Glorious Gardens: Gateway to the Lakes

Begin your day with a scenic drive through the rolling countryside to the historic Elizabethan family home and garden, Levens Hall. The land itself dates to the thirteenth century where the original Pele tower was built on the land to work as a defence structure on the Anglo-Scottish border. The land was later purchased by the Bellingham Family who transformed the mediaeval tower into the Elizabethan manor you see today. You will approach the house by the north facing stone staircase before exploring the fascinating history and interior. Upon arrival be greeted by a guide offering historic insight into the lives of the people that once resided at the Hall. Enjoy the beautiful craftsmanship and wood panelled walls adorned with the Bellingham Family Crest and the Royal Arms of Elizabeth I.

Following the tour, you will have time to explore the world’s oldest topiary gardens, you will discover the stunning garden filled with a unique collection of ancient box and yew trees shaped in abstract and geometric shapes that rise over the beautiful display of underplanting. You may even see some gardeners hard at work maintaining the flora. To end your visit at Levens Hall you will enjoy a lunch at Levens Kitchen, where much of the produce is provided by the agricultural estate which is open to exploration.

After lunch depart for the idyllic Grasmere to wander the village and visit St Oswald's Church, the resting place of the Wordsworth’s and one of the original and still practising Christian Churches established in England in the seventh century. Have a wander in Wordsworth’s Daffodil Garden while you enjoy a taste of a famous local delicacy, Grasmere Gingerbread before departing for Rydal Hall to enjoy their garden and spending a tranquil afternoon at Rydal Mount. Here you can visit inside the grade 1 listed building and the family home of the Wordsworth’s. Set in the picturesque landscape the house and gardens overlook Rydal Water surrounded by woodland fells. Enjoy a tea and cake in the main garden of the house after wandering the verdant woodland and historic and final home of Romantic poet Wordworth.

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You may cancel 48 hours prior to departure & receive a full refund. After 48 hours no refund will be issued