Hill Top: Beatrix Potter's Lake District Farmhouse

Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.

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National Trust - Hill Top

Step into the intimate world of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top, her cherished farmhouse in the English Lake District. This beautifully preserved cottage, filled with Potter's original belongings and furnishings, inspired many of her beloved children's tales. The restored garden—featuring the vegetable plot and flower beds depicted in her illustrations—offers a tangible connection to the author's creative vision. Managed by the National Trust, Hill Top remains a working farm, adding authentic rural character to this literary pilgrimage site.

A brief summary to National Trust - Hill Top

Ambleside, Near Sawrey, LA22 0LF, GB
+441539436269
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book your timed entry ticket online well in advance—slots release every Thursday for the following two weeks. Walk-ups are accepted only if capacity permits, but advance booking guarantees entry.
Visit in the afternoon after 2:30 PM for a quieter, more intimate experience. Early morning and midday slots tend to be busier, especially during peak season.
The car park is small with limited capacity. Do not arrive before your booked time slot, as you may not find parking and will be asked to return at your scheduled time.
Consider arriving car-free: take the Windermere ferry from Bowness to Ash Landing, then the 525 Mountain Goat bus to Hill Top. A combined boat, bus, and entry ticket is available from late May.
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. The house is small but densely packed with detail; the garden adds peaceful exploration time. Dogs are welcome in the garden but not inside the house.

Getting There

By Car from Ambleside

From Ambleside town centre, follow the B5286 and B5285 roads south toward Near Sawrey, a journey of approximately 6 miles taking 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. You must pre-book your timed entry ticket online before arriving, as the car park is small with limited capacity and does not guarantee parking even with a ticket. Arrive only at your booked time slot. Parking is free for National Trust members and included with non-member entry tickets.
By Car from Coniston

From Coniston, take the B5285 road north toward Near Sawrey, approximately 7 miles and 20–25 minutes. As with all car visits, advance online booking of your timed entry ticket is mandatory. The car park has very limited spaces; do not arrive early as you will not be accommodated before your scheduled slot.
By Ferry and Bus (Car-Free)

From Bowness-on-Windermere, take the Windermere Lake Cruises ferry across the lake to Ash Landing jetty (approximately 15–20 minutes). From the jetty, board the 525 Mountain Goat bus service to Near Sawrey (approximately 10–15 minutes). From late May onwards, a combined boat, bus, and Hill Top entry ticket is available, simplifying the journey. This option avoids car park stress and offers scenic travel. Book your combined ticket through Windermere Lake Cruises website.
Walking from Near Sawrey Village

If you park in the village of Near Sawrey (limited street parking available), Hill Top is accessible via a 10–15 minute walk along the village road. The route follows a busy road with limited pavement in places, so care is needed, especially with young children. This option works best if you arrive outside peak times when village parking may be easier than the Hill Top car park.

National Trust - Hill Top location weather suitability

Mild Temperatures
Clear Skies

Discover more about National Trust - Hill Top

The House That Inspired a Literary Legacy

Hill Top is the farmhouse where Beatrix Potter created some of the world's most cherished children's stories. This modest 17th-century cottage, located in the village of Near Sawrey, became Potter's sanctuary, studio, and home from 1905 until her death in 1943. The house remains precisely as she left it—filled with her personal possessions, furniture, and treasured objects that directly inspired scenes in her famous tales. Walking through its small, intimate rooms feels like stepping into the pages of The Tale of Peter Rabbit or The Tale of Tom Kitten, as visitors can match illustrations from her books with the actual rooms and objects that sparked her imagination.

A Garden Restored to Potter's Vision

The garden at Hill Top was meticulously restored by the National Trust using Potter's own letters, photographs, diary entries, and detailed drawings as guides. The result is a living recreation of how the garden appeared during her lifetime. Visitors encounter the informal flower beds along the famous path, the formal vegetable garden enclosed by a red-brick wall, and heritage plants including the original apple tree and wisteria that Potter herself planted. The garden bursts with seasonal colour—azaleas, lilacs, violets, Welsh poppies, and aquilegias—while the vegetable patch produces traditional crops like pumpkins, rhubarb, carrots, and lettuce, maintaining the productive character Potter valued.

