DOVE COTTAGE

Dove Cottage is situated in Grasmere and is owned by the Wordsworth Trust and as been kept as it was during Wordsworth time. Next to the house is a barn which as been converted into a museum telling the story of the poet and his circle, their life and their work. You can also purchase from the shop and eat in the restaurant opposite the house.

In December 1799 William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy moved to a small cottage at Town End [Dove Cottage], Grasmere and lived here for eight [8] years. The Wordsworth never knew it as Dove Cottage. Their address was simply was known as Town End. The cottage was at some stage previously been an inn called The Dove and Olive Branch and this is where its present name Dove Cottage has come from.

It was here that he produced some of his best works and also Dorothy wrote her Grasmere Journal [1800-1803] but also acted as his secretary and beloved companion.

In 1802 when William got married he brought his wife Mary to live here and three [3] of his children were born here, Dorothy continued to live in the same dwelling. When Mary was expecting their fourth child, the cottage was becoming too small, they then moved first to Allan Bank and the Vicarage in Grasmere [both are privately owned] before moving to his last home at Rydal Mount.

Near the cottage is the former schoolroom where he taught, and Wordsworth, his wife and sister and other members of the family are buried in the churchyard.

It is advisable to contact Dove Cottage prior to your visit if there is something specific you wish to see or any alterations have been made to the Opening times and the attraction itself. Disclaimer

+44 [0] 15394 35544

+44 [0] 15394 35748