.

9. Bar Es Ambleside – https://www.esbarltd.co.uk/ambleside

This restaurant is nestled in Ambleside, about 20-30 mins from the Graythwaite Estate and offers a rustic Mexican themed interior, with relaxed seating for your evening meals and drinks. The food is top-notch, serving Mexican-styled tapas coupled with delightful crafts and cocktails. There is also a beer garden, which we can guarantee is magical in the summertime.

8. Ginny’s Teapot – https://www.facebook.com/ginnyshawkshead/

Another favourite in Hawkshead, this is the perfect little spot for a brunch break. With excellent options for vegans and vegetarians, Ginny’s Teapot is an idyllic little haven for you to bask in the local delights and cosy atmosphere. Let’s be honest, you can’t beat some coffee and cake on a sunny afternoon in the lakes.

7. Kittchen – https://www.kittchen.co.uk/

Located in Hawkshead (about 10 mins drive from the Estate), this is easily one of the most unique and quirky places around and generally just a cool place to visit. An independent bar, supporting independent breweries, and home to a family of seven rescue cats – what could be better? Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply looking for a feline-friendly lunch break, you will be guaranteed a good time at KITTCHEN. They also have events going on throughout the week, so be sure to check out their agenda on their website for something different to do in the lakes!

6. Bumble’s Rest Café – https://www.facebook.com/BumblesRest

Our vegan staff members commended this place with gold stars. If you are looking for a break from the buzz when exploring the towns in the lakes without the stress of trying to find a quality and inclusive menu, look no further than Bumble’s. Independent and local, this is a gorgeous little spot to watch the world go by with a full stomach.

5. The Queen’s Head – https://www.queensheadhawkshead.co.uk/

The Queen’s Head in Hawkshead has been a classic go-to for everyone on the Graythwaite Estate. With cosy and quirky interior and brilliant staff, this is a great place to go for your tea and just relax. We would recommend booking in advance, though, as they are very popular and can book out up to a month in advance in the Summer!

4. Chester’s by the River – https://chestersbytheriver.co.uk/index.html

If you enjoy outdoor dining, Chester’s is the place for you. You can sit out in the sunshine and listen to the neighbouring babbling brook with a friend and a cake. We also highly recommend their pizza!

3. Boardwalk Bar & Grill – https://boardwalkbowness.com/

A little further across the lake in Bowness, Boardwalk Bar & Grill offers incredible food for all dietary requirements coupled with unmatched views on Lake Windermere. We absolutely love this place for the sheer range of guilty toppings for fries and overflowing burgers. The restaurant is perched right on the edge of the lake with views across the harbour and beyond. Perfect for lunch or dinner – get yourself booked in!

2. Horsebox Café at Graythwaite – https://graythwaite.com/glamping/

A new addition in 2021 to the Graythwaite Estate – the Horsebox Café! Perched up at the Glamping Site through the Summer, this is an amazing little coffee hub for an on-the-go munch. You can grab a silky-smooth coffee and cake here whilst enjoying the majesty of nature out at the Glamping site. Non-residents are welcome!

1. Dude’s Dough – https://www.dudesdough.com/

Our all-time favourite, of course, has to be the famous Dude’s Dough Pizza van. With a light and fluffy crust in hand with mouth-watering flavours, you just cannot beat freshly made pizza on a warm evening on the Graythwaite Estate. Make sure to keep an eye out on their social medias to keep up to date with their menus and whereabouts during your stay, as you do NOT want to miss out!

The post Graythwaite’s Guide to Local Brunches, Lunches and Evening Munches appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

Time to find out – just on time for our brand new Glamping Site opening July 2021! Check out our exclsuive

*DISCOUNT CODE BELOW*

Get the best of both worlds with family & friends in the Famous British Lake District. Keep reading for a walkthrough of the not-so-typical Glamping Stay on Lake Windermere.

Morning-time, rise & shine!

Watch the sunrise waking up in the tranquility of nature at the Graythwaite Glamping Site. Grab a brew, read a book or take out the yoga mat for some morning me-time.

Glamping lets you get back to nature and reap the plentiful benefits that will not escape you during your stay; the beauty of waking up to take a deep sip of fresh air coupled with the peace and silence of Lake Windermere is something you just won’t get from a hotel room. With the exciteable chatter of fellow Glampers and the planning of the day ahead, the morning buzz is truly something to behold on the Graythwaite Glamping Site.

