Threlkeld & Scales
About Threlkeld
History from hunting to mining and back
Blencathra, known locally as Saddleback, overlooks this traditional and pretty village. There are also views towards Clough Head and the Helvellyn range. Threlkeld 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 in the mines and at the quarry there is a 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 pictorial history of Threlkeld 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 Lakeland pack that traditionally hunts on foot rather than on horseback and claims that its dogs are descended from those used by John Peel of song fame. The Threlkeld sheepdog trials are a highlight of the year and feature foxhound and terrier shows, as well as hound training.
All of these rural pursuits are, one presumes, finding life tougher these days.
Next Stop Scales
After Threlkeld there is a short section along a car-free country road, then a cycle path alongside the A66 until Scales, before you go along a delightful gated lane to Mungrisdale. Don't forget to look up to admire Blencathra on your left and the Helvellyn range to the right.
Accommodation
| Horse & Farrier Inn, Threlkeld, nr Kewick, CA12 4SQ | |
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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 recommendations include an AA two rosette accreditation. There is now a bigger bike storage area, increased drying facilities plus a cottage for rental next door. |
Run by: Ian Court 
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Tel : 017687 79688 |
Rooms : 2S, 6D, 1T |
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Have you stayed here? Let us know! |
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| Horse & Farrier Guest House, Threlkeld, nr Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4SQ | |
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Due to the enormous popularity of the Horse & Farrier Ian recently purchased additional accommodation to the Inn. The Horse & Farrier Guest House is opposite the pub's rear car park just a few seconds walk from the Inn and offers an additional four rooms. All the main services are offered in the Inn, such as breakfast, lunch and dinner. All the Horse & Farrier special offers apply to the guest house and all rooms offer tea & coffee making facilities, TV /DVD and hair dryers. There is a television lounge with DVD, reading books and a selection of board games. Additional facilities include: ironing board, drying room, bike lock up and newspapers. Large parties wishing to hire the facility for more than five days will get special rates. |
Run by: Ian Court 
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Tel : 017687 79688 |
Rooms : 3T/D, 1D |
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Have you stayed here? Let us know! |
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| The Hollies, Threlkeld, nr Keswick, CA12 4RX | |
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Situated in the centre of Threlkeld village directly on the C2C, fine stone-built house in with spectacular views to both front and rear. Five minutes level walk to two pubs, both of which serve meals. Ample off road parking. Secure bike storage. Drying room. Hot, powerful showers. Four twin or double en-suite rooms. Hearty breakfast and a very warm welcome from your hosts, Sue and Andy. |
Run by: Sue & Andy Judge 
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Tel : 017687 79216 or 07887 611127 |
Rooms : 4T/D |
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Have you stayed here? Let us know! |
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