Hill Top is the house that once belonged to the children’s author, Beatrix Potter, which she bought with the income from the sale of her first little white book – The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Hill Top has been kept almost as she left it – full of her art, her writings, and many of her fascinating belongings. She left it to the National Trust when she died, who keep it as it was when she wrote her many books there. Not only was she a prolific author, writing 23 of the ‘Little White Books’ but also a champion for conservation in the Lake District, leaving farms and land to the National Trust when she died. She was an inspiration and a major factor in why the Lake District looks as it does today, protected and managed sympathetically for future generations.
Wander through the cottage garden and imagine yourself going back in time; enjoy the traditional flowers and plantings here, then head into Mr McGregor’s vegetable patch, where you can look out for Jemima Puddleduck’s egg! In the paddock next to the garden you’ll sometimes get to see herdwick sheep – another great love of Beatrix Potters’.
There’s a great little shop, selling all things Potter, and there are seasonal events on through the year especially during school holidays.
Why we like it: It transports you back to a more innocent time, where books were more popular than screens! And tells all those stories of the Little White Books. There’s the most fascinating dolls house which has so much detail you’ll be there for ages looking at it.
Hint and tips: There’s no tearoom but its right next door to the Tower Bank Arms serving lovely Cumbrian food and drink. Just next to the car park too is the Sawrey Hotel, serving lunches and drinks. For opening times check here.