Lunch, Brunch or a hilltop Munch…

What to eat when you glamp is a surprising commonly asked question: what’s on the menu for the hybrid holiday? Whip yourself a treat with a classic fry-up over the Glampfire, picnic down by the shore or even bring your buddy up to ‘The View’ for a moment away from it all – have you ever had so many options to start your day off right?

The Lakes are filled with beautiful little cafés and restaurants for you to explore at your leisure, as well as on-the-move vendors such as the famous Dude’s Dough pizza van and the treats at the Graythwaite Local Farm Shop.

We can’t Grayth-WAIT for you to get out on the Lake for some fun on the water!

There’s so much to see in the great outdoors.

The surrounding area of the Graythwaite Estate is jam-packed with walks and hikes to meet every need and ability. With walks far and near, we don’t even know where to begin! Spend the day exploring the fells and tracks across and you never know, you might just stumble upon your own natural infinity pool. Who needs a spa when you have Glamping in the Lake District?

An evening stroll on the Estate…

End your day with a wine and a dine, followed by a scenic stroll around the 5,000 acre Estate and surround yourself in the deep history and culture of Graythwaite. You can explore the grounds nearby to the Glamping site and watch the sun go down over the green hills and radiant flowers of every colour of the rainbow. Keep an eye out on our social media for updates on what is going on at the Estate during your stay.

Book your Glamping Experience of the Summer today with your 5% Discount Code Below

GLAMP21

See you there!

The post A Day in the Life: <I>The Graythwaite Glamper</I> appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

Just as our guests travel to stay with us at Graythwaite, we at Graythwaite HQ travel across the country and overseas to visit new places too. So, when this was no longer an option, we started to look closer to home.

If you find yourself reading this, eyes rolling, we don’t blame you… how hard it must be to have not only 5,000 acres within the Graythwaite Estate, but to be surrounded by the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Lake District too. Just like you however, with every passing day our surroundings fade into the background and we too took for granted all that we have on our doorstep. 

With restrictions on travel came a blessing in disguise; the ever-elusive luxury of time. We were fortunate to find ourselves with time on our hands which we had previously spent chasing the length and breadth of the country. How pleasantly surprised we were to instead be finally following the different trails and paths we had often contemplated but left unexplored in the name of being ‘busy’. And with every new path discovered we further questioned when we became too busy to adventure?

“The loveliest spot that man hath found.”

William Wordsworth

Our 8 Steps to Adventure

1) Step Outside

We know the temptations that come with being a devout worshipper of the sofa, however we promise the second you step out the door you’ll feel better for it. The hardest part is getting out there!

2) Join the Imagination Nation

Whilst some will consider nothing short of Striding Edge a vertical feat we can in fact confirm that Hampstead Heath is an equally worthy opponent. Swap dodging Herdwick on the roads of Cumbria for dog walkers on the local common. If you are lacking inspiration we recommend the small people. They are never in short supply of the magic stuff! Go wild and release your inner child.

3) Follow Your Nose

Or, failing that, your children or dog! Some of our best lockdown adventures were the ones where we had no idea where we would end up. If you find yourself with a footpath in every direction follow whichever takes your fancy. Just make sure you have an OS Map handy for when you get hungry.

4) Slow Down

If you are going on an adventure there’s no going in half-hearted. We are talking no distractions, no I must be back for Bake Off!, no rushing to the end. We are very guilty of being so focused on reaching the summit, end point or pub that we fail to take in any of the journey there. So, our fourth step is to stop rushing and start enjoying!

5) Look Up

This is where all the best things can be found! We couldn’t for a second win a round of categories on tree or bird species, however this doesn’t mean we haven’t enjoyed spotting them this summer. When was the last time you argued that a cloud did in fact look like a T-Rex or blag the constellations of the solar system? Can you see any right now?

6) Share it with Loved Ones

For many reading this, 2020 will have been the first time the option to visit loved ones has been beyond your control. For us, this made us realise how important time together is. During the months we couldn’t be together we found new ways to stay connected. So if you are off on an adventure whilst your grandparents are sat at home, why not give them a call and take them with you. Describe the feel of the ground beneath your feet, the smells carried in the wind and the sights surrounding you. If you want to go all out why not send a postcard, because at the end of the day who doesn’t love some old school post?

