Crosthwaite: Mill, Church and Walking Trails

Crosthwaite combines traces of history with clearly identified walking features and recurring events. For planning your trip, these offer different kinds of orientation: the mill and church provide historical reference points, the walking descriptions name starting points or routes, and local events help you choose a time for your visit. Depending on what interests you about a stay, you can consider these topics separately.

Mill, Church and Local History

Crosthwaite's water-powered corn mill was first mentioned in the 13th century; the present building probably dates from the 18th century. The first date refers to its first mention, while the probable dating refers to the present building. The millstones of Crosthwaite Mill can be seen in the car park.

The first documented mention of St Mary's Church is associated with a land grant from the 12th century. An early octagonal limestone font can still be seen at the entrance. A service is held at St Mary's every Sunday. The reference to the 12th century and the weekly service represent two different perspectives on time: historical records and a recurring event.

The Punch Bowl Inn and Restaurant in Crosthwaite dates from 1829 and was also used as a blacksmith's workshop at the time. This former use adds another point of reference to the village's history, alongside the mill and church.

Walking Trails and Orientation

The local walking guide names the crossroads at Crosthwaite Green as the starting point for all the walks it describes.

The “To Find the Source of the Gilpin” walking trail begins by crossing a clapper bridge, which leads from Crook Road into Jubilee Wood. The “Lost Lanes and Cart Tracks” walking trail is less than 6 miles long and runs south of Crosthwaite along remote lanes and cart tracks, as well as around the northern part of Whitbarrow. The descriptions emphasize different things: the bridge crossing is a distinctive starting point for the first, while the second focuses on its length and route.

Jubilee Wood, Events and Seasons

In Jubilee Wood, a bench beside the developing woodland stands beneath the Queen’s Oak. The named tree and the bench are specific landmarks in this woodland area.

The Crosthwaite Show is held annually at the Argles Memorial Hall in Crosthwaite. The Crosthwaite Exchange is also held at Argles Memorial Hall in the village centre and welcomes visitors to the valley. If the show is the reason for your trip, check the specific event date in advance.

The Lyth Valley is known for its damson orchards, which are at their most beautiful in April. This is a different kind of time reference from the annual Crosthwaite Show: the special period for the orchards is in April, while for the show you should take the event date into account.

Discover more destinations: Newby Bridge, Killington, Westward, Bampton, Cartmel, Crook, Near Sawrey, Alston

For the broader travel overview: Cumbria.