Picturesque

Near Sawrey boasts a backdrop of Grizedale Forest and a panoramic view of iconic Lakeland fells. Coniston Old Man, Wetherlam & the Langdale Pikes all tell tales of neighbouring farming valleys and localised weather patterns. The traditional rural Lakeland landscape remains unspoilt – walled fields and intakes, woodland, forest, peaceful tarns and buildings of local stone.

Rural, country life

Rural life and true local folk remain integral to village life and the upkeep of the landscape. However, sustaining true lakeland character, local knowledge and the sense of community that brings is difficult as house prices continue to escalate, local families are forced out and holiday homes encroach.

Sadly, only two tenanted working farmsteads exist today between the two hamlets of Near and Far, a reflection of viability and policies of the changing times.

Beatrix Potter foresaw the issues many years ago, so much so, her life became devoted to farming and protecting the rural way of life. On her death she bequeathed Hill Top in Near Sawrey to the care of the National Trust with the instruction it would become a museum, consequently prospering the village and community. Whilst the farm at Hill Top under the eye of the National Trust would continue to remain tenanted and untouched.

Cultural Landscape

The hamlets of Sawrey boast a choice of pub, a selection of country hotels, B&Bs and cafés. The church, village hall and institute in Far Sawrey along with the playground in Near Sawrey are all maintained by the local community for the benefit of all.

The cultural landscape lends itself perfectly providing opportunities for exploring, sightseeing, photography, fishing, wild swimming, paddle boarding, walking, cycling, relaxing and unwinding. All accessible by a network of roads, lanes, footpaths, bridleways, cycle paths and even across Windermere Lake by car or passenger ferry.

Undeniably, Near Sawrey is at its best out of working hours and non-peak season. The hamlet becomes characteristic of the fictional Potter tales.