7) Be Prepared

Don’t limit yourself. We’re not just talking about timescales. Remember to take water, snacks, sturdy shoes and a map just in case! If there’s a situation you haven’t prepared for then engage that imagination. Flooded footpaths were a frequent feature during our expeditions. Thankfully for us skin is waterproof, so the adventure didn’t have to end there.

8) Enjoy It!

The Oxford Dictionary defines adventure as an unusual and exciting or daring experience. So step out of the door, dare to escape your usual path and get excited! Look for something you have never taken the time to notice nor appreciate before, look forward to not knowing where you will end up, share it with someone you love if you can and enjoy yourself!

“Thank God I have the seeing eye, that is to say, as I lie in bed I can walk step by step on the fells and rough land seeing every stone and flower and patch of bog and cotton pass where my old legs will never take me again.”

Beatrix Potter

The post Escape the Everyday appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

This means two things, 1) Dry January is well and truly over *raises one of those glasses which effortlessly holds an entire bottle of wine* and 2) the countdown is now on for half term. Is it a coincidence that these two events coincide? We think not… the former certainly helps with the latter, however we should warn you that this is only a temporary fix, which is why we’ve dedicated this month’s blog to surviving half term.

We know as well as anyone how tiresome the thought alone of entertaining the whole family for seven days straight can be, forget actually achieving it, so let us do the hard work for you as we walk you through some of our favourite activities, eateries , events and places to stay this half term…

Good Grub and Plenty of Pubs!!

Infamously known for its tropical climates, planning any outdoor activities in advance in the lake district can seem ludicrous, however we like to think we’ve found the solution… The promise of a British country pub at the end, with roaring fires for the dogs, hearty pies for the foodies and plenty of ale for parents, is enough to bait the whole family. Throw in a pool table or even that magic word (WiFi) and we’re really onto a winner! On our very own doorstep sits the Old Man of Coniston in, you guessed it, Coniston (25 minute drive, 9 miles from Graythwaite Estate). This walk can very easily be scaled to meet the abilities (patience and will power) of your group, with options to start from Coniston Village or closer to the top from the free Walna Scar Road car park (if you are starting from the bottom the school in the village offers very cheap day parking and all monies go to a good cause!).

You can make the hike as long or as short as you wish, scaling the full four peaks in the horseshoe or just nipping up the Old Man and back. Along the way there are three tarns to admire, as well as panoramic views across to Lake Coniston and Windermere and as far as the Isle of Man on a fine day from the top!

For a shorter but still picturesque walk we can recommend the family favourite Tarn Hows on the other side of the village. The ducks and cows provide excellent entertainment for little legs. 

This website has lots of useful details https://www.lakeswalks.co.uk/walks/old_man_of_coniston/and we highly recommend our godsend, the app Lake District Maps Offline which is an interactive OS map with GPS showing your live location (very useful for times when you don’t want to ask for directions or wish to settle a navigational family dispute). 

Back at the bottom you have the choice of three cracking pubs! The first (the one to go to for the shortest walk back) being the Sun Inn above Coniston. As suggested by the name The Sun Inn overlooks the picturesque village of Coniston. An excellent pub with lots of character including stone walls, oak beams and a bar made from local slate. Dogs are welcome and there’s a pool room for those requiring extra entertainment. Pub grub is a plenty, we recommend the pies! And for those interested in their history there’s a newly built Boat Room which shows the Sun’s association with Donald Campbell and his attempts to break the speed record on Lake Coniston. Back down in the village lies The Black Bull Hotel. Having been in Bradley family for the past 40 years it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing and are a hit with us locals! Log burner, tick, dogs welcome, tick! For the Real Ale enthusiasts, The Coniston Brewing Co. opened and started supplying their Real Ales in 1995 and is run by Ian, the Bradley’s son and his team. Last but not least there’s an old faithful Robbie’s situated directly across from the Black Bull in the centre of the village. So should things be a little tense after dragging certain family members up a fell you can sit and lovingly admire them from the peace and quiet of the opposing beer garden.  

For more local walks, suitable for little legs, see our blog https://graythwaite.com/5-of-the-best-lake-district-walks/ 

I’d rather be inside!

