Tucked into the ridiculously luscious Lake District, this paper-making hub traces six generations. Here ‘James Cropper’ is all about preserving paper arts and heritage.
They make traditional papers – for printing on, to paint on, the kind you see in bright yolk-yellow Selfridges department store carrier bags. They also make bespoke paper, choosing the texture, fibre blend and shade.
Walks
There are a lot of interesting and exciting walks in Burneside. You can explore many hiking areas, ruins, waterfalls, lakes, woodlands, and castles.
Start at Burneside station, now a halt rather than a bustling goods yard. Walk past St Oswald’s church and, beside a lane, take a hedged path, leaving the church to your left.
Ignore a signposted left turn and continue on the path, keeping the tarmac road to your right. Ignore a stile and follow the track to the large dam of Potter Tarn.
Waterfalls
A waterfall can be a wonderful sight to see and one that adds great beauty to a hike. There are many great waterfall hikes that can be found around the region.
A great example is the Ozone Falls State Natural Area. This stunning waterfall hurtles 110 feet down an imposing gorge.
Another great waterfall is the Glen Burney Falls, which can be found along the Glen Burney Trail. This awesome waterfall is a must-see for any hiking enthusiast!
Lakes
Whether you want to put your fitness to the test on one of the more difficult hiking trails or take it easy with a pleasant stroll around the lakes, there are lots of walking options in Burneside. The village also has some great rivers and streams.
The Anderson Group has plans to turn the lake site into a nature reserve and country park. But until that happens, it has installed ‘Private – Keep Out’ signs to reduce anti-social behaviour and trespassing.
Woodlands
Burneside is home to a number of beautiful woodlands that are perfect for exploring on a scenic hike. Some of the most popular ones include Craggy Wood, Hebblethwaite Hall Gill, and Taylorgill Force.
Mark Cropper is investing in traditional paper making and has created a mill that makes the kind of papers used by impressive archival institutions and artists. He also creates bespoke papers, choosing the texture and fibre blend to suit.
Some of the best hills and hiking areas near Burneside are Cartmel Fell, White Pike (Seathwaite), and The Knott. There are also a few great towns nearby, including Bowness-on-Windermere and Penrith.
Caves
Burneside has a wide range of caves for visitors to explore. Many of the caves are open to spelunkers and cavers, while others offer a more leisurely guided walking tour.
Explore this disused Lakeland green slate quarry, riddled with tunnels including the Cathedral Cave – a high-roof cave that’s accessible to those who pass the ‘squeeze test’. Archaeological finds include pottery, jewellery and burials, while signs warn of a ‘grim’ past for those who enter.
For a more adventurous trip, book a guide to tackle Alum Pot – a narrow tidal cavern that’s not for the faint-hearted.
Bluebell Woods
It is hard not to be awed by the vast carpets of bluebells that bloom across the woods in spring. However, you should remember that they are wildflowers and not to be trampled. You should also respect other visitors and stay on the paths so that they can enjoy them too.
Skelghyll Woods in Ambleside is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of these flowers in the Lake District. This inspiring ancient woodland is home to some of the tallest trees in England and has a charming ‘Champion Tree trail’ to explore.
Nature Reserves
Finglandrigg Wood NNR is a great place to explore for wildflowers including the rare spring gentian. It is also home to one of the largest populations of eyebright in the UK. The reserve is also important for natterjack toads.
The site is best visited on foot. Two trails are available, one of which is suitable for wheelchair users. A picnic bench is provided. Ticks are present on the site and Lyme disease is a risk so visitors should take precautions.
Interesting Airports
Located in the heart of Lake District, Burneside is a small village with lots of things to see and do. The area offers some great waterfalls, rivers and streams, lakes, woodlands, caves, and bluebell woods.
There are several train services between Manchester Airport and Burneside. Avanti West Coast, Abellio Greater Anglia, and Northern Rail all run services. Some trains offer first class tickets, which provide more space and amenities than standard class.
