Ees Wyke was built as a Lake District retreat for a Lancashire mill owner in 1742. The Norse name Ees Wyke was given to the house, meaning "east area" in relation to Esthwaite Water. Wykes can aslo be a slip of land. Close by there is also an inlet on the lake known as Ees Wyke. "Thwaites" are clearings in a wooded area.

The children's author, Beatrix Potter, stayed at Ees Wyke several times when the house was rented as their Lake District holiday home. At that time Ees Wyke was known as Lakefield. Later she purchased nearby Hill Top Farm the setting for six of her books, the first being The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

Ees Wyke was a private home up until 1976, when it was converted into a hotel. With comfort care and good food it has gone from strength to strength and receives commendations in the principle guides.

Looking at the map you see that there is Near Sawrey and Far Sawrey. Near and Far refer to the village's location in relationship to Hawkshead the former administrative centre.

Incidentally Hawkshead is referred to, by those living in the village, as the big city!