CUMBRIA is home to stunning scenery, including the beautiful Lake District, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

However, the county is also home to a number of historic spots, several of which are owned by the National Trust.

This week, we asked readers of the News & Star to share their best National Trust sites in Cumbria.

Here - in no particular order - are our readers’ choice.

1: AIRA FORCE, NEAR ULLSWATER

The waterfall, situated near Lake Ullswater, has been visited by many for hundreds of years.

Rainwater from the fells runs into Aira Beck and down a 65-foot leap over the falls.

Walkers also have the chance to take on a network of trails from Ullswater lakeshore to Gowbarrow summit.

In the last few years, Ullswater Steamers launched regular services to Aira Force from its other lake stops at Glenridding, Howtown and Pooley Bridge.

2: WORDSWORTH HOUSE, COCKERMOUTH

The Georgian townhouse, based in Cockermouth, was the birthplace and childhood home of renowned poet William Wordsworth.

The home offers visitors the chance to take a step back in time to the 1770s, and see how it looked when Wordsworth lived there with his parents, three brothers and servants.

3: WRAY CASTLE, NEAR WINDERMERE

Located beside Lake Windermere, Wray Castle was built 180 years ago.

It was constructed by a surgeon and heiress from Liverpool, who later moved out in the 1920s.

The castle, which offers panoramic views of the Lake, opened its doors to visitors in 2011.

A research project is underway by the National Trust to uncover more about its former owners, the Dawsons.

4: ENNERDALE

Situated on the north western edge of the Lake District National Park, the area of Ennerdale hosts one of the country’s longest running wild land restoration projects.

Named the Wild Ennerdale Partnership, the group works together to allow the landscape to evolve naturally.

There are also a number of walks at Ennerdale Water, one of which ventures along the river Liza and through the valley.

5: BEATRIX POTTER GALLERY, HAWKSHEAD

The gallery, based in a 17th century house, contains original artwork from Beatrix Potter herself.

The building previously servced as an officer for Beatrix’s husband, who was a solicitor.

6: TOWNEND, TROUTBECK VALLEY

The farmhouse was home to the Brownes of Townend, a farming family.

A traditional Lake District slate and stone building, the property offers a glimpse into life in the county 400 years ago.

7: ACORN BANK, EDEN VALLEY

The garden and watermill at Temple Sowerby, near Penrith, contains a huge herb collection and traditional fruit orchards.

Visitors also have the opportunity to explore Crowdundle Beck, and the nearby woodland, which offers views of the Eden Valley and the Lake District.