The new Peter Rabbit film is due out nationwide, but the story began long before James Corden landed his latest voice-over role. In our excitement, we thought it would be a fun opportunity to share some interesting facts about Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit.Our Aphrodite’s Hotel, Windermere Spa Suites, Tranquil Retreat and private cottage are all based near Lake Windermere. Incidentally, if you book one of our spa rooms, they all come with their own private hot tub.
Windermere is an area that the great childhood author knew well, so we’re very much looking forward to seeing what the film makes of it all.
Interesting Facts about Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit
- Beatrix Potter was born Helen Beatrix Potter on 28th July, 1866 in Kensington, London.
- As a small child, her pet rabbit was named Benjamin Bouncer (Benjamin would later be the name given to Peter Rabbits naughty cousin).
- Family holidays would be spent in Scotland as well as here in the Lake District.
- At the age of 14, Beatrix kept a diary all written in code. She also drew pictures in among the notes of Lake Windermere and her other favourite places.
- The character Peter Rabbit originated in letters sent to her private teacher, Annie Carter in 1893.
- These stories would also include the names Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontrail who would later appear in “the Tale of Peter Rabbit”, published in 1902.
- The book became a huge success. Beatrix Potter wrote a further 30 books, several as part of the Peter Rabbit series.
- With fond memories of her early holidays in Bowness-on-Windermere, she went on to buy Hill Top Farm – on the outskirts of the Lake District.
- In 1943 suffering with pneumonia, Beatrix Potter passed away in the Lake District on 22nd December aged 77.
- With over 4000 acres of land, it was written in her will to be left to the National Trust.
- This gesture is largely responsible for the Lake District National Park becoming the UNESCO World Heritage Site we know today.
- The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness-on-Windermere is one of the Lake Districts most popular tourist attractions. It is of course dedicated to the great lady and continues to promote her outstanding legacy.
- Peter Rabbit has materialised in many forms, including children’s cartoons, toys and memorabilia.
Book a Boutique Spa Suite in Windermere
Now some 116 years after the first book, Peter Rabbit hits the big screen. However when you visit the Lake District it’s not just about the movie, but everything that goes with it.
Book a few days at a Windermere boutique spa suite and enjoy luxurious surroundings. Relax in your own hot tub or private garden, maybe with an original Peter Rabbit story book to read.