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Great Urswick
Great and Little Urswick share a history and location within the Lake District which makes them opposite sides of the same coin. Or should that be “tarn”` -which is a local term for pond or lagoon. Water birds, swans and bream live in the waters as they have for centuries. Steeped in tradition, Great Urswick has many buildings of grey stone and pebble dash. The 17th Century General Burgoyne, one of Great Urswick’s great pubs has a scull that lives in a cupboard. Legend has it that under no circumstances is it to be removed.
Birkrigg Stone Circle is one of several prehistoric settlement sites in the surrounding countryside and is well worth a visit. St Mary and St Michael church, of the 13th and 14th centuries is another attraction in Great Urswick and it is believed that part of the church dates back to as early as 1600 years ago, which would make it the earliest bit of any church in the country.
Ancient Cross in Cumbria is also here in this same church! It is beautifully carved, with a panel of runic writing, and a carving of two figures at the bottom. This is an intriguing glimpse of our past, when the Roman Church strived to over-come the Celtic Church. Great Urswick is such an amazing little village!
Once you’ve had a good look at the historical and religious side of Great Urswick, why not head out for some fine local produce at one of the Lake District Coffee Shops or restaurants.
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