If you love to be outdoors but detest the thought of exerting yourself and your family up a hill then fear not, we have alternatives for you! Whilst the promise of pub grub and cosy fires may not have convinced you to hike up a hill, there are plenty of hill free options on Graythwaite’s door step too! 

For those of you hoping to achieve a full day of activity with minimum effort may we suggest Grizedale? Grizedale Forrest sits behind Graythwaite Estate (23 minute drive, 7 miles) and in all honesty could entertain the whole party for a week with ease! Mountain biking and the adrenaline inducing Go Ape are the well-known favourites but throughout half term they have some specials lined up too! Stargazing on 14^th, 15^th& 28^thFebruary (booking essential)as well as the new interactive Shaun the Sheep Farmageddon glow trail. Turn up at the visitor centre or have a look online to find out about the bike trails, bike hire, walking trails, play area, café and picnic area all available here. Oh, and dogs are welcome too! 

Should the unpredictable Windermere weather still be planting seeds of doubt don’t despair, we have indoor activities in Cumbria too! The Theatre by the Lake in Keswick is what it says on the tin and we would argue the most picturesque theatre we’ve ever seen. Even if you avoid the outdoors like the plague, you’ll struggle to resist stretching your legs along the shoreline of Derwentwater. Throughout half term Theatre by the Lake have a selection of shows on for the whole family to enjoy. Why not make a day of it and explore Keswick? As well as multiple fells and lakes this market town boasts a delightful collection of cafes, pubs, restaurants and shops, most of which are dog friendly. On Thursdays and Saturdays, the main street is filled with the local market, flogging everything from food to frisbees! For mountain biking enthusiasts Whinlatter forest is next door, so if you’ve got a mixed group you can split off and find something everyone enjoys. 

A full day out!

If you’re looking for something indoors a little closer to Graythwaite Estate, then we can whole heartedly recommend Brockhole just across the lake. There’s no shortage of fun and games for everyone at this Lake District National Park Authority run attraction. And what’s more, all profits go towards keeping it special for future generations, so that’s your good deed of the day done!  From 14^thFebruary they have the free Art Exhibition: Landscape and Language Lost and Found, a celebration to mark the 85^th birthday of landscape charity Friends of the Lake District. 

For those of you thinking Art Shmart my kids will never stand still long enough for me brush their hair let alone appreciate some (no doubt expensive) art…how about something a little more hands-on? From 15^th– 22^ndFebruary there’s midday Craft Activities for Families. Create a Brilliant Bug Hotel for just £5.00 per child.

Fill the whole day with mini golf, tree top nets, soft play, the cafe and gift store and save yourself from  having to load everyone in and out of the car again jumping from one destination to the next!

If you’re looking for a one stop shop for a fun filled day out then look no further. 

Another half term haven you can enjoy without breaking the budget is the newly re-opened Windermere Jetty! Throughout half term they have a variety of events from water babies (don’t worry, you don’t have to actually get in the water and get the children back out!) 9.30-10.30 on Wednesdays for U5sto Model Boat Club meet up on the designated model boat pond on Mondays and Thursdays. On Saturday 14^th& 28^th7-12 year olds canjoin the STEAM Squad exploring science, technology, creativity and innovation in the natural world. £5.00 per child. 

Or, our personal favourite, save loading anyone into the car at all and embrace our Graythwaite motto, Escape, Experience, Explore, with a fun filled weekend at Graythwaite Estate. 

Half term… but Graythwaite style…

At Graythwaite our aim is to give families and friends a destination that offers it all in one place, and we’re working hard to get there!

Let’s start with the escape; sometimes you just need to! A change of scenery, country air in your lungs and mud on your boots (let’s not worry about the muddy footprints that ensue, it’s not your floor after all, it’s ours!). Come on, imagine it… the breeze in your hair, the scent of the great outdoors all around you, the view from the top with nothing but fells and lakes for miles. That moment where you feel like the only person in the world. It’s breathtaking. Yes, there may be some less desirable scents as you pass the fields of livestock and sweat may trickle down your back as you curse yourself for scrambling up a Wainwright, lost for breathe, all in the name of sodding wellness, but we guarantee you’ll feel better for it! What about the children you ask? Well, Graythwaite Estate stretches a whole 5,000 acres so there is no shortage of lake fronts and wooded fells to explore and thanks to the Estate being private you are unlikely to be either seen or heard by anyone, let alone given judging looks, when your darling children instigate WWIII after little Jimmy launched a stick into Karen’s head Mum, Dad,  it was an accident I swear…   check out our Estate walks here.

