Nestled between the picturesque terrain of the Lake District National Park lies Bassenthwaite Lake, located close to latitude 54.45422300000001 and longitude -3.211602000000001 in Cumbria, England. This tranquil body of water is home to one of the lesser-known legends of British folklore, the story of the Bassenthwaite Lake Monster. Dating back to the 17th century, this local tale tells of a giant serpent-like creature living in the great depths of Bassenthwaite, known simply as ‘Bessy’. The descriptions of Bessy often resemble those of the iconic Loch Ness monster, with a long neck and a humped back. Many locals and visitors claim to have had sightings of the elusive creature, with one of the most famous accounts being from a Bishop who allegedly encountered the beast during a boat trip on the lake in the 20th century. He claimed to have seen a large creature move swiftly under the water, creating a large disturbance before disappearing into the murky depths. It’s thought that the legend was first circulated by local innkeepers hoping to attract visitors and boost local business. Over time Bessy’s legend has continued to captivate the imaginations of locals and tourists alike. While there has never been any conclusive proof of Bessy’s existence, the tale remains an enduring part of the cultural fabric of Bassenthwaite and the wider Lake District region. Some even consider a trip to this area incomplete without spending some time scanning the waters of Bassenthwaite for a sighting of the legendary beast. If Bessy does indeed reside in the depths of this beautiful Lake, she remains a tantalizing mystery and a cherished local legend.