Explore the charming Lake District and Cumbria with the National Trust as your guide. You lose yourself in the scenery, history of old buildings, lovely lake district gardens, and lakes with sparkling clear water that reflects like mirrors.
Spanning 123,500 acres, this area is full of tales and terrains. Every nook from whispering woodlands to historic homesteads is a scene from a Beatrix Potter book. Come with us on a casual walk through beautiful properties managed by National Trust Cumbria. Enjoy the lakes, waters, and landscapes.
Majestic Manors and Historic Homes
Journey through Cumbria with the National Trust’s collection of historic homes and gardens. Each site offers a unique window into the past, from the healing herb gardens of Acorn Bank to the poetic beauty of Wordsworth’s Allan Bank. Marvel at Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world, enjoy leisurely strolls in Victorian parks and explore the grandeur of Sizergh Castle. Glide across Coniston Water on the elegant Gondola, and step into the domestic life of the 17th century at Townend House. Uncover the rich tapestry of history and nature that makes Cumbria a truly remarkable destination.
- Acorn Bank: A garden paradise known for its medicinal herbs and traditional fruit orchards.
- Acorn Bank Mill: Discover the magic of water power in this charmingly restored mill.
- Allan Bank: Wordsworth’s former home, offering breathtaking views and artistic inspiration.
- Beatrix Potter Gallery: Step into Beatrix Potter’s imagination, where tales of Peter Rabbit come alive.
- Fell Foot: A Victorian park restored to its former glory, offering lakeside picnics and leisurely strolls.
- Hill Top: The beloved home of Beatrix Potter, filled with her personal belongings and the essence of her stories.
- Sizergh Castle: Explore this stately homerich in history with its beautiful walled gardens, herbaceous borders, kitchen gardens and rock garden.
- Stagshaw Gardens: A woodland garden bursting with colour and a vast collection of rhododendrons and azaleas.
- Gondola: Glide across Coniston Water on this elegantly restored steam yacht gondola.
- Townend House: Experience the intricate woodwork and domestic life of a 17th-century farmhouse.
- Wordsworth House: The birthplace and historic house of William Wordsworth, offering a glimpse into the poet’s early life. The riverside flower and herb garden are worth a visit.
- Wray Castle: A mock-Gothic castle with quirky interiors and adventurous grounds.
National Trust Lakes
Make a splash with the National Trust’s ensemble of lakes, where Buttermere not only mirrors craggy peaks with its serene surface but also invites peaceful introspection. Meanwhile, Crummock Water, with its gentle ripples, calls for quiet reflection. Derwentwater buzzes with vibrant life, starkly contrasting Elterwater’s tranquil paths. On the other hand, Ennerdale Water serves as a wild retreat, untouched and pure.
Grasmere resonates with poetic echoes, weaving history with nature’s tranquillity. Loweswater presents a secluded nook of rustic charm, a hidden gem for those seeking solace. Furthermore, Rydal Water enchants visitors with its literary connections, whispering tales of old. Lastly, the dramatic heights framing Wastwater’s depths create a compelling narrative of nature’s grandeur, each lake narrating a unique story of enchantment and wonder, eagerly awaiting your exploration.
- Buttermere: Renowned for its reflective waters and surrounded by craggy peaks and pastoral lands.
- Crummock Water: A tranquil spot with dramatic mountain views, perfect for quiet contemplation.
- Derwentwater: Surrounded by fells, this lake is a hub for outdoor activities and picturesque scenery.
- Elterwater: A smaller, serene lake, offering peaceful walks and stunning Lakeland views.
- Ennerdale Water: The most remote of the lakes, offering wild beauty and tranquility.
- Grasmere: Famous for its association with Wordsworth and its charming, poetic landscapes.
- Loweswater: A quiet lake away from the crowds, with gentle walks and rustic charm.
- Rydal Water: Known for its literary connections and the picturesque Rydal Mount nearby.
- Wastwater: England’s deepest lake, surrounded by dramatic screes and towering peaks.
National Trust Tarns
Dip into the tranquil National Trust Tarns, each a serene haven within the Lake District’s lush landscapes. Wander by Brothers Water, a peaceful valley gem; gaze upon Blea Tarn, set against dramatic Langdale Pikes; and find seclusion at Little Langdale Tarn, nestled among rugged hills. Embrace the calm at Loughrigg Tarn, a Wordsworthian “miniature lake”; seek solitude at the off-the-beaten-path Overwater Tarn; and stroll around picturesque Tarn Hows, a 19th-century creation. Savour the quiet beauty of Watendlath Tarn with its cosy tea room, and enjoy easy access to the serene Yew Tree Tarn on your way to Coniston. Each turn offers a unique escape into nature’s quiet embrace.
- Brothers Water: A small, peaceful lake in a scenic valley, ideal for tranquil walks.
- Blea Tarn: Set against the backdrop of the Langdale Pikes, offering postcard-perfect views.
- Little Langdale Tarn: A quiet tarn with a backdrop of rugged hills, perfect for a secluded picnic.
- Loughrigg Tarn: Described by Wordsworth as a “miniature lake”, reflecting the tranquillity of the area.
- Overwater Tarn: Off the beaten path, this tarn offers solitude and unspoiled beauty.