Potter's Conservation Legacy and the Working Farm

When Beatrix Potter died in 1943, she bequeathed Hill Top farm—along with 15 additional farms, cottages, 4,000 acres of land, and flocks of pedigree Herdwick sheep—to the National Trust. This extraordinary gift transformed her private retreat into a public trust for future generations. Today, the farm remains fully operational across its 250 acres, managed by the Dixon family who have farmed the land for over 35 years. The working farm is integral to Hill Top's character; visitors encounter farm vehicles, working sheepdogs, cattle, and sheep in the surrounding landscape, preserving the rural authenticity that Potter cherished and that inspired her art.

Intimate Spaces, Carefully Curated Experiences

The house itself is deliberately small, with compact rooms that limit visitor numbers to ensure a comfortable, unhurried experience. The National Trust has installed state-of-the-art lighting controlled by visitors, allowing each room to be individually spotlit and appreciated. New interactive elements include animations of Beatrix's beloved mice characters and a replica dolls' house from The Tale of Two Bad Mice. The Scullery features a display tracing Potter's transformation from Lake District tourist to countryside protector, celebrating her pioneering conservation work. A gift shop offers Beatrix Potter-inspired merchandise, and a small outdoor café provides refreshments in the garden setting.

Visiting in Quieter Moments

Because Hill Top is exceptionally popular and the house is small, the National Trust recommends visiting in the afternoon after 2:30 PM, when crowds tend to thin and the experience becomes more intimate and contemplative. The house is closed during winter months (typically November through mid-February) as it has no central heating and retains its original single-glazed windows—a deliberate choice to preserve the property as Potter knew it. The car park is deliberately small with limited capacity, reinforcing the site's commitment to managing visitor numbers and protecting the authentic character of this special place.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lake District National Park Authority

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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Levens Hall

16.2 km

Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.

16.3 km

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.

Sir John Barrow Monument

18.1 km

Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.

Holker Hall & Gardens

18.2 km

Explore the stunning Holker Hall & Gardens, a perfect blend of nature and history, offering visitors a captivating experience in Grange-over-Sands.

Start Of Cumbria Way

19.1 km

Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.

Scafell Pike

19.4 km

England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.

Westmorland County Showground

19.7 km

Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

20.0 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.

Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse

20.0 km

Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.

Eskdale Mill

20.2 km

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.

Honister Slate Mine

23.1 km

Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.

Bowder Stone

23.9 km

Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Leighton Hall Estate

24.5 km

Discover the charm and history of Leighton Hall Estate, a captivating destination in Carnforth featuring stunning gardens and rich heritage.

Aira Force Waterfall

25.1 km

Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.

Unmissable attractions to see

National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House

0.1 km

Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Lake District home, where her stories and inspirations come vividly to life in a timeless 17th-century farmhouse and garden.

National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House

National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore

1.7 km

Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.

National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore

Lake District

3.0 km

Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.

Blackwell

3.1 km

Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.

Latterbarrow

3.6 km

A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.

World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop

3.6 km

Step into the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales in the heart of the Lake District with immersive exhibits and a charming garden.

Go Ape Grizedale

3.7 km

Experience thrilling treetop adventures and soaring zip lines in the heart of Grizedale Forest, Lake District’s premier outdoor activity hub.

Grizedale

4.1 km

Explore Grizedale Forest’s blend of stunning Lake District scenery, captivating outdoor art, and thrilling outdoor adventures for all ages.

Windermere

4.2 km

Explore Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, where stunning landscapes, vibrant villages, and rich heritage create an unforgettable Lake District experience.

Queen Adelaide's Hill

4.6 km

Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

5.2 km

Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.

National Trust - Wray

5.4 km

Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.

National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck

5.5 km

Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.

National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck

Orrest Head Viewpoint

5.7 km

A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.

