About Bassenfell Manor
Bassenfell Manor was built in 1848 by William Rathbone. Mr. Rathbone was a Member of Parliament and successful international trader. His business was based in Liverpool where a statue of him still resides in the campus of the University. The Rathbone family were devout Quakers, William Rathbone being a very close friend of Florence Nightingale who sent a message to his family following his death "England has lost one of its best son's". Since being sold by the Rathbone family around 1910, the Manor has served as a hotel, school and old peoples home.
The Manor was purchased by the Christian Outdoor Pursuits Trust (COPT) in 1983 and developed as a centre to promote the Christian Faith through involvement in character building training by means of outdoor pursuits. It is mainly used by church groups and Christian fellowships holding holiday weeks/weekends, Bible study weeks, summer youth camps, weekend house parties, walking weeks, adventure holidays and conferences.
During the whole of the summer holidays the centre is used by Christian Adventure Holidays to provide an adventure experience for young people aged 12-17 years. Activities include sailing, canoeing, walking, mountain biking, rock climbing and other outdoor pursuits, with Christian teaching in the mornings and evenings. A great time is had by all, and the young folk go away with plenty to think about, having learnt more about the Christian faith.
In 1998 we held our first walking holiday. This has now grown to 3 walking weeks a year, an art week, golf week and many other weeks which are fully catered and growing in popularity. Why not check out our full list of holidays and event weeks and come and join us. Enjoy not only the beauty of the Lake District but the peace and solitude in and around Bassenfell Manor.