The Lake District in Cumbria, England, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, which is reflected in its numerous stately homes and country houses. These grand estates offer a glimpse into the region’s past, showcasing architectural styles from various eras and the lives of the families who have lived there for generations.
Holker Hall: A Jacobean Gem
Holker Hall, located in Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, is a Jacobean-style country house that has been owned by the Cavendish family since 1756. The house has a history dating back to the early 16th century and has undergone significant renovations, including a major rebuild in the 19th century after a fire. Visitors can explore the house’s Victorian interiors, complete with period furniture and artwork, and enjoy the stunning views of Morecambe Bay from the surrounding parkland.
Dalemain: A Blend of Old and New
Dalemain, located in Penrith, Lake District, has been home to the same family since 1679 and boasts a mix of medieval and Georgian architectural styles. The house has been extended and remodeled over the centuries, resulting in a unique blend of old and new features. Visitors can explore the medieval hall, the 17th-century Chinese room, and the award-winning historic gardens with views of the High Fells.
Hutton-in-the-Forest: A Pele Tower and Regency Charm
Hutton-in-the-Forest, located in Penrith, Lake District, is a historic house that has been owned by just two families, the de Hoton and Fletcher families, since its construction in the 14th century. The house features a pele tower built in 1350 and has undergone significant additions and renovations over the centuries, resulting in a mix of Regency and Victorian decoration, including original William Morris wallpaper.
Sizergh Castle: Medieval Grandeur and Fine Furnishings
Sizergh Castle, located in Kendal, Lake District, is a medieval house with a pele tower built in the 14th century. The house has undergone significant extensions and renovations, including the addition of Elizabethan and Tudor features. Visitors can admire the fine paintings and furniture, as well as excellent examples of wood paneling, within the castle’s walls.
Lowther Castle: A Ruinous Jacobean Mansion
Lowther Castle, located in Penrith, Lake District, has a long and complex history, with the original castle dating back to the 12th century. The castle has been rebuilt and extended multiple times, with the current structure being a ruinous shell of a Jacobean mansion. Despite its current state, the castle is set in beautiful natural surroundings and is currently undergoing restoration.
Rydal Mount: The Home of William Wordsworth
Rydal Mount, located in Ambleside, Lake District, was the home of William Wordsworth, one of the most famous poets of the Romantic era. The house features a mix of 16th-century and later architectural styles and contains many of Wordsworth’s personal possessions and first editions of his work, offering a unique insight into the poet’s life.
Muncaster Castle: A Pennington Family Stronghold
Muncaster Castle, located in Ravenglass, Lake District, has been owned by the Pennington family for over 800 years and features a 14th-century pele tower. The castle has undergone significant renovations and extensions over the centuries and is set in 77 acres of gardens, featuring a hawk and owl centre and holiday accommodation on the estate.
Levens Hall: Sumptuous Interiors and Striking Gardens
Levens Hall, located in Kendal, Lake District, is a Grade I listed stately home with a history dating back to the 14th century. The house features a mix of medieval and Elizabethan architectural styles and is known for its sumptuous interiors and striking gardens, including the world’s oldest topiary garden.
Cartmel Priory: A Blend of Medieval and Later Styles
Cartmel Priory, located in Cartmel, Lake District, dates back to the 12th century and features a mix of medieval and later architectural styles. The priory was largely destroyed in the 16th century but still retains its parish church and gatehouse, offering guided tours and featuring a resin bronze sculpture by Josefina de Vasconcellos.
Brantwood: The Home of John Ruskin
Brantwood, located in Coniston, Lake District, was the home of John Ruskin, a prominent artist and social reformer. The house features a mix of Victorian and later architectural styles and contains an assortment of furniture, paintings, and personal items related to Ruskin, as well as stunning gardens with views of Coniston Water.
These stately homes and country houses offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Lake District, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, these grand estates are sure to captivate and inspire.
Reference:
– Holker Hall
– Dalemain
– Hutton-in-the-Forest
– Sizergh Castle
– Lowther Castle
– Rydal Mount
– Muncaster Castle
– Levens Hall
– Cartmel Priory
– Brantwood