Levens Hall is an Elizabethan house and garden near Kendal, on the southern edge of the Lake District National Park. Its old topiary is the main draw: clipped into individual shapes, the figures include chess pieces and abstract forms, set among flowers and garden paths. Inside, you can see rooms from different periods, including Victorian rooms, painted leather wall coverings, furniture and household objects. Families can look for wooden mice hidden around the house. Leave time for the on-site bakery and restaurant, where you may find homemade cakes and freshly made bread.
The topiary garden
Levens Hall is known for its topiary garden, laid out in the late 17th century by Guillaume Beaumont. The clipped forms include abstract designs and chess pieces, among many individual shapes. Flowers grow between the topiary, and the garden has several sections to explore. A maze and a willow labyrinth are also part of the garden attractions.
The hall stands within a former medieval deer park, with parkland and woodland around it. The estate is just outside the southern boundary of the Lake District National Park, near Kendal. In summer, the gardens are at their best, so allow time to walk through them at an unhurried pace.
Rooms and details inside the hall
The house brings together rooms and objects from different periods. You can move through areas such as the dining room, bedrooms and bathroom, and see furniture, books and crockery. Victorian rooms and painted leather wall coverings are among the details to look out for. The house is still used by the family, and its rooms contain historic objects rather than presenting an empty sequence of interiors.
There are small details for children to spot, too. Wooden mice are hidden around the house, and a hunt sheet can turn the room-by-room visit into an activity. Ask about the saddle displayed on a wall if you would like to hear its story.
A break at the bakery and restaurant
The on-site bakery and restaurant give you a place to pause after exploring the house and grounds. Homemade cakes, including flapjack, are among the treats available, and you may see sourdough and other fresh bread being made. The food selection also includes pasta. Set aside time for a drink or a snack rather than trying to fit the gardens and house into a quick stop.
FAQ
How long should I allow for Levens Hall?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to see both the house and gardens. The house alone can take close to an hour.
What is Levens Hall best known for?
Its topiary garden, laid out in the late 17th century, is the main draw. The garden contains many individually clipped shapes, including abstract forms and chess pieces.
Is Levens Hall suitable for children?
Yes. Children can explore the gardens and look for wooden mice hidden around the house.
Is advance booking recommended?
Yes, getting tickets in advance is recommended.