- Tarn Hows: A picturesque spot created in the 19th century, offering easy walks and stunning views.
- Watendlath Tarn: A high tarn known for its tranquil beauty and traditional tea room.
- Yew Tree Tarn: A small tarn on the way to Coniston, offering easy access and peaceful surroundings.
Other Timeless National Trust Properties in Cumbria
National Trust Cumbria offers much to see and do, from the stunning views atop Arnside Knott to the unique Bridge House. Delve into history at Cartmel Priory Gate and wander amidst ancient stones at Castlerigg Circle. Enjoy peaceful walks at Cockshott Point, uncover medieval tales at Dalton Castle, and catch rare glimpses of Derwent Isle House. Seek solitude in Dunnerdale, step back in time at Roman forts like Galva and Hardknott, and stroll through the historic heart of Hawkshead.
Find tranquillity at Keld Chapel, diverse beauty at High Close Estate, and charming scenes at Church Stile. Discover industrial heritage at Force Crag Mine, birdlife at Plumpton Marsh, traditional farming at Yew Tree Farm, and nature’s wonders at Sandscale Haws. The vistas from Claife Heights and the dramatic Cathedral Cave offer unforgettable experiences in Cumbria’s diverse landscape.
- Arnside Knott: A small hill offering stunning views of the Kent Estuary and surrounding countryside.
- Bridge House: An iconic 17th-century house built over Stock Beck, famous for its unique architecture.
- Cartmel Priory Gate: The ancient gateway to the medieval Cartmel Priory, steeped in history.
- Castlerigg Circle: An atmospheric stone circle with panoramic mountain views, echoing ancient times.
- Cockshott Point: A peaceful promontory on Windermere, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Dalton Castle: A 14th-century pele tower with a rich history of defense and refuge.
- Derwent Isle House: A privately owned island with limited open days, offering unique views of Derwentwater.
- Dunnerdale: A lesser-visited valley with rugged beauty, ideal for those seeking solitude.
- Galva Roman Fort: Explore the remnants of Roman military life in this strategically placed fort.
- Wordsworth Point: A scenic spot commemorating Wordsworth’s love for the Lake District landscapes.
- Hardknott Fort: One of England’s most remote Roman forts, offering spectacular views and ancient ruins.
- Hawkshead Court: The medieval heart of Hawkshead, reflecting centuries of community life.
- Keld Chapel: A simple, serene chapel dating back to the 16th century, nestled in a tranquil setting.
- High Close Estate: An estate with diverse landscapes, from formal gardens to wild woodlands.
- Church Stile: A picturesque spot in Grasmere, capturing the essence of the village’s charm.
- Force Crag Mine: The last mineral mine worked in the Lake District, showcasing the area’s industrial heritage.
- Plumpton Marsh: A haven for birdwatchers, with diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.
- Yew Tree Farm: A picturesque farm with a Beatrix Potter connection showcasing traditional Lakeland life.
- Sandscale Haws: A dynamic dune system with rare flora and fauna, overlooking the Duddon Estuary.
- Claife Heights: Offering panoramic views of Windermere and a haven for walkers and cyclists.
- Cathedral Cave: A striking man-made cave in Langdale, offering an unusual and dramatic experience.
Landscapes Alive with Lore
Find National Trust landscapes in Cumbria that teem with tales. Aira Force captivates with its majestic falls and wooded paths, leading to awe-inspiring vistas. Meanwhile, Borrowdale unfolds with lush scenery and historic echoes, inviting wanderers along its storied trails. The Bowder Stone serves as a quirky highlight in Lakeland’s terrain, a natural spectacle. Additionally, Dora’s Field blooms in memory, a sea of daffodils honouring Wordsworth’s daughter.
The Edward VII Memorial offers panoramic views over Windermere, while Brandlehow Wood casts a serene spell by Derwentwater. Friar’s Crag presents unparalleled beauty, echoing Ruskin’s praise. Great Langdale beckons adventurers with its dramatic allure, and, similarly, Little Langdale provides a peaceful haven, weaving a tapestry of woods and hills steeped in quietude.
- Aira Force: A spectacular waterfall set in beautiful woodland, with pathways leading to stunning viewpoints.
- Borrowdale: A valley renowned for its verdant scenery, historic slate mines, and walking trails.
- The Bowder Stone: A massive, naturally balanced boulder, a curiosity within the Lakeland landscape.
- Dora’s Field: A woodland area carpeted with daffodils in spring, planted by Wordsworth in memory of his daughter.
- Edward VII Memorial: A viewpoint commemorating King Edward VII, offering sweeping views of Windermere.
- Brandlehow Wood: A tranquil woodland on the shores of Derwentwater, reflecting the serenity of the lakes.
- Friar’s Crag: A jutting promontory on Derwentwater, offering one of the best views in England, according to Ruskin.
- Great Langdale: A valley known for its dramatic landscapes, popular with walkers and climbers.
- Little Langdale: A quieter valley with a patchwork of small fields, ancient woods, and rugged hills.
National Trust Membership
Getting a National Trust membership can make a big difference. You get free entry to amazing places and free parking, making exploring easier. Visiting Cumbria is not just a trip, it’s an investment in preserving its treasures for future generations. Each visit is a meaningful journey through beautiful landscapes and historic halls.
