Sizergh Castle & Gardens

Discover Sizergh Castle and Gardens

Nestled in the rolling countryside just south of Kendal, Sizergh Castle is part of the larger Sizergh estate, a captivating blend of medieval history, Elizabethan craftsmanship, and natural beauty. Managed by the National Trust, this Grade I listed estate has been home to the Strickland family since 1239, offering visitors a unique glimpse into over 700 years of heritage.

🏰 Explore the Castle

The heart of Sizergh is its 14th-century pele tower, surrounded by later Tudor and Georgian additions. During the Elizabethan era, historical renovations raised the hall to the first floor, adding additional wings and transforming the structure aesthetically and functionally. You’ll find richly decorated rooms featuring ornate plasterwork, antique furniture, and family portraits. A highlight is the Inlaid Chamber, renowned for its exquisite Elizabethan oak panelling, considered among the finest in England. Originally housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum, the panelling was returned to Sizergh in 1999, restoring the room’s historic splendour.

History of Sizergh Castle

Sizergh Castle, located in the picturesque Lake District, boasts a rich and fascinating history that spans over 800 years. The castle has been the cherished home of the Strickland family since the 13th century, with its earliest parts dating back to the 14th or 15th century. The estate passed into the hands of the Strickland family following Elizabeth Deincourt’s marriage to Sir William de Stirkeland in 1239, marking the beginning of a long and storied lineage.

Over the centuries, Sizergh Castle has undergone numerous transformations. A significant rebuilding campaign in the mid-1550s, led by Walter Strickland, transformed the medieval house into a fashionable Elizabethan residence. This period saw the addition of many of the castle’s most striking features, blending medieval fortifications with elegant Elizabethan design.

Today, Sizergh Castle is a National Trust property, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the history and lives of the Strickland family. The castle’s rich heritage is evident in its architecture, furnishings, and the many stories preserved through the generations.

National Trust Collections

The National Trust Collections at Sizergh Castle are a treasure trove of rare and unique items, offering a fascinating insight into the history and artistry of the past. Among the highlights is the Inlaid Chamber, renowned for its exquisite Elizabethan oak panelling. This room features some of the finest panelling ever made for an English country house. It was originally housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum before being returned to Sizergh in 1999.

The collection also includes extremely rare carved oak furniture from the Elizabethan period, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the era. Visitors can marvel at the richly carved overmantels and other decorative elements adorn the castle’s interiors.

In addition to the Elizabethan pieces, the collection features 18th-century Gillows furniture, including seat furniture commissioned by Charles Strickland. These items reflect the evolving tastes and styles of the Strickland family over the centuries.

Exploring the National Trust Collections at Sizergh Castle offers a unique opportunity to appreciate these remarkable items’ historical and artistic significance.

🌿 Wander Through the Gardens

Sizergh’s gardens are a horticultural delight, evolving over centuries to include:(National Trust)

• Limestone Rock Garden: The largest of its kind under National Trust care, showcasing vibrant acers that blaze with colour in autumn.
• Kitchen Garden & Orchard: Bursting with seasonal produce and apple blossoms in spring.
• Stumpery: Home to four National Collections of hardy ferns, offering a shaded, tranquil retreat.
• Mirror Lake & Dipping Pond: Serene spots where you might spot dragonflies, herons, or even a kingfisher.
• Fruit Wall: A beautifully designed feature that promotes biodiversity and provides fresh produce, enhancing the garden’s diverse offerings.

The gardens are designed with wildlife in mind, providing habitats for bees, birds, and amphibians.

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Estate

Beyond the formal gardens, the 1,600-acre estate offers:

• Woodland Walks: Trails leading to Helsington Church and Sizergh Fell offer panoramic views of the Lake District.
• Wild Play Trail: A natural play area with climbing walls, balance beams, and rope swings, perfect for children three and up.
• Bird Hide at Park End Moss: A peaceful spot for wildlife enthusiasts to observe wetland birds.
• Limestone Pasture: A diverse ecosystem within the estate featuring various habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, supporting various wildlife and plants.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Activities

Sizergh Castle is a haven for families, offering various activities for visitors of all ages. The wild play trail is a natural play area for children aged three and up, featuring a climbing wall, balance beams, rope swings, and stepping stones. This trail is perfect for family fun, allowing children to explore and challenge themselves in a safe and engaging environment.

For younger children, the castle offers a children’s trail that guides them through the estate’s beautiful gardens and historic house. This trail is designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration, making it a delightful experience for kids and parents alike.

With its peaceful gardens, buggy-friendly paths, and open spaces, Sizergh Castle is an ideal destination for a family day out. Whether you’re exploring the wild play trail or discovering the estate’s rich history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

🍽️ Dine & Shop

The on-site café serves hot meals, snacks, and drinks, often featuring produce from the estate’s working kitchen garden. Lunch is available until 2:30 PM, with cakes and refreshments served throughout the day. Adjacent to the café, the gift shop offers a selection of local products, home accessories, and plants.

♿ Accessibility

Sizergh is committed to being accessible to all visitors:

• Tramper Mobility Scooter: Available for hire to explore the gardens and estate paths.
• Accessible Facilities: Nine designated parking spaces, accessible toilets, and an induction loop at reception.
• Wheelchair Access: The ground floor of the house and shop, along with most garden paths, are wheelchair accessible and pram-friendly, with recommended routes available.
• Free Mobility Vehicle Hire: Wheelchairs and powered mobility vehicles can be hired free of charge from Visitor Reception.

🌍 Conservation Efforts

Sizergh Castle is deeply committed to conservation, focusing on protecting the estate’s natural habitats and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. The estate is a sanctuary for various species, including fritillary butterflies, bats, birds of prey, deer, and otters.

One of the estate’s standout features is its rock garden, the largest limestone rock garden under the care of the National Trust. This garden, along with the colourful herbaceous border, mirror lake, and apple orchard, showcases the estate’s dedication to preserving and enhancing its natural beauty.

The estate is also home to four National Collections of Hardy Ferns, highlighting its commitment to botanical conservation. The National Trust is also working on creating wetland habitats on the estate, a project supported by funding from Natural England and the Morecambe Bay Nature Improvement Area.

By visiting Sizergh Castle, you support these vital conservation efforts, helping protect and preserve this unique and special place for future generations to enjoy.

📅 Opening Times & Admission

Opening Times (as of 11 May 2025):

• House: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:15 PM)
• Garden & Shop: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Café: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Car Park: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Estate: Open from dawn to dusk

Admission Prices:

• House & Garden:
  • Adults: £14.00 (£15.40 with Gift Aid)
  • Children (5–17): £7.00 (£7.70 with Gift Aid)
  • Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £35.00 (£38.50 with Gift Aid)
• Garden Only:
  • Adults: £10.00 (£11.00 with Gift Aid)
  • Children (5–17): £5.00 (£5.50 with Gift Aid)
  • Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £25.00 (£27.50 with Gift Aid)

National Trust members enjoy free entry and parking. Non-members can pay for parking at the machine (coins only) or reception.

📍 Getting There

Address: Sizergh, near Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8DZ

Contact: 015395 60951 | [email protected]

By Public Transport: Sizergh is accessible via bus, and visitors arriving by bus receive a free regular hot drink upon showing their ticket.

The main car park is a great spot for observing local wildlife, particularly hawfinches, which are drawn to the hornbeam trees around the car park during springtime.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or seeking a family-friendly day out, Sizergh Castle and Gardens offers a rich and rewarding experience in the heart of the Lake District.