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Blackwell

Blackwell is a spectacular Arts & Crafts house in the Lake District, built as a holiday home by the architect MH Baillie Scott, for his client Sir Edward Holt.  It’s a masterpiece of 20th century design, and an immaculate example of the Arts & Crafts Movement, which celebrates nature in architecture.  Blackwell overlooks the shores of Lake Windermere;  with seasonal exhibitions of national importance, both indoors and out, and has a lovely tea room, shop with interesting gift ideas,  and hosts events throughout the year.

The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back – sit in the window seat and enjoy the view, or read a book.  The house is not roped-off and you can wander free..  It’s a great place to go with friends and family and has many fascinating things to absorb you – the attention to detail and craftsmanship displayed here is second to none.   Blackwell retains many of its original decorative features, including a rare hessian wall-hanging in the Dining Room, leaf-shaped door handles, curious window catches, spectacular plasterwork, stained glass and carved wooden panelling by Simpsons of Kendal.

The rooms contain furniture and objects by many of the leading Arts & Crafts designers and studios – metalwork by WAS Benson, ceramics by Pilkingtons and Ruskin Pottery and furniture by Morris & Co., Stanley Webb Davies, Ernest Gimson and Baillie Scott himself.

Hints and Tips: Get yourself booked on a tour with one of Blackwell’s volunteers to understand more about the history of this beautiful home.  Its Christmas activity during the whole of December really gets you in the spirit of the season, with festive events, music and food.

Why we like it: If you’ve visitors to entertain and impress – this beautiful house always inspires a visit – the grounds and views are breathtaking, and it is so elegant and the kind of place you can imagine living in. Plus they allow you to play the piano!