
Sizergh Castle and Garden
A 14th-century manor house with Elizabethan carvings, set in 1,600 acres of stunning gardens and woodlands.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Sizergh Castle and Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century manor house with Elizabethan carvings, set in 1,600 acres of stunning gardens and woodlands.
"A beautiful castle, so lovingly kept, with fantastic and knowledgeable staff."

☕ Cafe & Refreshments
The cafe offers cakes, brews, and hot meals. Arrive early for the best selection! :coffee:
🚶♀️ Explore the Estate
Don't miss the 1,600 acres of walks, woodlands, and views towards Morecambe Bay. :hiking_boot:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Medieval Manor House
Castle Interior
Explore a 14th-century home filled with Elizabethan carvings, furniture, and the stories of 26 generations of the Strickland family.

The Enchanting Gardens
Gardens
Wander through diverse garden areas, including a mirror lake, kitchen garden, apple orchard, and a limestone rock garden.

Woodland and Estate Walks
Grounds
Discover 1,600 acres of ancient woodland and farmland with walks offering views towards Morecambe Bay.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
The cafe offers cakes, brews, and hot meals. Arrive early for the best selection! :coffee:
🚶♀️ Explore the Estate
Don't miss the 1,600 acres of walks, woodlands, and views towards Morecambe Bay. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Parking Details
Car park charges apply, but it's free for National Trust members. :parking:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Enjoy mapped-out walks and the 'magical garden' that kids love. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
The cafe offers cakes, brews, and hot meals. Arrive early for the best selection! :coffee:
🚶♀️ Explore the Estate
Don't miss the 1,600 acres of walks, woodlands, and views towards Morecambe Bay. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Parking Details
Car park charges apply, but it's free for National Trust members. :parking:
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Enjoy mapped-out walks and the 'magical garden' that kids love. :child:
♿ Accessibility
A ramp was built for historical accessibility, and some areas are wheelchair-friendly. :wheelchair:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sizergh Castle and Garden for its beautiful house, immaculate displays, and stunning gardens, especially the area around the pond. The knowledgeable staff and the sense of history in the lived-in home are frequently highlighted. While the gardens might not be the largest, their charm and variety are highly appreciated. Some visitors note that the car park can get busy, and the selection at the cafe may be limited if arriving late.
"Fantastic place to visit. Great its still lived in by the owners who have owned it for centuries. A lovely cafe with devious food. Gardens very pretty showing autumn colour. The N/T volunteers were knowledgeable and friendly. Glad we chose this place to visit."
Raymond Lockwood (Ray)
"Great example of a lived in castle, of sorts. The exhibits art and written guides were excellent, as were the detailed explanations provided by the guides. Of a standout were the beautiful gardens which were resplendent in autumnal colours. The cafe was also a highlight with helpful active servers."
Darran Lowe
"An absolutely stunning gardens, growing all different varieties of apples trees to colorful flowers and a little place for the bees 🐝 and a cute placid cat that looked very proud of there garden. On Mondays the castle is closed although the gardens are open and the trail upto the hill top church has beautiful views of the vally and hills. Sizergh is well worth a visit if you get the chance! Oh and the National Trust cream tea with the fruit scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream go down a treat washed down was a hot chocolate or be traditional with a classic English tea. The farm shop is close by that had the most delicious smoked cheeses, I had to indulge with the sweet onion chutney and the little round crackers 😋 Thankyou"
Ryan McNamara
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sizergh Castle is conveniently located just off the M6 at Kendal, making it easily accessible by car. It's about 4 miles south of Kendal in Cumbria. For those relying on public transport, it's a good idea to check local bus routes from Kendal, though a car is generally recommended for exploring the wider Lake District area.
Yes, there is a car park available on site. Please note that car park charges apply, but parking is free for National Trust members. The car park also features an attractive picnic area.
While a car is the most convenient way to reach Sizergh Castle and explore the surrounding Lake District, it is possible to use public transport to get to Kendal and then potentially arrange local taxi services or check for specific bus routes that may stop nearby. However, many visitors find having a car essential for a comprehensive Lake District experience.
The nearest train station is Kendal, which is a short drive or bus ride from Sizergh Castle. From Kendal station, you can then arrange onward travel to the castle.
Absolutely! Sizergh Castle is well worth a detour if you're heading in that direction, offering a beautiful blend of history and nature just off the M6.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees apply for non-National Trust members. National Trust members can enjoy free entry and parking. It's always a good idea to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date pricing and opening times before your visit.
While advance booking is not always mandatory, it's recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific events, to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment. Check the National Trust website for booking information.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. The house and gardens typically have different opening times. It's best to consult the official National Trust Sizergh Castle page for the most accurate and current opening hours.
Yes, Sizergh Castle and its grounds are dog-friendly, with specific areas for walks. However, dogs may need to be kept on leads in certain areas, especially within the gardens and house. Always check the specific dog policy on arrival.
Yes, you can typically visit the gardens and grounds even if you choose not to tour the interior of the castle. Check the admission options available upon arrival or on the National Trust website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sizergh Castle offers a rich experience with its medieval manor house, filled with historical artifacts and stories of the Strickland family. The gardens are a major highlight, featuring a mirror lake, kitchen garden, and apple orchard. You can also explore 1,600 acres of estate walks with views towards Morecambe Bay.
