The Lake District is full of wonderful traditions all time of the year; however, Cumbrian Christmas traditions are just magical, just read and see!
Christmas with the Wordsworths
Mr. Crabb was a very welcomed guest at the Wordsworth’s home, spending Christmas day with all the family, having lunch at one; just how they liked it.
His stay was full of walks (both sunny and wet)together with lots of food made by the wonderful Mary Wordsworth!
It was clear that Henry was a dear guest at the Wordsworth household and he took great pleasure in knowing he was welcome for the festive season. This little visit became a little tradition for the Wordsworths, giving them something to always look forward to at Christmas!
Rum Butter!
The difference between the two is that the Westmorland melts the butter before blending, however the Cumberland blend without melting.
It is believed that Cumberland rum butter originally was created by local smugglers in the 18th Century. The story begins on one misty morning when the tide was low, the smuggler’s ship called Sea With unloaded their goods near the village of Parton. It was soon recognised that they had been watched by the customs men. Hurrying into a cave, the tide also came in submerging the cave which left the customs men presuming that the men had been submerged and therefore died. After days of guarding, just to be safe, the men withdrew their stance. However, the smugglers were indeed safe as they used the three edible ingredients from their goods, rum, butter, and sugar mixed forming a paste, which created the rum butter we know today!
Rum butter is traditionally served on cream crackers, toast, scones, fresh bread, and teacakes. It is also a great alternative for Brandy butter on a Christmas pudding.
Rum Butter Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1lb of soft brown sugar
- 1/2lb of butter
- Slosh of dark rum (Jefferson’s for preference)
- Pinch of spices: cinnamon of nutmeg (or both)
Recipe:
- Put the butter in a heat-proof bowl over a saucepan of near-boiling water so the steam softens the butter.
- Stir in the sugar until it melts into the butter.
- Add the rum and spice, stir vigorously then pour into a bowl.
- Allow to cool and set before serving.
Recipe courtesy of Margaret Crosby.
The ‘Bird that never flew’
Robins are linked to Keswick through its patron saint, St Kentigern, often known as ‘St Mungo’ who came to Keswick in 553 AD.
The bird that never flew was a pet robin belonging to St Serf, the leader of the monastery at Culross in Fife.
The bird was killed by young boys; however, Mungo somehow brought it back to life! A symbol of the Robin can be found at St Kentigern’s Church, along with a tree, fish, and bell to symbolise the four miracles of St Mungo.
A Christmas Toast
“May sorrow’s wings an’ tail be clip,
If she attempt to flee
Owe t’boundary mark that guards the heart
Of them sea kind an free;
An may their keayle-pot nivver swing
Dry bag’d ower the crain,
But be weel cram’d wi’ beef and broth
When Christmas comes again;
Ah may we aw wi’ thankful hearts
Enjoy the bounteous cheer,
An wish the generous soul that gev’t
Another happy year”
Now here at The Lake District Protection Society, we hope all our supporters, volunteers, and partners have a wonderful Christmas and a great start to 2023; and be sure to get on board with any traditions that take place in your town!