As much as we may jest there really is nothing quite like getting back to nature with the whole family. Escaping the world of LED screens, Netflix and fighting over iPad chargers, trading them instead for imaginary stick sword fights, puddles that transpire to be far deeper than bargained for and those (not so) dulcet tones conversing through bahs and moos with the locals. We know how important those stolen moments are, which is why we are always working hard to develop our explore element at Graythwaite Estate. Which is where Graythwaite Adventure comes in…

No one does fun quite like the GA team! Their tuition and customer service are second to none, they make everything feel like fun, even the boring safety bits, and guarantee smiles all round whatever the weather!! Being a family run business, they know the importance of making everyone feel included and offer almost every activity to all ages, or at the very least an element of joining in. No one gets left behind. No matter how much they may want to be (with that sodding iPad). Family favourites include 4×4 off-roading (with an instructor to keep the back-seat drivers at bay), clay pigeon shooting (to let off some half term steam), archery and family bushcraft (to prepare the children for when you leave them* on the lakeside road in favour of driving back down the M6 in peace. *Please note this is a joke and we do not condone leaving your children unsupervised at Graythwaite, we have our own to deal with!). On a serious note, it’s really no surprise that Graythwaite Adventure were awarded Cumbria Tourism Experience of the Year 2019. Don’t just take our word for it; 

Get in touch with the team today to book anything from an hour tuition to an action filled day on the land and lake! 

And we fully appreciate the beauty of a holiday is the removal of chores, that’s why we’ve roped in the delicious Dude’s Dough to serve you fresh Neapolitan pizza’s on Thursdays & Saturdays through half term! For the rest of the week enjoy a homemade meal from the Farm Shop, supplied by local eatery Hazelmere or pop to one of our favourite locals. And at the end of the day, if you’re all still talking, we recommend sinking into the sofa in front of a roaring fire with a film and some homemade popcorn drizzled with Hawkshead Relish Sauce available from the farm shop, a shameless plug we know, but it’s all in the name of convenience.

Have we sold you yet? Good! We have a handful of cottages still available and have detailed them below. For last minute rates, to book or for any more information just give us a call on 015395 31248 or email estate@graythwaite.com.   

We hope this read has made the thought of half term slightly less daunting and provided plenty of inspiration, or at the very least brought a smirk or two to your face!

For more information about any of the offerings or last minute availability at Graythwaite please don’t hesitate to get in touch either by phone 015395 31248 or email estate@graythwaite.com!

The post School’s Out | Half Term 2020 appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

by Emma Jane Events

So far we’ve shared top tips from photographers, caterers and entertainment suppliers for when it comes to navigating your special day and all that comes with it. The latest instalment, brought to you by Emma Jane Events will focus on all your design desires and guide the way when it comes to turning your Pinterest board into a reality without breaking the bank!

Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life, this blog will help you to create a day to remember.

Whether you have a creative mind, or just don’t know where to start, then this is the blog for you. Don’t be blown away by options and choices. Stick to these simple tips and work with specialists, to style your dream!

Research, Research, Research

Spend time creating a picture in your head, read magazines and look online look at others to get a rough idea of your likes and dislikes.

Look at your amazing venue, and use this as an initial guide, by considering the paint and furnishing colours. I don’t mean use this as your colour scheme – just make sure it is tied into your colour palette. Also check out previous weddings at your venue to gain inspiration or maybe understand what look you don’t want.We follow interior design sites to get inspiration… Emma Jane Events find that Wedding décor trends follow interior design trends. So if you are looking for something fresh and contemporary this is a good place to look.

Plan It Like A Pro

Select a style and colour pallet, rather than a theme or one main colour that will leave you restricted. Work with your stylist to create a mood board to bring everything together to create the finished feel.

Hiring a stylist like Emma Jane Events is not a luxury, we will work with you to create ideas and mood boards and work within your budget or provide itemised prices for you to choose from. If you do have a budget, ask your stylist how to make the most out of it.

