'Swallows and Amazons' by Arthur Ransome is also set in the Lake District. It tells the story of children having adventures on the lakes, sailing boats and exploring the natural beauty. It's a great read for those interested in the area's charm and a sense of adventure.
'The Adventures of Peter Rabbit in the Lake District' is a great one too. It takes the beloved Peter Rabbit characters and places them in the context of the Lake District, teaching young readers about the area while they enjoy the story.
One characteristic is the strong sense of place. The Lake District's beautiful yet sometimes eerie landscapes are often integral to the story, like providing the perfect backdrop for a crime or a place to hide clues.
It's hard to say for sure. There could be elements of truth in some of the stories. The haunted inn story might have some basis in the fact that old buildings often have strange noises due to their age and structure. But the idea of it being due to ghosts on an ancient burial ground is more of a superstition. However, in some cases, local legends could be a way of explaining natural phenomena that people didn't understand in the past, like misty apparitions being misinterpreted as ghosts.
The Lake District also has a story about a haunted inn. Guests have reported strange noises like footsteps in the empty corridors and cold spots in certain rooms. It is believed that the inn was built on an ancient burial ground, and the spirits of those buried there are not at peace. Some have even claimed to see a shadowy figure moving around in the dead of night.
The Lake District has some hidden caves with interesting rock formations that are not well-known but offer a novel exploration experience. Also, there are special guided bird-watching tours that allow you to spot rare species in their natural habitat.
Martin Edwards has also made a name for himself with his works in this genre. His novels not only present engaging detective stories but also give a great sense of the Lake District's atmosphere, with detailed descriptions of the local scenery, villages and the unique culture there.