Hill Top: Beatrix Potter's Beloved Lake District Home
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.
Hill Top, the cherished former home of Beatrix Potter near Sawrey in the Lake District, is a beautifully preserved 17th-century farmhouse filled with the author’s personal belongings and inspirations for her beloved children's tales. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors a glimpse into Potter’s life and creative world, set amidst enchanting gardens and scenic countryside.
A brief summary to National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
- Ambleside, Near Sawrey, LA22 0LF, GB
- +441539436269
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your timed entry tickets online well in advance to guarantee access, as slots fill quickly.
- Visit in the afternoon after 2:30 PM for fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
- Dogs are welcome on leads in the garden but not inside the house.
- Consider parking in Hawkshead and taking public transport to avoid limited parking at Hill Top.
- Explore the National Trust shop for unique Beatrix Potter gifts and support conservation efforts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Drive approximately 6 miles from Ambleside via the narrow B5286 and B5285 roads, allowing extra time for parking during peak periods. Limited parking is available at Hill Top, so arriving close to your booked time is advised. Parking in Hawkshead with onward bus connections is recommended to avoid congestion.
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By Bus and Ferry
From Windermere or Bowness, take a ferry across the lake, then use the seasonal 525 bus service (operating April to October) from Ferry House to Hill Top. Regular bus services also run from Ambleside and Coniston, providing convenient public transport access.
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Walking
Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk from the nearby village of Near Sawrey, with gentle terrain suitable for most walkers. Note that some uneven surfaces and steps exist within the garden and house.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
A Glimpse into Beatrix Potter’s Creative Sanctuary
Hill Top, purchased by Beatrix Potter in 1905 with the proceeds from her first successful book, stands as a time capsule of her life and work. The 17th-century farmhouse remains largely unchanged since her residence, filled with her treasured belongings and original furnishings. Each room reveals references to her famous tales, allowing visitors to connect the stories with the very settings and objects that inspired them. From the rhubarb patch where Jemima Puddle-Duck laid her egg to the garden where Tom Kitten and his siblings played, the house is a vivid narrative of Potter’s imagination brought to life.The Enchanting Garden and Surrounding Countryside
The garden at Hill Top is lovingly restored to reflect the style and planting of Potter’s time, combining informal flower beds with vegetable patches in the traditional English cottage-garden manner. Visitors can wander through this charming outdoor space, which also welcomes dogs on leads, offering a tranquil setting that complements the stories. The surrounding Lake District landscape, with its rolling hills and pastoral views, further inspired Potter’s work and continues to enchant visitors with its timeless beauty.Preservation and Public Access
Hill Top is managed by the National Trust, which carefully preserves the house and garden to maintain their historic integrity. The property is closed during winter months for conservation, reopening annually around mid-February. Entry requires advance booking with timed tickets to manage visitor numbers and protect the delicate interiors. The small car park near the site has limited capacity, encouraging visitors to consider public transport options or parking in nearby Hawkshead. The National Trust shop on-site offers a range of Beatrix Potter-themed gifts, books, and soft toys, supporting ongoing preservation efforts.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The visit typically lasts between one and two hours, allowing time to explore the house, garden, and shop. A pop-up café in the orchard serves hot and cold drinks and snacks seasonally. While the house has some steps and uneven surfaces, level access is provided to the ground floor, with accessible parking available upon request. The attraction is family-friendly, with activities such as a hidden mice quest in the house that delight younger visitors. The peaceful ambiance and rich storytelling make it a memorable experience for all ages.Local Context and Cultural Significance
Hill Top not only celebrates Beatrix Potter’s literary legacy but also highlights her deep connection to the Lake District’s cultural heritage. By bequeathing the property to the National Trust, Potter ensured the protection of this special place for future generations. The nearby village of Hawkshead and other Lake District attractions complement a visit to Hill Top, offering a broader exploration of the region’s history, literature, and natural beauty.Planning Your Visit
Advance booking is essential to guarantee entry, with tickets released every Thursday for the following two weeks. National Trust members enjoy free entry but still require pre-booking. The house is closed on Fridays during term time and throughout winter months. Visitors are advised to consider quieter afternoon time slots for a more intimate experience. Public transport options include buses from Ambleside, Coniston, and seasonal ferry connections, providing alternatives to the limited parking at the site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lake District National Park Authority
16.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
16.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Levens Hall
16.3 km
Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
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
19.0 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
19.3 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Westmorland County Showground
19.8 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
19.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Eskdale Mill
20.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
20.1 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Honister Slate Mine
23.0 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Bowder Stone
23.8 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
0.1 km
Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
1.9 km
Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.
Lake District
3.1 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Blackwell
3.3 km
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.
Latterbarrow
3.5 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
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.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
3.7 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.
Grizedale
4.0 km
Explore Grizedale Forest’s blend of stunning Lake District scenery, captivating outdoor art, and thrilling outdoor adventures for all ages.
Windermere
4.3 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
4.7 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.
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.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
5.8 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
Essential places to dine
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
3.0 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
3.3 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
3.5 km
Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.
The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel
3.5 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
The Magic Roundabout
3.6 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
3.6 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
3.6 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Flying Pig Pub
3.6 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
Henrock
3.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
The Westmorland Inn
3.9 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hooked Seafood
5.0 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
5.2 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
5.3 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
3.6 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Tesco Express
3.6 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
3.6 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Lonsdale Galleries
3.7 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
3.7 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
LAKELAND Leather
3.7 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
3.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
3.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
5.3 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Elephant Yard Shopping
14.7 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
14.8 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
14.8 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Ryman Stationery
14.8 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
14.8 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boaters Bar
3.0 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
3.0 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
3.0 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Lake View Bowness
3.2 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Easy Breeze
3.5 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
3.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Arts Bar
3.6 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hole in t' Wall
3.6 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
3.6 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Fizzy Tarté
3.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
The Albert
3.6 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
5.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
5.2 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
5.2 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
5.2 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
3.0 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
4.8 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
58.1 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
59.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
