Travel
This new strolling path is one of the best ways to see the Lake District with out a automobile
The rain rolled over me like a wave because the wind unleashed one other whip.
Elba, my labrador, peered down at me – ears flapping, tongue lolling – earlier than loping out of view. Wanting round for the primary time shortly, I observed vibrant inexperienced ferns carpeting the valley, the move solely interrupted by Greenhead Gill’s snaking path. Surrendering to the weather, I opened each arms extensive to catch thick droplets of rain on my face.
I used to be within the Lake District to walk the 21-mile Wordsworth Means, named after the Romantic poet who made the nationwide park his dwelling. There’s a extra leisurely 14-mile route, however I tried the longer stretch, utilizing public transport hyperlinks at both finish.
Learn extra: The best hotels in the Lake District
Making the Wordsworth Way – which opened in April – accessible by public transport was a high precedence for one of many teams behind the venture, Friends of the Ullswater Way.
“It’s a part of a concerted effort to create an environmental community of routes,” mentioned group trustee, Tim Clarke.
“The broader mission is to permit folks to go to the realm and revel in its magnificence and tranquillity with out polluting the setting.”
It’s a straightforward hop on the hourly 508 Stagecoach service from Penrith prepare station to the route’s begin in Glenridding.
Regardless of the drizzly and windswept day, I headed to the higher deck of the open-top bus, and I used to be not alone. As we skimmed the shores of Ullswater, walkers within the surrounding seats pored over maps and deliberate their routes.
The primary stretch of the stroll, from Ullswater to Grasmere, is eight miles lengthy. It’s the location of Wordsworth’s adolescence and pure training, crossing energetic fell paths, historical woods and rolling farmland.
From Glenridding pier, on Ullswater, I gazed over glassy water to the stony faces of the fells, mist curling round their peaks.
Wordsworth was deeply affected by the looming mountains right here. Wanting on the similar view, I felt awestruck within the presence of the identical giants.
Learn extra: The best budget-friendly hotels in the Lake District
To navigate, I used to be utilizing a mixture of GPX files from the route’s website and the official guidebook.
Author of the information and College of Cumbria alumnus, Jade Cookson, has mentioned that “the spirit of the Wordsworth Means is to decelerate, learn the panorama, and see it by means of poetry in addition to your individual eyes.”
As such, there are poems and extracts within the information alongside conventional instructions, encouraging ramblers to note the small particulars.
Threading collectively pre-existing paths, the route unfolds in 4 levels, every tied to a distinct chapter of Wordsworth’s life. However there’s a forged of characters on the coronary heart of this stroll.
As Cookson explains, “I wished to maneuver away from presenting Wordsworth as a solitary genius wandering alone, and as a substitute present the community of household and buddies who formed his work.”
Writings and journal entries from William’s sister, Dorothy Wordsworth, and fellow poet and collaborator Samuel Taylor Coleridge, are woven all through the narrative.
Persevering with previous Jenkins Area, a wildflower meadow with golden grasses and buttercups that tower on stilt-like stems, the route plunges into the center of Grisedale valley.
I traced a dry stone wall within the firm of historical timber, the river thundering beneath my ft. On the basin of the Helvellyn vary, the monitor reaches wilder territory, and the dramatic fell surroundings right here is a number of the better of your entire route.
I picked previous scree and boulders, pausing for a poignant second at The Brother’s Parting Stone, a landmark of the farewell level between William, Dorothy and their brother John, who died at sea in 1805.
After a day within the fells, a pleasant welcome awaited Elba and me at The Inn at Grasmere, a standard nation lodge best for exploring the village on foot. Right here, you’ll be able to sup actual ales on faucet from breweries in close by Hawkshead and Appleby, and tuck into hearty pub fare like steak and ale pie.
Whereas right here, it’s price calling at Wordsworth’s former properties: Dove Cottage and Allan Financial institution. In my room later, I appeared over the scramble of slate roofs and studied the rocky faces of Silver How and Lang How fells, the ridge line curving out of view.
The second stroll includes a heart-pumping climb to Alcock Tarn, contrasted by a day’s amble alongside the stony Coffin Path to Rydal. This was one in every of a number of historical pathways utilized in late medieval occasions to move the lifeless to church buildings with burial rights.
I loved panoramic views over Rydal Water, with Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Cave framed within the background. With an emphasis on household connections, stroll three passes one other of Wordsworth’s former properties, Rydal Mount, and the daffodil area devoted to his daughter Dora, who died in 1847.
The next morning, beneath a sweeping hoard of cackling crows, I made a beeline for Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread store, a former schoolhouse that Wordsworth’s youngsters attended between 1811 and 1813.
In a queue snaking across the neighbouring St Oswald’s churchyard, I welcomed wafts of buttery caramel and spiced ginger. Biscuits in hand, I wandered amongst the yew timber, eight of that are mentioned to have been planted by Wordsworth himself.
The poet and his household are buried right here, so I took a second at their weather-beaten graves, together with a gradual stream of tourists.
The fourth and ultimate stretch follows a paved nation street beside the River Rothay. Alongside the best way, the route explores the properties and lives of literary figures related to Wordsworth, corresponding to Thomas De Quincey and Harriet Martineau, earlier than ending on the market city of Ambleside.
From right here, Stagecoach providers 555 and 599 connect with Windermere prepare station. Whereas Wordsworth famously opposed the introduction of the Kendal and Windermere railway within the 1840s, at this time he may need welcomed this extra considerate method of connecting with the land he beloved.
Find out how to do it
Rebecca’s journey was supported by Stagecoach. Buses run hourly (each two hours exterior public and college holidays) from Penrith prepare station to the route’s begin in Glenridding. A North West Explorer ticket prices £12.
Obtain the Stagecoach app to purchase prematurely. Catch a prepare to the Oxenholme or Windermere from most main UK cities together with Manchester, London and Edinburgh.
Go to the Friends of Ullswater Way website for extra particulars in regards to the route.
The place to remain
Rebecca was a visitor of The Inn at Grasmere. Mattress and breakfast rooms begin at £130 per night time (dinner packages additionally out there.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
Travel
How the federal government shutdown impacts journey – ABC Information – Breaking Information, Newest Information and Movies
Celebrities5 months agoBen Shephard’s relationship ‘settlement’ with spouse Annie as he points her warning
Entertainment2 years agoAny person Get Snowboarder Brin Alexander an Invite to the Pure Choice Tour
Celebrities3 months agoBeloved Gogglebox couple reveal ‘axe’ from Channel 4 sequence
Travel2 years agoBelize on a finances – Lonely Planet
Travel2 years ago8 of the very best locations to go to within the Bahamas
Celebrities2 years agoDemi Moore & Her Daughters Might Be Quadruplets at Oscars After-Social gathering
Travel2 years agoThe 8 finest international locations for digital nomads and distant working
Recepies2 years agoTake heed to The Nation on-line with Jamie Mackay: Zanda McDonald winners and hard occasions for sheep and beef