Hampsfell Hospice

Residing atop the grasslands and limestone rocks of Cumbria is what has been a welcome sight for weary travelers for more than a century. The Hampsfell Hospice was constructed as a shelter for travelers to the region. The small tower and shelter were built by the Vicar of Cartmel around 1846.

The location served as a refuge for those attempting to escape the elements, or looking to enjoy the views from atop the tower. Inside the shelter are a few stone benches, as well as a fireplace for travelers to warm themselves. There are also several plaques inside gracing the walls that hold poems declaring the shelter as a place for all, no matter how rich or poor, young or old. 

Also atop the shelter, visitors will find a toposcope, which is believed to have been added to the structure much later. This orientation table features angles, that when aligned with the corresponding chart, allows visitors to know exactly what they are looking at off in the distance. 

Above the entrance to the hospice is the Homeric phrase, “RODODAKTYLOS EOS.” This generally translates into Rosy-fingered Dawn, which Homer often used to describe Eos, the Titanic goddess of the dawn.