Brockhole on Windermere

5.8 km

Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.

Essential places to dine

Boardwalk Bar and Grill

2.9 km

Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.

The Ryebeck Hotel

3.2 km

Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.

Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music

3.4 km

Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.

Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music

The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel

3.4 km

Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.

The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel

The Magic Roundabout

3.5 km

A vibrant café and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere offering diverse British cuisine, inclusive menus, and a lively atmosphere from morning to late night.

Porto Restaurant

3.5 km

Experience modern British cuisine with locally sourced flavors in a warm, inviting setting just steps from Lake Windermere.

BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music

3.5 km

Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music

The Flying Pig Pub

3.6 km

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Henrock

3.6 km

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The Westmorland Inn

3.8 km

Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Hooked Seafood

4.9 km

Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

5.1 km

A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

5.1 km

Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.

The Brown Horse Inn

5.2 km

A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.

The Gaddum

5.7 km

Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mountain Warehouse

3.5 km

Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.

Tesco Express

3.5 km

Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.

Love the Lakes Bowness

3.5 km

Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.

Lonsdale Galleries

3.6 km

Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Herdy Bowness

3.6 km

Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.

LAKELAND Leather

3.6 km

Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.

The Original Man Shop

3.7 km

A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Pretty Things

3.7 km

Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Forget Me Not

5.0 km

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.

Booths, Windermere

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Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.

Elephant Yard Shopping

14.6 km

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Waterstones

14.6 km

Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.

Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal

14.7 km

Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.

Ryman Stationery

14.7 km

Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.

Kendal Indoor market

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Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.

Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.

The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Wheelhouse Nightclub

2.9 km

Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.

Windermere Social Club

4.7 km

A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.

The Lounge C9

31.3 km

Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.

Manhattans Nightclub

31.3 km

Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.

Hollywood Nightclub

31.3 km

Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.

The loose moose

37.4 km

A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.

secret bridge

45.7 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.

The George Inn

58.0 km

Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Peek A Booze

59.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.

Funny Girls

59.2 km

Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.

Sanuk Nightclub

59.3 km

Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.

Garlands

59.3 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Garlands, Blackpool's premier gay bar and night club, filled with music, dance, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Club underground

59.4 km

Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.

Soul Suite

59.4 km

Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.

Popworld - Blackpool

59.5 km

Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.

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Hill Top: Beatrix Potter's Lake District Farmhouse

A brief summary to National Trust - Hill Top

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

By Car from Ambleside

By Car from Coniston

By Ferry and Bus (Car-Free)

Walking from Near Sawrey Village

National Trust - Hill Top location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of National Trust - Hill Top

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about National Trust - Hill Top

The House That Inspired a Literary Legacy

A Garden Restored to Potter's Vision

Potter's Conservation Legacy and the Working Farm

Intimate Spaces, Carefully Curated Experiences

Visiting in Quieter Moments

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lake District National Park Authority

Levens Hall

Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.

Sir John Barrow Monument

Holker Hall & Gardens

Start Of Cumbria Way

Scafell Pike

Westmorland County Showground

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse

Eskdale Mill

Honister Slate Mine

Bowder Stone

Leighton Hall Estate

Aira Force Waterfall

Unmissable attractions to see

National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House

National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore

Lake District

Blackwell

Latterbarrow

World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop

Go Ape Grizedale

Grizedale

Windermere

Queen Adelaide's Hill

The Lamplighter Dining Rooms

National Trust - Wray

National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck

Orrest Head Viewpoint

Brockhole on Windermere

Essential places to dine

Boardwalk Bar and Grill

The Ryebeck Hotel

Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music

The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel

The Magic Roundabout

Porto Restaurant

BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music

The Flying Pig Pub

Henrock

The Westmorland Inn

Hooked Seafood

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

The Brown Horse Inn

The Gaddum

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mountain Warehouse

Tesco Express

Love the Lakes Bowness

Lonsdale Galleries

Herdy Bowness

LAKELAND Leather

The Original Man Shop

Pretty Things

Forget Me Not

Booths, Windermere

Elephant Yard Shopping