Identify key aspects of your day and design them! Think about your day as short stories, the welcome, the vows, photo shoot, speeches, cake cutting, and first dance. A good back drop always makes an amazing picture.

Don’t rush in to buying accessories because you like them… Make sure they fit your scheme and that you need them. The last thing you need before your wedding is house full of accessories, that never get used and will not sell on. Hiring props and accessories is the cheaper, stress-free alternative.

Remember to relax! Don’t give yourself or guests the responsibility of being involved in the full set up of your venue… Leave the simple and fun parts to yourself, and get the professionals in to do the tricky and time consuming jobs, so you can get involved and enjoy the build up to the wedding with minimal stress!

Styling Ideas

Try to avoid overloading your venue with décor! Over cluttering with props can be too much and may look fussy. Simple is timeless and will always look classic.

Using ceiling hangings can transform any venue, especially one with a blank canvas like Silverholme’s Coach House. Drapes, paper lanterns, and foliage to name a few, are a few of our favourites. We recommend additional lighting such as fairy lights, festoons or Edison bulbs to create a warm atmosphere.

A main focal point such as dressed frames, or large hoops will create a wow factor for guests and will create a stunning background especially for the alter and any photo area.

Remember you can re-use props from your ceremony for other aspects of the day, there’s no need to break the bank! This not only cuts costs but ensures you get the most out of your purchase too. Emma Jane Events can be there on the day to seamlessly manage any and all transitions on your day without you realising.

Think outside the box for your centre pieces, they don’t have to be your traditional floral poesy in a vase, candlesticks and foliage is a lovely alternative.

If you’re lucky enough to have a venue like Graythwaite Estate with great outdoor space such as woods, lakes and fields, this can be used to create a whole new exciting opportunity for relaxed and romantic photos. Emma Jane Events love to dress these areas that often get overlooked. Utilise them and they soon become your favourite photo location with the added bonus of providing you with an escape from the madness, to your own magical space.

Many brides suggest they are not creative, and don’t know what they want, although meeting up with them and discussing options and ideas, they surprise themselves. Let your creative side free, this is your dream, and given inspiration and support you will create a perfect day!

For more information from Emma Jane Events please see www.emmajaneevents.co.uk

The post The Silverholme Wedding Blog | No.7 appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

History of Graythwaite

The Sandys family have lived on the estate for some 500 years since Graythwaite Hall was built in the 16th Century.

With historical gardens that were originally designed by Thomas Mawson in 1889, the gardens today follow a similar design of his to keep the tradition going. The colourful, enchanting gardens are open from April – August each year for the public to walk around and feel at peace with nature.

In 1980 the family developed the home farm complex into spectacular holiday homes and have been adding to the portfolio ever since.

Walks Around Graythwaite

With over 5,000 acres to explore the family have a picked a few of their favourite walks on the estate for everyone to explore and enjoy the picturesque views first hand.

Fishery Walk

One of the family’s favourite walks is the scenic walk around the 2.5 acre fishery located up the road from home farm complex.

This walk is approximately one mile and is a very tranquil and relaxing walk. Seeing squirrels, jumping fish and perhaps a deer along the way, this walk is not one to be missed during your stay on the estate or in the Lake District.

Leaving the Home Farm complex turn right at the end of the lane and head up the road (towards Keepers Cottage) and follow the road to the right. The Tarn will appear on your left and you can follow the tarn round clockwise or anti-clockwise. There are benches along the way for you to have a seat and take in your serene surroundings.

The Lake walk to Grubbins Point

Grubbins Point sits on the edge of Lake Windermere and has panoramic view of the lake. The walk is approximately one and a half miles long but is filled with breath taking views.

For the walk to Grubbins Point, Follow the track Sign posted ‘Hullett Hall’ in an easterly direction. The steep track will take you down to Grubbins point.

Occasionally there are private events held at Grubbins Point and therefore isn’t available to access all the time. Please contact the office on 01539531248 to check Grubbins is open to general public.

Garden Walk

A final family favourite is a walk around the gardens. The garden walk is an all time favourite due to it being so peaceful during the summer months. The Garden walk is less than a mile long so is perfect for anyone not wanting to cover much distance.

The gardens were created by Thomas Mawson and stay true to his concept of formal and informal planting set in woodland.