While specific guided tours might not be advertised daily, the staff at Sizergh Castle are known to be fantastic and knowledgeable. Taking the time to watch the introductory video upon entering the house provides a great overview of the family history.
The gardens are described as stunning and impressive, with diverse areas including a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous borders, a working kitchen garden, and an apple orchard. Visitors appreciate the honesty and lack of pretension in their style and planting.
Sizergh Castle, being a National Trust property, often hosts seasonal events, such as Easter trails. It's advisable to check their events calendar on the National Trust website for any upcoming activities during your visit.
Sizergh Castle is a 14th-century manor house that has been lived in and passed down through 26 generations of the Strickland family. It features Elizabethan carvings and furniture, offering a glimpse into centuries of family history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at Sizergh Castle that serves cakes, brews, and hot meals. There's also a refreshments kiosk and an attractive picnic area.
The cafe offers a menu that includes cakes, beverages, and hot meals. While the selection might be limited if you arrive late, the menu is generally quite extensive.
Yes, there is a very attractive picnic area available for visitors. This is a great option if you prefer to bring your own food or if the cafe selection is limited.
Entrance to the castle is typically through the gift shop attached to the cafe, where you can likely find souvenirs related to the castle and the National Trust.
For additional dining options, you can explore the nearby village of Kendal or consider stops like Low Sizergh Barn mentioned in walking routes.
📸 📸 Photography
The mirror lake in the gardens offers beautiful reflections, especially on a calm day. The autumnal colours are also a photographer's delight. Don't forget to capture the historic architecture of the castle itself and the scenic views from the estate walks.
Photography rules inside historic houses can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask a member of staff upon entry. Often, non-flash photography is permitted in certain areas.
Sizergh Castle is ideal for landscape photography in its gardens and estate, architectural photography of the historic building, and capturing seasonal beauty, particularly in autumn.
As a National Trust property, drone usage is generally restricted to protect the wildlife, heritage, and visitor experience. It's essential to check the National Trust's specific drone policy before flying any drone in the vicinity.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for the gardens and exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded areas of the gardens and the interior of the house can still be photographed effectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic area, which can be a more relaxed option with younger children. While some trails might not be specifically Easter-themed, the general exploration of the gardens and estate provides ample entertainment. Remember to check for any seasonal family events or trails that the National Trust might be running during your visit.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
Instagram Reel I4 even outlines a specific route combining Kendal, Scout Scar, Brigsteer, and Sizergh Castle, highlighting refreshment stops along the way. This suggests Sizergh is well-integrated into local walking networks, making it a perfect stop for a longer hike or a dedicated day out for walkers.
🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
Even outside the formal gardens, the 1,600-acre estate offers a rich natural landscape to explore. The autumnal colours are particularly noted as a beautiful time to visit for garden photography and appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strickland Family Legacy
As you wander through the castle, you'll encounter Elizabethan carvings and furniture that speak to different eras of the family's life and influence. The house has been extended and developed throughout its long history, reflecting the changing needs and tastes of its inhabitants. This continuous occupation means Sizergh offers a unique, authentic glimpse into the lives of a prominent family over centuries, rather than a static museum piece.
One particularly touching story is that of Cecilia Strickland, who lived at Sizergh in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. She used an early form of a wheelchair, which she called a 'chariot,' and had a ramp built into the grounds so she could continue to enjoy the gardens. This detail highlights the personal history and adaptations made within the estate, adding another layer of human connection to the visit.
Exploring the Diverse Gardens and Grounds
Beyond the immediate gardens, Sizergh boasts an expansive estate of 1,600 acres, featuring ancient woodlands and open farmland. Several mapped-out walks are available, allowing visitors to explore these grounds and enjoy beautiful views, including vistas stretching towards Morecambe Bay. These walks provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the Lake District surroundings.
While the gardens may not be the largest or most grandiose encountered, their 'honesty and lack of pretension' are frequently appreciated, while still remaining impressive in style and planting choices. The Japanese garden and terrace have some restricted areas, but the mown orchard is a particular favourite for many.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at Sizergh
For wheelchair users, certain areas of the gardens and grounds are navigable, and the estate offers a ramped access point, a legacy from Cecilia's time. The National Trust generally strives to provide information on accessibility for each of its properties, and it's advisable to check their official website for detailed access statements for Sizergh Castle, which often include information on pathways, gradients, and available facilities like accessible toilets.
Beyond physical accessibility, the staff's knowledge and the availability of resources like the introductory video contribute to a richer experience for all visitors, ensuring that the history and beauty of Sizergh Castle can be appreciated by a wide audience.




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