cottages4you blog: inspiration for your cottage or villa holiday in UK, Ireland and Europe

Those who have holidays in the Lake District over the coming weeks may wish to take part in a scheme aiming to preserve the area”s woodlands.

Bassenthwaite Reflections has issued an appeal for volunteers to help plant oak saplings in Whinlatter”s Masmill Forest on October 31st, as well as November 11th and 18th.

Those wanting to offer their assistance have been advised to bring suitable clothing and a packed lunch and Rachel Graham, leader of the Heritage Lottery Fund-backed project, said that it will have a variety of benefits for the countryside.

“[The trees] stabilise soil … play host to a spectacular variety of wildlife, generate oxygen and store carbon,” she explained, adding “it is impossible to underestimate the value oak trees have for the environment.”

Last month, a similar call was issued, with the national park seeking people to help rid forest land close to Askham Bridge, Penrith of harmful rhododendrons.

Written by Ben Webster

A tourist attraction in the Lake District has become the new home for seven of Britain”s smallest rodents.

The Lakes Aquarium has taken in a family of harvest mice – each of which weighs less than a 2p coin.

They are part of the only mammal species in the world to have a tail capable of gripping and Dave Conway, of the centre stated that the creatures have been popular with people who have come to the aquarium while on holiday in the Lake District.

"They provide an immediate wow factor when visitors arrive," he remarked, adding that many people expect the genus to be "more akin to house mice" in size.

He stated that talks about the rodents” habits, habitats and survival techniques are being held at the centre, which is located near Newby Bridge.

Those considering visiting the Lakes Aquarium may wish to note that a day pass for adults costs £8.75.

Written by Ben Webster

A visitor to the Lake District has spoken of the challenge of ascending the third-highest peak in England.

Writing for Gulf Daily News, expatriate Aidan Payne said that he climbed the 950-metre (3,117 ft) high Helvellyn during a recent holiday in the Lake District.

Noting that the first part of the ascent had become very muddy due to heavy rains, Mr Payne – who did the route along with a number of other climbers – added that it became very difficult around the 700-metre mark, where going any further involved "scrambling over almost a mile of jagged rocks".

However, he added that the hard work was worth the effort, as he was treated to "stunning views across the Lake District" upon arrival at the summit.

Those considering booking a Lake District holiday cottage with the intention of climbing the range of peaks nearby there may also want to tackle Scafell Pike, which at 978 metres (3,210 ft) is the highest in England.

Written by Andrew Hill