The gardens are open to the public between April and August. Entry is permitted by the use of an honesty box system where all money received goes back to the maintenance of the fantastic gardens.

Holiday Cottages

Whether you want a quiet get away or a family holiday we can cater to your every need on the estate with our properties sleeping between 2 – 18 guests.

To help you choose the perfect property for you to stay in whilst visiting the estate we have picked a few of our favourite houses.

Silverholme Manor

Sleeping up to 18 guests Silverholme Manor is an elegant manor house bursting with periodic character along with having all the modern luxuries. Silverholme Manor is the perfect destination for any occasion from a family holiday, to a wedding or even a weekend retreat!

Contact Us here for more information.

Hazelseat House

Hazelseat House is a large modern house that sits detached in an idyllic location for a countryside getaway. With a large kitchen diner perfect for spending time with loved ones whilst cooking or having a catch up over a wholesome meal, spacious living areas and a bubbling hot tub to sit back and relax.

Hazelseat has been recently refurbished to an extremely high standard to give guests the luxury stay they deserve.

Keepers Cottage

This perfectly renovated cottage was formally home to the head game keeper and sits in a wooded area with serene views of the estates fishery. Keepers Cottage sleeps up to 10 guests, with the open living areas the house is perfect for quality time away with your loved ones.

With a well-equipped kitchen, a cosy living area and endless amounts of walks and activities to do on the doorstep, whilst enjoying tranquil views of Graythwaite Fishery out of your bedroom window. Keepers is the ideal cottage for a memorable stay.

Cunsey Lodge

Set just meters away from the shores of Lake Windermere, Cunsey Lodge offers luxury accommodation for up to 8 guests. With four bedrooms (each with its own en-suite) and open plan living areas on the ground floor, the house is perfectly laid out and designed for spending quality time with your loved ones.

Whilst staying on the estate all our guests are free to roam the grounds and enjoy the wonderful scenery.

The post Discover Graythwaite Estate appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

by Christian Allen

Let’s talk about why, as a wedding photographer, I love Silverholme Manor and why you should too – especially if you’re looking for a unique, Lakeland wedding venue. Actually, I’m not going to ‘talk’ too much as hey, let’s show it in pictures …

FYI: If you’re after some information on how to pick the right wedding photographer, this I cover at the end of the blog below with a few succinct pointers. But first, why Silverholme should be your place to get married at …

Let’s start with why the manor has the perfect rooms for the bridal party to get ready – beautifully furnished, light and spacious:

Even the wallpaper is stunning throughout (for that perfect photographer’s backdrop!):

The Coach House (right next to the manor) is the perfect setting for your service:

Every wedding still needs a few of those group shots and the grounds immediately around the manor are perfect and importantly means that your guests don’t have far at all to go …

The surroundings are perfect, perfect, perfect for the Bride & Groom to go off for a few photos – rain or shine. (FYI: Because there are large woodlands on the grounds it means that even if it’s chucking it down – it does on occasion in the Lakes – we can still get out, protected by the tree canopies.)

Indoors in the manor offers even more photo opportunities …

One of the big advantages of going with Silverholme, as opposed to a hotel, is that you can totally put your own stamp on your wedding – every wedding I have covered at Silverholme has been unique …

It can be small and intimate …

Larger but always intimate …

Al fresco wedding breakfast looking over Lake Windermere …

Well, I must have sold Silverholme to you by now …?!!!

So, looking for that decent wedding photographer…

I’ll try to keep it short and sweet:

• Ask the venue for ones they recommend – they recommend them because they know they’re good;
• Do of course ‘Google’ too and don’t forget to look at Google images too – do a search for example on ‘Silverholme Wedding’ and pics that stand out for you you can then easily go to the linked webpage to research that photographer more;
• Don’t scrimp on the photographer – you generally get what you pay for! – and remember your photographs (apart from your memories) are what you’ll have left at the end to remind you of your amazing day;
• If possible meet face-to-face (or at least Skype if the distance is too great) to get a feel for them. A photographer is a big part of your day – it’s your day and make sure the photographer understands that!
• Research the photographer. Don’t just rely on testimonials on their website – look at Google reviews, Facebook etc;
• Another thing I always say, as you delve through their website, is are there any errors on the site (images not loading, grammar, spelling etc). This might sound a bit petty but if they can’t be bothered making sure their ‘shop-front’ is perfect then what about your photos …?

