Explore William Wordsworth's home and life at this charming Lake District museum featuring Dove Cottage, gardens, and family-friendly activities.

Wordsworth Grasmere offers visitors an immersive experience into the life and work of William Wordsworth, one of England's greatest poets. The venue comprises Dove Cottage, the humble home where Wordsworth lived from 1799 and wrote many of his most celebrated works, alongside a thoughtfully curated museum that brings his story to life. Visitors can explore the authentic period cottage with its original furnishings and gardens, then learn more through engaging museum exhibits that showcase Wordsworth's manuscripts, personal belongings, and the literary context of his remarkable era. The venue is particularly well-suited for families, featuring a dedicated children's area with creative activities including nature poetry writing, quill pen experiences, and drawing materials. The on-site café provides a comfortable gathering space with additional play areas, toys, and crafting materials for younger visitors. The whole family can enjoy self-guided exploration balanced with knowledgeable staff guidance, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and interests. Special events and exhibitions, such as the Gothic-themed 'Ghost Story: Into the Gothic Imagination' exhibition, add variety to visits throughout the year. The venue's location in the scenic Lake District, combined with its spiritual atmosphere and connection to nature that inspired Wordsworth's poetry, creates a memorable day out. Annual ticket validity means families can return multiple times, and the venue welcomes schools, groups, and individuals seeking educational or cultural enrichment.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

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Richard

a month ago

Inspirational! Our tour guide was a poet. Poetry gives us an insight into the human nature and its relation to the natural world.

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Pete

a month ago

A lovely village. Beautiful historic buildings and the home of Wordsworth. Visit the museum and tour Dove Cottage. The Wordsworth family graves and Daffodil Garden. .

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Fine M

3 months ago

We had such a wonderful time here! Our visit was mostly inspired by watching The Other Bennet Sister, and our interest in William and Dorothy Wordsworth has grown even more since our visit. We enjoyed the exhibitions very much (shoutout to Pepper the dog, and the harp needle case!), had a delicious soup in the café, and found the cottage tour the highlight of our day. The woodlands and orchard behind the cottage are such a treat as well, especially on a sunny day like we had. Thanks so much to the lovely staff for being incredibly helpful and knowledgeable (and providing us with recommendations for swimming spots nearby!)

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Amit Das

3 months ago

A historic spot that’s definitely worth visiting if you’re in Grasmere. The only downside is the parking, which has a minimum stay of four hours. However, if you plan ahead, it’s a great place to leave your car and take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Grasmere.

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Tom (Bozz)

10 months ago

A fascinating visit to one of the main homes of William Wordsworth. With a booked tour, you can visit Dove Cottage and then onto the museum. They also have quite a nice cafe, with plenty of seating. We are not creatives or well versed in poetry, but the environment is good with all types of people. Creatives will particularly enjoy it

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026