Paths and Pages: Easedale

Walking in the footsteps of Dorothy Wordsworth

Join us for a day of walking, reading and time to slow down in Grasmere and the Easedale Valley.

We will meet at 9.30am at Sam Read’s in Grasmere, with some privtate time to browse before they open to the public, then we will set off together for a leisurely walk into Easedale, towards Sour Milk Gill. There is a lovely connection with Dorothy Wordsworth here. On this date in 1801, Dorothy wrote simply: “We walked into Easedale.” As we walk, we will share a few of Dorothy’s words and have time to pause, take in the landscape and enjoy being outdoors.

After our walk, we will head to Tweedies, where we have the lounge to ourselves for the afternoon. We will have a light lunch of soup, to warm us after our walk, before settling in for an uninterrupted hour of reading by the fire. After a pause for conversation, tea/coffee and homemade cake, there will be another quiet reading session before we finish at 4pm.

There are no reading lists, no discussion questions and no pressure to talk about what you are reading. Just bring your current book, or the one you have been meaning to start, and enjoy a day with plenty of uninterrupted time to read.

You can come with a friend or come on your own. Our Gatherings are relaxed and welcoming and many of our guests come by themselves.

Things to know

The walk is approximately 3 miles and includes public footpaths, uneven ground, steps and one steady uphill section. Please get in touch before booking if you would like to discuss the suitability of the walk for you.
The walk will be at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to pause along the way. You should be comfortable walking the full route over uneven ground and an incline.
Places are limited to keep the Gathering relaxed and intimate.
Soup, tea/coffee and homemade cake are included in your ticket. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking.
The Gathering will go ahead in most weather conditions, so please come prepared for the forecast and wear suitable footwear.
We will be taking photographs and short videos to share future Gatherings and Retreats across our website, newsletter and social media. If you would prefer not to appear in any photographs or videos, simply let us know when you arrive.
Please read our Gatherings Terms and Conditions before booking: wordsandwater.co.uk/gathering-terms

We look forward to spending the day with you.