There’s always more I could add but the main thing is you’ll get that ‘feeling’ when you’ve found the right one! 🙂

Christian

www.christianallenphotography.com

The post The Silverholme Wedding Blog | No.6 appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.

by Simon Hughes

We often dream of the fairy tale wedding but for one lucky couple working with Simon Hughes made this dream a reality. At Silverholme Manor we are thoroughly spoilt to work with such a diverse range of highly talented photographers and trust that you will be able to find someone who is the perfect fit for you from our recommended suppliers!

Whether you arrive by boat, drive through the estate or descend from the sky you can immediately feel that Silverholme Manor is something special and the perfect setting for a relaxed Lake District wedding! 

Earlier in the year I had the opportunity to photograph Kym and Liam’s beautiful wedding at Silverholme Manor with their ceremony in the newly refurbished, light and airy coach house.

Whether you arrive by boat, drive through the estate or descend from the sky you can immediately feel that Silverholme Manor is something special and the perfect setting for a relaxed Lake District wedding! Here are a few tips to ensure you and your guests enjoy your wedding day to the max and get the photographs you want to remember your time there!

Choose your photographer carefully

Your photographer will be with you throughout your wedding day, so as well as choosing one whose style of photography you like, also take the time to check they are someone you can trust and will get on with! You can get some sense of what they’re like from talking to them before you book, but it’s also worth asking your planner who will best suit your personality and the style of your wedding. You can also check photographers’ reviews to see what others say. Do reviews comment on how they put people at ease? Do they mention that guests found them friendly? Do reviews mention their flexibility as well as professionalism?

Be prepared to enjoy your day

If you’re coming to Silverholme before your wedding day, arrange to meet with your chosen photographer to go through all the details of your day. Your photographer will be able to help you plan to ensure you get the photographs you want without you feeling rushed or your guests feeling bored!

Once your photographer knows all your plans for your wedding day, not only will they be able to anticipate and get the shots of all those little moments you’ve planned for, but they can also help keep things relaxed and on track and answer any questions your guests may have about what’s happening during the day.

While you’re there, your pre-wedding consultation is also a great time for a mini photoshoot so you and your photographer can get used to working with each other and so you’ll feel more relaxed on the day as you’ll know what to expect. As a bonus you’ll get a few engagement shots taken at your wedding venue to use to build the anticipation for the big day!

Don’t worry about the weather

Silverholme Manor is a great place for a wedding in all seasons and whatever the weather. Of course, being set in the Lake District means you should be prepared for any weather at all times of year.

But don’t panic, there are plenty of spots for beautiful indoor portraits at Silverholme and even more opportunities in the grounds or down by the lake if you’re up for it. Your photographer will certainly be ready to get some great shots for you indoors or outdoors, in any season, in all conditions and at any time of day!

If you’re the sort of person that likes to embrace the elements, your photographer will have umbrellas to keep dry(ish!) if it rains, but it’s worth bringing a wrap or shawl, even in the summer, in case there’s a breeze blowing off the lake. And, if you want some lakeside shots down at Grubbins Point, it might be worth having some comfortable shoes to change into too! That way you’ll be able to get some amazing portraits with the fabulous Lake District backdrop whatever the weather!

And then, if it turns out to be one of the many beautiful, sunny days we get at all times of year, that’s even better!

Enjoy your day!

Having planned for a relaxed wedding, it’s really important to take your time on the day to enjoy it to its fullest. Your day will go by so quickly, so just pause and take a breath from time to time during the day, so you can take it all in!

Bonus tip – Don’t rely on the digitals!

After the wedding, you’ll want to keep all those amazing photographs of your Silverholme Manor wedding to be enjoyed for generations to come. So whether you have your digital images delivered on a USB drive or download them directly from an online gallery, it’s well worth getting a hard copy of your favourite pictures, either in the form of prints or as an album, so you will always be able to enjoy them, even if changes in technology render your digital versions obsolete in the future!

See more of Simon’s work on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/sihughesphotos, Youtube https://www.youtube.com/c/simonhughesphotographyuk and Facebook link to https://www.facebook.com/sihughesphotos

The post The Silverholme Wedding Blog | No.5 appeared first on The Graythwaite Estate.