A life's work
A 250-year legacy
A year of celebration
Photo: Stephen Allen © Cumbria Rural Choirs
Photo: Jonathan McMeekin © National Trust
Photo: Alex Telfer © National Trust
Photo: © Wordsworth Trust
Photo: © Simon Mooney
Photo: © National Trust
Photo: Alex Telfer © National Trust
Photo: Val Corbett © National Trust
Photo: Matt Heath © Rydal Mount
Photo: Tim West © English Lake Tours
Photo: Mrs L. Stevens © Cumbria Festival Chorus
Photo: Tim West © English Lake Tours
Photo: Tim West © English Lake Tours
Photo: Matt Heath © Rydal Mount
7th April 2020 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of the poet William Wordsworth (1770 – 1850). Wordsworth was one of the greatest and most representative poets of the age of Romanticism, the revolutionary period whose ideas and values – democracy, the rights of the individual, our relationship with nature, the power of the human mind – define the modern world.
This significant anniversary — 2020 — is being marked nation-wide and internationally with a year-long celebration of the poet, his life’s work, legacy and continuing relevance.
The year's events are brought together on this website. If you would like to have your event added, you can do so here.
Coronovirus Update
Due to disruption caused by the Coronavirus outbreak, please contact event organisers directly to check if events are going ahead or whether venues are open.
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Places and Houses
Aira Force, Ullswater
An inspiration to writers and artists for centuries, Aira Force is a showcase for the power and beauty of nature.
Allan Bank, Grasmere
Allan Bank was a home to poets and conservationists who sought to protect the celebrated vale of Grasmere.
All Saints Church, Cockermouth
All Saints Church, is an iconic building, the ancient parish church of the town, which can be seen for miles around.
Coleridge Cottage, Nether Stowey
Home of Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge for three years. During this time Coleridge wrote some of his finest works.
Dove Cottage, Grasmere
Home to William Wordsworth and his family from 1799-1808. Here, Wordsworth wrote some of his best-loved poetry.
Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
Hawkshead Grammar School, now a museum, looks much as it did as when Wordsworth attended as a boy.
Lowther Castle, Penrith
Castle ruins, gardens, adventure playground, vivid historical exhibition, café, shop, free parking. Dogs welcome. Stunning & original venue.
Rydal Mount, Ambleside
William Wordsworth’s home from 1813 until his death in 1850, Rydal Mount gives a powerful insight into the latter half of his life.
St. Mary's Church, Rydal
St Mary's, Rydal was built by Lady le Fleming of Rydal Hall in 1824. William Wordsworth was a churchwarden here around 10 years later.
St. Oswald's Church, Grasmere
St Oswald's is a mediaeval church on a 7th century site - a sacred place of prayer and celebration.
Wordsworth House and Garden, Cockermouth
Step back to the 1770s at Wordsworth House and Garden, birthplace of William and his sister Dorothy.
