Martindale facts for kids

Martindale is a small, peaceful village and a civil parish in the beautiful Cumbria region of England. It is located within the Eden district. In 2001, only 49 people called Martindale home, making it a very quiet and close-knit community. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills and clear lakes.

What is a Civil Parish?

A civil parish is a local government area in England. It is the smallest unit of local government. Think of it as a small neighborhood or community. People in a civil parish often work together on local issues. They might have a parish council. This council helps manage things like local paths or community events.

Where is Martindale Located?

Martindale is found in the Lake District National Park. This park is famous for its lakes, mountains, and forests. The village sits near Ullswater, which is the second-largest lake in the Lake District. Being inside a national park means the area is protected. This helps keep its natural beauty safe for everyone to enjoy.

Exploring the Martindale Valley

The village is nestled in a valley. This valley is often called the Martindale Valley. It is a great place for outdoor activities. Many people visit to go hiking or walking. The landscape is perfect for exploring nature. You might see different kinds of wildlife here.

What is Cumbria Like?

Cumbria is a large county in northwest England. It is well-known for its amazing scenery. The county includes the entire Lake District National Park. This makes Cumbria a popular place for tourists. It has many historic towns and villages. The landscape ranges from high mountains to coastal areas.

The Eden District

Martindale is part of the Eden district within Cumbria. The Eden district is named after the River Eden. This river flows through much of the area. The district is mostly rural. It has many farms and small communities. It is a quiet and scenic part of England.

History of Martindale

Martindale has a long history. Like many villages in Cumbria, it has been settled for centuries. Its remote location meant it developed slowly. Life in the past was often focused on farming. People lived off the land. The village has kept much of its traditional charm.

Martindale's Churches

The village has two notable churches. One is the Old Church, dedicated to Saint Martin. It is a very old building. It shows how people worshipped many years ago. The other is the New Church, also dedicated to Saint Martin. It was built later. Both churches are important parts of the village's heritage. They tell a story of faith and community over time.

The Old Church of St Martin

The Old Church is a special place. It dates back to the 16th century. Some parts might be even older. It has a simple design. This reflects the quiet life of the villagers. It is a popular spot for visitors. They come to see its historic architecture. It feels like stepping back in time.

The New Church of St Martin

The New Church was built in 1880. It is larger than the Old Church. It was built to serve the growing community. It has more modern features. Both churches stand as landmarks in the valley. They show the village's continuous history.

Wildlife in Martindale

Martindale is a fantastic place for wildlife. The valley is home to many animals. It is especially known for its red deer. These are the largest land mammals in the UK. They roam freely in the hills. Seeing them is a special experience.

Red Deer of Martindale

The red deer herd in Martindale is one of the oldest in England. They have lived here for hundreds of years. The deer are often seen grazing in the fields. They also hide in the woodlands. Visitors often try to spot them. It is important to watch them from a distance. This keeps both people and deer safe.

Other Animals You Might See

Besides red deer, you can find other animals. These include roe deer and badgers. Many types of birds also live here. You might see buzzards flying overhead. The clean rivers support fish. The diverse habitats make Martindale a rich place for nature.

Activities in Martindale

Martindale is a great spot for outdoor adventures. Its location in the Lake District offers many activities.

Hiking and Walking Trails

There are many paths for walking. You can take easy strolls. Or you can try more challenging hikes. Popular routes lead up to nearby fells. These are hills or mountains. From the top, you get amazing views. You can see Ullswater and the surrounding valleys.

Popular Walking Routes

One famous walk is to Place Fell. This mountain offers stunning views. Another path follows the valley floor. It is an easier walk. It lets you enjoy the peaceful scenery. Always be prepared for the weather. Wear good walking shoes.

Boating on Ullswater

Ullswater is very close to Martindale. It is a large, beautiful lake. You can enjoy boating here. There are boat trips available. You can also rent small boats. This is a fun way to see the lake. It offers different views of the landscape.

Exploring the Lake by Steamer

The Ullswater 'Steamers' are famous. These are historic passenger boats. They travel up and down the lake. You can hop on and off at different piers. This is a relaxing way to see the area. It connects Martindale to other lakeside villages.

Martindale Today

Today, Martindale remains a quiet village. It attracts people who love nature. It is a place to escape busy city life. The community is small but welcoming. It is a perfect example of a traditional English village.

Protecting the Environment

Because Martindale is in a national park, its environment is protected. Rules help keep the area beautiful. This includes protecting wildlife. It also means keeping the landscape natural. Visitors are asked to respect the rules. This helps preserve Martindale for future generations.