Thornthwaite, is a quiet popular village on the edge of Whinlatter Forest, with wonderful views across the valley and Bassenthwaite Lake towards Skiddaw. In spring the roads in the village are lined with daffodils and many lambs occupy the surrounding fields. It is easily accessible and lies just three miles to the the west of Keswick.

Thornthwaite is served by the X4/X5 - Workington/Cockermouth/Keswick/Penrith bus. Click here for bus timetables.

The village features on the C2C route, so a great base for cyclists. For both walkers and cyclists, Thornthwaite has direct tracks and paths linking with Whinlatter Forest and the fells beyond. A popular footpath from the centre of the village leads up beside the waters of Comb Beck, to the heart of the forest. There are direct walks from Powter How to Bassenthwaite Lake, an elevated route to Braithwaite and a path across the valley to Dodd and Skiddaw. Wainwright's "North Western" Fells are on your doorstep including such favourites as Catbells and Grisedale Pike. 

Thornthwaite Galleries is a few hundred yards from the cottage and is supported by over 140 local artists exhibiting paintings, wood turning, jewellery, pottery, textiles. It has an excellent teashop - a great place to enjoy home made cakes, scones and vegetarian/vegan lunches and snacks on the doorstep. 

St Mary's church, built of local Skiddaw slate is open every day and includes a peaceful memorial garden.

Comb Beck runs down the side of Thornthwaite, and can be heard from Ridgeway's garden. 

Overlooking the village is the well known landmark of 'The Bishop of Barf', a whitewashed rock outcrop on the side of Barf. Legend has it this striking landmark is a monument marking an 18th century event, where the drunken Bishop of Londonderry fell to his death climbing the hillside on his pack horse to fulfil a bet with the landlord of the local inn.