Local area

Cartmel is 2.5 miles northwest of Grange-over-Sands close to the River Eea. The village takes its name from the Cartmel Peninsula, and was historically known as Kirkby in Cartmel. The village is the location of the 12th-century Cartmel Priory, around which it initially grew. Situated in the historic county of Lancashire, since 1974 Cartmel has been part of the ceremonial county of Cumbria.

Whilst its history has been in its ecclesiastical and agricultural communities, Cartmel has since the mid-twentieth century developed as a tourist destination, and more recently a foodie destination and a 3 Michelin-starred restaurant a stones throw away, there are many other attractions in and around the village some of which are listed below

Holker Hall

Holker, a name given by the Norse invaders meaning ‘A rise in marshy ground’. For centuries, people have felt drawn here; the love of those who have lived here emanates from the architecture, the grounds and the landscape they created around it. Nestled between the hills of the Lake District and the sea marshes it rises from, Holker is, above all, a family home. 

Cartmel Races

For an unforgettable fun-filled day out, Cartmel Races is hard to beat. Perfect for family, friends and celebrations, the combination of thrilling jump racing and a relaxed party atmosphere brings thousands of people back year after year. 

Lake Windermere

Windermere is a large lake in Cumbria’s Lake District National Park, northwest England. It’s surrounded by mountain peaks and villages, including Bowness-on-Windermere, where The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction has modern displays on the children’s writer. In the north, trails lead to Orrest Head, a hill with views across the lake and the fells beyond.

Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway

At Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, travel back in time when you climb aboard our steam train. A distant memory of bygone years for some and a new experience for others.

Levens Hall

Marvel at this beautiful privately-owned house and gardens, home to the world’s oldest topiary gardens and centre of a thriving 9,500-acre agricultural estate which provides much of the produce for our cafe, Levens Kitchen.

Cartmel Priory

The priory was founded in 1190 by William Marshal, created 1st Earl of Pembroke, intended for a community of the Augustinian Canons regular and was dedicated to Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Michael.