With over 20% of the Lake District National Park under the care of the National Trust, there’s a wealth of must-visit National Trust properties to choose from.
If you can tear yourself away from the spectacular scenery of the National Park, it’s well worth spending an afternoon exploring one of these National Trust properties in Cumbria.
From elegant stately homes to landscaped gardens and captivating historical buildings, there’s something for everyone.
Continue reading to learn more about the best Lake District’s National Trust properties to visit…
Positioned in the Cumbrian village of Near Sawrey rests Hill Top, the former home of world-renowned author Beatrix Potter.
Purchased using the royalties from her much-loved book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Hill Top was left to the National Trust in 1943. Since then, the property remains untouched, with the authors original furniture and belongings left as they were.
It’s here that Beatrix penned some of her most popular children’s novels, including The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck and The Tale of Tom Kitten. You can even see the rhubarb patch that Jemima Puddle-Duck used to lay her egg!
As well as a tour of the 17th century farmhouse, entry includes access to Beatrix Potters’ Garden. Head Gardener, Pete Tasker, has worked tirelessly over the past 30 years to restore the garden to its former glory based upon Potters original drawings.
One for the literary buffs, tickets to this Lake District National Trust property must be booked in advance. Entry to Hill Top House is free for National Trust members.
The 1,600-acre estate at Sizergh Castle sits a few miles south of Kendal, on the edge of the National Park.
Formerly Sizergh Hall, this National Trust property dates back to the early 1300s. The original building comprised of a pele tower and hall.
The property was later developed into a magnificent stately home, where the Strickland family has resided ever since.
The interior of Sizergh Castle is adorned with a rare collection of Elizabethan carved oak furniture, wood panelling, and overmantels. A handy information sheet is available in each of the open rooms, detailing its history, contents, and significance.
Beautifully maintained gardens surround the castle, decorated in wildflowers, ancient trees, and enchanting water features. The grounds are also home to the National Trust’s largest limestone rock garden.
A network of trails lead through the extensive grounds of this Lake District National Trust property. Little ones can get exploring along the wild play trail, whilst guided walks offer a fascinating insight into the surroundings.
Situated in the heart of Cockermouth is the birthplace and former family home of English poet, William Wordsworth.
Winner of the Cumbria Tourism’s Small Visitor Attraction of the Year award, this one is amongst the best National Trust properties in the area.
The interior of Wordsworth House is laid out as it would have been during the families occupancy in the 1770s. This Cumbrian National Trust property offers visitors a fascinating look into life throughout the 18th Century and tells the tales of Wordsworth himself.
Georgian maids take you through an immersive tour of Wordsworth House. Exhibition rooms include a Georgian kitchen, complete with chefs preparing traditional Georgian dishes, and a recreation of the office of Wordsworth’s father.
More recently, an exhibition in the basement of this townhouse displays the extent of the damaged caused by the devastating Cockermouth floods of 2009.
The gardens surrounding the property are wheelchair accessible, and offer peaceful trails through vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
Pre-booking is not essential, however is recommended during peak season. National Trust members are welcome at no additional fee. For non-members, you can check the prices here.
Overlooking the shores of Lake Windermere sits one of the most well-known National Trust properties in Cumbria, Wray Castle. Sitting under the care of the National Trust since 1929, the castle opened its doors to the public in 2011.
Eye-catching Gothic Revival architecture decorates the exterior, with turrets and towers rising into the skyline.
Different to our other National Trust properties listed, Wray Castle is relatively empty inside. The historical artefacts and antique portraits that remain tell the story of the families that once lived here.
A medieval portcullis rises at the enterance, granting access to the impressive interior. Marvel at the Gothic arched doorways and wood panelled walls as your imagination runs wild, trying to imagine Wray Castle in its hayday.
There’s lots for little ones to see and do here, from dressing up to arts and crafts. There’s even an outdoor play area, perfect for little legs looking to let off some steam!
Outside, the extensive grounds direct access to the shores of Lake Windermere. A quiet shingle beach provides a stunning setting to soak in the sights.
Make your way through the towering woodland and explore the network of lakeside trails leading from this Lake District National Trust
You can make a day of it with refreshments from the on-site cafe. For an indulgent break, pack a picnic and dine amongst the stunning greenery of the gardens.
Donated to the National Trust in 1948, Townend is a 17th century white-washed farmhouse located in the village of Troutbeck.
Before this, this Lake District National Trust property was home to the Browne family for over 400 years. Today, Townend opens its doors to the public to offer a facinating insight into the lives that once lived here.
You’ll take a step back in time as you head inside, where slate floors and carved wooden furniture decorate the interior.
A roaring open fire gently warms the farmhouse kitchen, equipped with all of the essentials once needed to rustle up a hearty meal. In the library you’ll find a magnificent collection of over 1,500 books, some of which are the worlds last remaining copies.
Beatrix Potter once described Troutbeck Valley as her favourite. With trees growing to great heights and vibrant flowers blooming throughout the cottage garden, it’s easy to see why.
Pre-booking is recommended at this Cumbrian National Trust property, as spaces and opening times are limited.
Make use of our handy Lake District National Trust property map to plan where you want to go.
With so many magical Lake District National Trust properties to choose from, you wont be short on things to do here! Book a break at one of our wonderful Lake District Lodges and secure your base!
For more inspiration on how to spend your time in the Lakes, give our guide to the Catbells walk a read. You’ll want to pack your walking boots for this one!
Images courtesy of: Kirk Siang – (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Jennifer Petrie – (CC BY-SA 2.0); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Barbara Carr – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Carol Walker – (CC BY-SA 2.0)
