Sizergh Castle and Garden
1 / 10

Sizergh Castle and Garden

4.6
·5k reviews·Sizergh, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sizergh Castle and Garden

Sizergh Castle and Garden

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(5k reviews)

"A beautiful castle, so lovingly kept, with fantastic and knowledgeable staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Medieval Manor House

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

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

Woodland and Estate Walks

Grounds

Discover 1,600 acres of ancient woodland and farmland with walks offering views towards Morecambe Bay.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Sizergh Castle and Garden is a popular National Trust site. To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekdays outside of school holidays. Arriving early or later in the afternoon can also help you enjoy the gardens and house with more tranquility. Consider checking their events calendar for special activities.

Making the Most of Your Day

Sizergh Castle offers more than just the house; its extensive grounds are a major draw. Plan for at least a few hours to explore the gardens, woodlands, and enjoy the scenic walks. Don't forget comfortable shoes for navigating the estate and potentially the mapped-out walks.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Summer
Why
Gardens in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful autumnal colours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

National trust destination number one #stourhead #wiltshire #fyp
@joshh868
151.9K likes • 1.1M views

☕ 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:

Replying to @khuloodz123 2,500 acres to explore 🥰 #stourhead #nationaltrustuk #england #travelengland #wiltshire #westcountry #englishcountryside #exploreengland
@shewillbewandering
80.9K likes • 548.1K views
Sizergh Castle 🏰 ⠀ National Trust 🍁 ⠀ 📍Kendal ⠀ ⠀ We stopped off here on our trip to the Lakes for a little break and it was lovely! 🥰 ⠀ ⠀ Garden 🪴 ⠀ Rich gardens including a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous border, working kitchen garden, apple orchard and limestone rock garden.⠀ ⠀ House 🏠 ⠀ Medieval manor filled with items collected by 26 generations of the Strickland family, including the inte...
bossdaysout
118 likes • 654 views

🚗 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:

Sunny days at Sizergh 🏰 ☀️ Sizergh Castle is set in a 1,600 acre estate with ancient woodland, farmland, wildlife, flowers and plenty more including: 🌿 Rich gardens with a mirror lake, working kitchen garden, and apple orchard 🏰 Medieval manor house highlighting the story of the Strickland family 🍰 Cafe serving cakes, brews, and hot meals 🌸 Wild play area for kids to enjoy 📚 Second hand book sh...
lakedistrictcumbria
394 likes • 11.5K views

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

4.6
(5k reviews)

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

Beautiful house and gardens
Knowledgeable staff
Sense of history

What People Dislike

Cafe selection late
Car park busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sizergh Castle is conveniently located just off the M6 at Kendal, making it easily accessible by car.Instagram It's about 4 miles south of Kendal in Cumbria.Instagram 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.TikTok

Yes, there is a car park available on site. Please note that car park charges apply, but parking is free for National Trust members.Reddit 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.TikTok

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.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees apply for non-National Trust members. National Trust members can enjoy free entry and parking.Reddit 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.Instagram+1 The gardens are a major highlight, featuring a mirror lake, kitchen garden, and apple orchard.Instagram+1 You can also explore 1,600 acres of estate walks with views towards Morecambe Bay.Instagram

While specific guided tours might not be advertised daily, the staff at Sizergh Castle are known to be fantastic and knowledgeable.Reddit Taking the time to watch the introductory video upon entering the house provides a great overview of the family history.Reddit

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.Instagram+1 Visitors appreciate the honesty and lack of pretension in their style and planting.Reddit

Sizergh Castle, being a National Trust property, often hosts seasonal events, such as Easter trails.Instagram 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.InstagramReddit 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.InstagramReddit There's also a refreshments kiosk and an attractive picnic area.

The cafe offers a menu that includes cakes, beverages, and hot meals.Instagram While the selection might be limited if you arrive late,Reddit the menu is generally quite extensive.

Yes, there is a very attractive picnic area available for visitors.Reddit 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,Reddit 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.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The mirror lake in the gardens offers beautiful reflections, especially on a calm day.Instagram The autumnal colours are also a photographer's delight.Instagram Don't forget to capture the historic architecture of the castle itself and the scenic views from the estate walks.Instagram

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.Instagram

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

Sizergh Castle and Garden is a fantastic destination for families. Children often love the 'magical garden' and the expansive grounds offer plenty of space to run around and explore.Instagram The mapped-out walks are great for family adventures, and the castle itself, with its long history and stories of the Strickland family, can spark young imaginations.Reddit

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

For those who love to walk, Sizergh Castle offers a superb starting point or destination. The estate extends over 1,600 acres, providing numerous opportunities for exploration.Instagram You can follow mapped-out walks that take you through ancient woodlands and farmland, offering beautiful countryside views, including panoramas of Morecambe Bay.Reddit

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

Garden lovers will find much to admire at Sizergh Castle. The diverse gardens feature a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous borders, a working kitchen garden, and an apple orchard.Instagram+1 The limestone rock garden adds another unique horticultural element. Visitors often comment on the impressive planting and the thoughtful design of the various garden areas.Reddit

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.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Strickland Family Legacy

Sizergh Castle is not just a building; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of the Strickland family, who have lived here for over 700 years and 26 generations.Instagram This is a rare example of a historic house that remains a lived-in home, and this history is palpable as you explore its rooms.Reddit The introductory video upon entering the house provides a comprehensive overview of the family's long and fascinating history, making the visit much more engaging.Reddit

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.Reddit 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.Instagram 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

The gardens at Sizergh Castle are a significant draw, offering a variety of landscapes and planting styles that appeal to nature lovers and casual visitors alike.Instagram+1 Visitors often praise the 'magical garden' that children particularly enjoy.Instagram Key features include a serene mirror lake, vibrant herbaceous borders, a productive working kitchen garden, and a charming apple orchard.Instagram+1 The limestone rock garden adds another distinct element to the horticultural experience.

Beyond the immediate gardens, Sizergh boasts an expansive estate of 1,600 acres, featuring ancient woodlands and open farmland.Instagram+1 Several mapped-out walks are available, allowing visitors to explore these grounds and enjoy beautiful views, including vistas stretching towards Morecambe Bay.Reddit 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.Reddit The Japanese garden and terrace have some restricted areas,Instagram but the mown orchard is a particular favourite for many.Instagram

Accessibility and Inclusivity at Sizergh

Sizergh Castle has a commendable history of adapting to the needs of its visitors, notably with the story of Cecilia Strickland and her custom-built 'chariot'.Instagram This historical commitment to accessibility is reflected in modern efforts to make the site more inclusive. While the historic nature of the castle means not all areas are fully accessible, significant steps have been taken to improve the visitor experience for those with mobility challenges.

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.Instagram+1 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.Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2