Lowther Castle

Lowther Castle

Route: Lowther Castle and Gardens

Area: North Eastern Lake District

Date of walk: 6th June 2018

Walkers: Andrew and Gilly

Distance: 3.0 miles

Weather: Cloudy

Lowther Castle has a long and varied history, and following World War II was an unwanted ruin, which was deteriorating further as there were insufficient funds with which to maintain it. In recent years however a plan has been drawn up to consolidate the ruins, restore the 50 acre garden, and open the grounds to the public

We were last here 3 years ago and since that time the transformation has gathered pace. We were astounded by the amount of work (and money) which has been invested, making this place a must see attraction

After entering the gardens (free to members of Historic Houses), we made a beeline for the castle ruins. Renowned garden designer Dan Pearson has created a beautiful space within the ruins, in what used to be the old billiard room. The adjacent parterre has also been developed with some imaginative and quite superb planting

We then wandered along Yew Avenue to Western Terrace, from which there are wonderful views over the surrounding countryside. We passed by the Lost Castle, another feature which has been added since our last visit. Anyone with children or grandchildren will want to know that this is the largest wooden playground in the country

We continued around the perimeter of the gardens, visiting Jack Croft’s Pond, enjoying the views from Patte d’Oie and strolling round the rock garden and the new orchard. It was a wonderful visit despite the indifferent weather, and we look forward to returning in the future to see what further changes have been made

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