The Lake District is blessed with beautiful scenery, steeped in literary history and culture, and there are plenty of things to do to take your other half on a short trip
Rookin House Activity Centre Surprise your other half with a horse riding break in the lakes this Valentine’s Day, where together you can enjoy its inspiring views and dramatic backdrop. Whether you are an experienced rider or need a little help, Rooking House has instructors on hand and equipment available. In addition, the centre offers activity packages for couples including: archery, go-karting, clay pigeon shooting and of course horse riding, so you can truly make a day of it. Rookin House Farm, Troutbeck, Ullswater, Penrith, Cumbria, Lake District, CA11 0SS www.rookinhouse.co.uk
Zeffirellis Cinema Homage to the great movie director Franco Zeffirelli, the Zeffirellis Cinema is where the entertainment and restaurant brand began. Invite your sweetheart to Zeffirellis and help the independent cinema support new and emerging talent in the industry. The cinema has 2 screens at their Compston Road site and 2 further screens at ‘Zeffs by the Park’, a second location just 100m away. Zeffirellis, Compston Rd, Ambleside LA22 9DJ www.zeffirellis.com
The Lakeside Railway Buy tickets to ride the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway in the charming Leven Valley to be found at the southern end of Windermere. The train line is perfectly placed if you want to visit several attractions in the area and combined tickets are available. For a perfect date this February the 14th, Come aboard the vintage steam-locomotive and stop at the Fell-Foot National Trust Park where you can have a spot of lunch and enjoy its remarkable views. Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8AL www.lakesiderailway.co.uk
The World of Beatrix Potter Celebrate the rich history of literature in the lakes by visiting The World of Beatrix Potter, as 2016 celebrates the 150th birthday of the beloved author. Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day trip suitable for all the family or a cute outing for just the two of you, take a trip to the centre and discover your younger years. The World of Beatrix Potter™, Attraction Crag Brow Bowness-on-Windermere Cumbria, LA23 3BX www.hop-skip-jump.com
Grasmere Gingerbread Victorian cook Sarah Nelson, invented Grasmere Gingerbread in 1854, since then it has become a true staple of the village with a reputation across the country. Today the business is ran by third-generation owners Joanne and Andrew Hunter, where everyday visitors are greeted with the inviting aroma of freshly baked Grasmere Gingerbread. Ginger is held highly as an aphrodisiac and is said to have once been used in love potions and spells, but if nothing else take trip to the store and try some authentic Grasmere Gingerbread. Grasmere Gingerbread, Church Cottage, Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SW www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk
Rydal Mount & Gardens Home to renowned poet and Britain’s Poet Laureate until his death in 1950, William Wordsworth’s Lakeland home is open to visitors throughout the year. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and view the study where Wordsworth created many of his most famous works. Nearby, you will find Dora’s Field, dedicated to his daughter and decorated with ambient daffodils; it is now popular for peaceful walks. Rydal Mount, Ambleside, Lake District, LA22 9LU www.rydalmount.co.uk
