Lake District Activities & Experiences from Armathwaite Hall

Endless ADVENTURES

LAKE DISTRICT ACTIVITIES AT

Estate ACTIVITIES

ARCHERY

Looking to draw your bow and test your skill? Archery in the Lake District is a calming yet challenging activity. If it has always been your dream to become an Olympic archery champion, then the first place to start is learning how to shoot the traditional Re Curve bow.

This ancient sport is still great fun for all abilities and does not require strength, but rather style, technique and coordination. Archery was originally a sport of hunting and warfare, but can now be enjoyed as a recreational activity. Archery is great as a family or group activity and is an enjoyable and fulfilling sport for people with disabilities.

HISTORY

Archery is one of the world’s oldest arts. It can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, where archery was used for hunting and warfare in 3,000BC. From here, the practice spread to China, Japan, Europe and the Middle East.

The Assyrians and Parthians mastered archery from horseback, but perhaps the most famous development in archery came from Britain. English longbows became a staple of warfare, used to win key battles. In fact, there is technically still a law in effect requiring every man of adult age to practice archery on a Sunday! The invention of gunpowder meant that archery became more of a sport than a method of warfare, and it has remained that way ever since.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Lessons from a qualified instructor

CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING

A special day requires a special place... Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa is set in one of the most stunning locations, with breathtaking views overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and the Skiddaw Mountains. It is without doubt the perfect venue for your Lake District wedding.

From the delicate scents and scenery of a budding spring to the glory of a Lakeland summer, the rich auburns and golds of autumn to the majesty of snow-capped winter fells and mountains.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

If you are looking for photography courses in the Lake District, why not head down to Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa for a day or half-day session that will hone your camera skills?

Book now and enjoy a day or half day with your camera under the guidance of a professional photographer, who will show you how to use all the features of your camera, how to get the best composition, good use of light and make the most of the scene. Our photographer will also show you some processing tips using Photoshop to make that photograph something extra special.

TENNIS

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Private lessons are a great way to work on specific aspects of your game and we have a great LTA Level 2 to cater to both the complete beginner and those playing advanced club tennis. You can either choose an individual lesson or opt for a private session for two, three or four people together.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Our professional photographer Carmen Norman ARPS CPAGB

Experienced Instructor Tennis racquets and balls

Wildlife EXPERIENCES

BIRDS OF PREY

See soaring birds that will amaze and enthral you with our birds of prey Lake District experience. Take a two-minute walk across Deer Park or a short drive to the Wildlife Park and meet our keeper. After enjoying a flying display on the park your bird of prey experience will begin.

Our falconer will teach you how to recall and hold the birds, starting with an owl. Following this, we move outside and step it up a gear with one of our free flying hawks who will fly from

a tree to your gloved hand. Once you feel a little more confident, hold and fly one of our magnificent eagles or vultures. With ample opportunity for photos, a camera is essential!

Following the experience, take time to explore the Wildlife Park, watch the demonstrations and treat yourself to a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of cake.

ALPACA WALKING

Experience Alpaca walking in the Lake District when you visit Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa. Take a delightful twominute walk across Deer Park or a short drive to the Wildlife Park and meet our keeper, who will introduce you to our alpaca brothers Buzz, Hugo, Hector and Herbie.

Alpacas are friendly and inquisitive animals and just like us they enjoy fresh air and exercise. Get a chance to learn their individual personalities by leading your own alpaca on a walk around Armathwaite Hall Estate, taking in the stunning backdrop of the Lake District mountains. A camera is essential!

Alpacas are gentle, extremely cute creatures that originated in South America and were first domesticated over 6,000 years ago. They were first brought to the UK in zoos, although Queen Victoria owned two alpacas of her own. Their fur is a popular fibre for clothing, so demand for alpacas soared in the UK and now there are hundreds up and down the country.

Alpacas are very intuitive animals, and have even been used as therapy animals in Australia. They emit a distinct humming noise when they are curious or content, so expect to hear their hum when out on a walk!

ULTIMATE ANIMAL EXPERIENCE

This is an exciting opportunity to get up close to some of the park’s favourite residents for the ultimate animal experience right here in the Lake District.

The Tapirs love to be groomed and under the guidance of our experienced keepers you can be involved in their favourite part of the day. Once you have spent some time with the tapirs, help to prepare daily enrichments for the meerkats

before entering their world to become part of the mob. Then, on to the enigmatic ring tailed lemur troop where you will offer them a meal prepared by your own fair hands! Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture your experience.

Following the experience, take time to explore the Wildlife Park, watch the demonstrations and treat yourself to a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of cake.

Unique ACTIVITIES

WILD SWIMMING

For those looking for something refreshing in every sense, Wild Swimming is a ‘must try’ activity here on the Armathwaite Hall Estate. Situated just a short stroll down from the hotel, ‘Wild Swimmers’ are met at the foot of Bassenthwaite Lake by their instructor for a half-day session in the wild and open waters.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE WILD SWIMMING HALF DAY PACKAGE

• Introduction to open and cold water swimming including safety, wetsuit fit (fit required) and a brief history about the local area.

• A maiden swim in Bassenthwaite Lake accompanied by your instructor to enjoy the experience of being in the water and the incredible views from the lake.

• After all swims, you can relax and warm up with a warm drink and sweet treat. You will learn about finding your own swimming spots in the mountains and staying safe when you are swimming on your own.

• All you need to bring is a swimsuit, towel and warm clothes for afterwards.

This experience is perfect for first-time swimmers, swimmers looking to explore the pools and lakes of The Lake District, or anyone looking for a really special experience in the amazing water of the biggest National Park in England.

A packed lunch can be purchased from the hotel and will be ready for you if it is ordered at least 24 hours before your activity.

FOREST BATHING EXPERIENCE

A walk through an archway of trees encourages guests to leave their worries behind and embark on a journey of the senses like no other.

The session begins with meditation, during which guests can ease their minds and imagine growing their own roots to become part of the calming forest. Throughout the experience, participants will be guided through an exploration of taste, sense, movement and slowing down. The guides will encourage participants to focus on the art of reflection, immersing and connecting themselves more deeply with nature.

Patterns and weather will be explored and then thoughts and feelings shared through sharing circles. This practice based on ancient values where there is no hierarchy nor judgement and leaves each person open to new thoughts and prospects.

Participants will see how nature becomes a metaphor for change. Emerging from the forest into the open space and light, there is a shifting of energy and appreciation. The session closes with a tea ceremony where guests can reflect and enjoy their new lighter sense of wellbeing.

Lakeland ACTIVITIES

FELL WALKING

The spectacular mountains (fells) are, undoubtedly, one of the Lake District’s biggest attractions, affording great views from their summits and offering a mixture of challenges from a gentle stroll to rock scrambling. Enjoy our Lake District guided walks, where a Mountain Leader will safely guide you up some of our most enjoyable fells.

At Armathwaite Hall, we have picked out some of our favourite fell walks, including those away from the main tourist hubs that tend to be popular with the local residents. Some are easy, some are a challenge; whilst many are suitable for beginners, all require a good level of fitness. Take a look at our favourites. If you would like to try an alternative, please let us know at the time of booking.

Alternatively, you can hire a qualified walking guide to discover popular routes with stunning vistas depending on your activity level.

A packed lunch can be purchased from the hotel and will be ready for you if it is ordered at least 24 hours before your activity.

Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4RE Hotel Tel: 017687 76551

Wedding Co-ordinator Tel: 017687 88911

reservations@armathwaite-hall.com www.armathwaite-hall.com