Dean Fraser looked beyond only the beauty of the lakes to explore the arts and heritage upon which the greatness of the county is built. Here we have the stories of people. Stories of famous people born and bred locally sit alongside those poetic tales whose exploits focussed the attention of the world on the region; and yet, so often Dean tells of ordinary people getting to have their story shared for the first time.

• One man’s desperate escape from rural poverty to build a new life in the Barrow Shipyard
• Finding inspiration at Coniston and once more sharing the story
• Encountering world famous comedians and musicians
• Walking in the footsteps of his ancestors in Backbarrow and Ulverston
• Paying due homage is given to Windermere
• Digging up the Mining Heritage of the region
• Exploring mysterious and ancient Stone Circles
• Pondering the Green Cliffs of St Bees
• Two thousand years in the life of Carlisle and a journey from Settle to the City
• Ambleside of the shoulders of poets
• Talking of one hero, Alfred Wainwright, who’s legendary books inspired exploration
• Lancashire to Cumbria on foot
• Trying not to add to his library in Sedbergh and failing to resist
• Visiting Penrith enriching mind, body, and soul
• Conquering Hardnott Pass in a classic car
• Tebay services is appreciated for its uniqueness

Dean Fraser says “Cumbria’s industrial past and present provided ample inspiration. There are poetic journeys telling of my own personal perspective on the county I have been visiting since being a small boy. And I pay homage to some of the creative geniuses who found themselves also inspired by Cumbria. Although I looked beyond the lakes, they are never easily ignored and get to take centre-stage in more than a few poems! I hope that you enjoy this collection as much as I loved writing it for you."