Blencathra, known locally as Saddleback, overlooks this traditional and pretty Cumbrian village. There are also views towards Clough Head and the Helvellyn range. Threkeld is, I gather, Norse for 'the spring of the thrall' - thrall being a bonded servant. Zinc, lead and granite were mined during the last century until the last of the granite miners hung up their shovels and picks in the mid-80s. At one time more than a hundred men were employed. At the quarry there is a mining museum with an impressive mineral collection, mining artefacts and touching reminders of how things used to be. A table top relief map of the Lake District and a pictoral history of Threkeld are also on display. There was once a TB isolation hospital which is now a field centre for biologists and geographers. Since the Dark Ages and the days of Sir Lancelot de Threlkeld, hunting has been an integral part of local life; this is the home of the Blencathra Hunt, the famous Lakeland pack that hunts on foot rather than horseback. The famous Threkeld sheepdog trials feature foxhound and terrier shows, and hound training. All of which, one presumes, has come to a sad end this year.

6. Threlkeld		Back to
Ian Court		Horse & Farrier Inn, Threlkeld, nr Kewick, CA12 4SQ
T		017687 79688
W		www.horseandfarrier.com
E		enquiries@horseandfarrier.com
Rooms		2S, 6D, 1T
B&B		£35
EM		£6.95-£15
PL		£5
AA listed		AA Hotel, Restaurant & Pub Guides

The Horse & Farrier enjoys an idyllic location in the centre of the picturesque village of Threlkeld, just four miles east of Keswick. Built in 1688 at the foot of Blencathra, with stunning views. 'Cask Marque' Real Ales and extensive wine list are served in the bar, restaurant or beer garden. Excellent reputation for good food, using seasonal local produce always freshly prepared. Numerous reccommendations include an AA two rosette accreditation.

John & Margaret Fleet		The Hollies, Threlkeld, nr Keswick, CA12 4RX
T		017687 79216 or 07887 611127
W		www.theholliesinlakeland.co.uk
E		info@theholliesinlakeland.co.uk
Rooms		4T/D
B&B		£27
PL		£3.50

Fine stone-built house with spectacular views to front and rear. John & Margaret have been in the hotel business for 30 years so know how to look after you. Ample parking. Great breakfast. Bathrooms refurbished plus new de-luxe room Website Email info@theholliesinlakeland.co.uk Rooms 4T/D B&B £27 Packed Lunch £3.50 Meals no - pubs and food nearby AA 4 diamonds Fine stone-built house with spectacular views to front and rear. John & Margaret have been in the hotel business for 30 years so know how to look after you. Ample parking. Great breakfast.