'Keswick - Brandlehow Wood'

Derwentwater, Keswick.

Location : Keswick / Grange Village
Map - Ordnance Survey - NY 250200

The National Trust was created in 1896, largely through the efforts of Canon Rawnsley, vicar of Crosthwaite near Keswick. In 1902 the Brandlehow estate on the west shore of Derwentwater, 108 acres of pasture and woodland at the foot of Catbells, came on the market. Rawnsley launched an appeal, and enough money was raised - the National Trust's first purchase.

The opening ceremony was performed by HRH Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria, on 6 October 1902, a memorable day for the work of the National Trust in the Lake District. Through the efforts of Rawnsley and the National Trust, much of Borrowdale was preserved from development. After the ceremony, Princess Louise and the three National Trust founders each planted an oak tree. These trees and the commemorative stone may be seen at Grid Ref 249204

When King Edward VII died in 1910, his sister Princess Louise wanted to make a gift in memory of the King. Grange Fell was purchased for the National Trust, which included the Bowder Stone, and a memorial stone was placed on the fell.

Related Links :

• Wikipedia - Princess Louise (Duchess_of_Argyll)