Rosthwaite (Borrowdale) Cumbria the Lake District.

Rosthwaite and upper Borrowdale courtesy of Ann Bowker Rosthwaite, in a wide spot at the southern end of Borrowdale, is a popular village for walkers. Wordsworth chose it in 1812, and Wainwright said, "A fellwalker based in Rosthwaite is like a king with many thrones."

Rosthwaite Post Office and General store courtesy of Graeme Dougal
Part of its popularity stems from the fact that it is the start of the footpath that leads over the fell to the isolated hamlet of Watendlath. The Coast to Coast Walk, Allerdale Ramble, and Cumbrian Way all pass this way. Walking along a path beside the river to Seatoller is an enjoyable pastime.

Bowder Stone courtesy of Julian Thurgood Named by the Norse, Rosthwaite means the clearing with the heap of stones, and there were many here for the Norse to pile up. The Bowder stone, an Ice Age erratic, is a well-known landmark between Rosthwaite and Grange. The huge boulder measures more than 50 feet across, 30 feet high, and 84 feet in circumference. It is estimated to contain 23,090 solid feet of stone and weigh 2000 tons.

Rosthwaite Yew Tree Farm courtesy of Graeme Dougal Green farmland and sheep characterize this area of Borrowdale. Two farms in the surrounding area were owned by Beatrix Potter and were left to the National Trust when she died. Rosthwaite Farm had an ancient yew tree, fallen to the ground, but it still impressed Wordsworth, who said its diameter was large enough to be a cave entrance.

Rosthwaite Yew Tree Cottage courtesy of Graeme Dougal A nearby National Trust oak wood, Johnny Wood, has a nature trail. It is a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' due to the many liverworts found growing in the wood. They are so named because, in ancient times, they were believed to cure liver diseases.

On the third Sunday in September Rosthwaite sees the Borrowdale Shepherds' Meet and Show take place. Fell racing, sheepdog trials, hound trailing, and craft displays are part of the action. Rosthwaite accommodates visitors with a village shop, pubs, and places to lay their heads at night.

Rosthwaite stepping courtesy of Ann Bowker Bordered by two rivers, the Derwent and Stonethwaite Beck, Rosthwaite's white and grey stone cottages are set in the stunning Borrowdale Valley.

Location Map of Rosthwaite
Rosthwaite is five miles south of Keswick on the B5289.

Photos courtesy of Graeme Dougal , Julian Thurgood and Ann Bowker

Rosthwaite Bridge courtesy of Ann Bowker

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