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Cartmel can be found in the south of Cumbria on the banks of the river Eea and is only a short drive away from Grange-over-Sands. To the north is Lake Windermere, Coniston and Hawkshead. Cartmel is one the oldest villages in south Lakeland with history to match. The 12th Century Priory is the focal point.
Over 800 years old Cartmel Priory [St. Mary and St. Michael] is one the finest ecclesiastical buildings to be found in the north of England and still plays a major part in the community, with concerts and other events. Away from the Priory you will find cobbled pavements, ancient streets with old buildings with the market Square being in the centre of the village. The Gatehouse faces the square [view picture below].
The Gatehouse was built around 1340 and was the main entrance into the Priory grounds which leads into Cavendish Street where once the blacksmith worked. Above the Gatehouse was the court room where drunks and criminals would appear. On Cavendish Street, outside the inn is a mounting block used by the riders to mount their houses. Returning back to Market Square you will see the Market Cross (without the cross) where traders would sell their goods. Close to the cross is the water pump and stone slaps which is where they used to display and sell fish. The Market Square, also known as "Market Cross and Fish Slabs" by the locals, was a reminder to deal fairly in transactions conducted between themselves.
The bridge over the river Eea was a county bridge and was the responsibility of the county council. You will notice the markings C.C which depicted it was county council.
Within the village you will discover a number of inns, restaurants, cafes and shops. Local produce and Lakeland products can be purchased from a number of shops along with local artists' work being displayed in the galleries. These can also be purchased. Helen Bradley, an acclaimed artist made Cartmel her home.
Fine accommodation can be found to suit every taste, and ranges from hotels, guesthouses and self catering facilities to caravan and camping.
Many outdoor activities can be found, ranging from fishing, horse riding and golf. The area is also popular with walkers, where you will discover fine views from around the area. Close-by is Morecambe Bay with its sands and a number of wildfowl and birds to be spotted.
Cartmel races are held every Spring Bank and August Bank Holidays weekends in the park on the Cartmel Racecourse and attracts many people from all over. The agricultural show also takes place in early August.
More information can be found by contact Grange-over-Sands Tourist Information Centre Click Here.
Clicking on the various Level Maps below will show different map views of Cartmel and District. Maps Courtesy of Multi Map.
County Level Map
Town Level Map
Street Level Map