Hawkshead Grammar School was built in 1585 by the Archbishop of York, Edwin Sandys, making it one of the oldest buildings in the area. The most famous pupil of the school was poet William Wordsworth, who attended here with his brother, John. Desks that have been heavily carved by the schoolboys, including the Wordsworths, can be seen in the old schooroom on the ground floor.
On the upper floor is the old headmaster's study, and an exhibition detailing the history of the school, and the life of Wordsworth. Among the articles on display are the oriinal letters patent from Queen Elizabeth I, granting license to create the school. The grammar school is located in the centre of the village, just below the church.
