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Townend: The Historic Browne Family Farmhouse in Troutbeck Valley

Step back into 400 years of Lake District family life at Townend, a charming farmhouse with unique books, carved furniture, and tranquil gardens.

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Townend is a remarkably preserved 17th-century Lake District farmhouse nestled in the Troutbeck Valley near Windermere. Once home to the Browne family for over 400 years, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into rural family life with original furniture, an extraordinary library of rare books, and a charming cottage garden. Managed by the National Trust, Townend combines rich history, artisan woodcarving, and peaceful natural surroundings for an intimate cultural experience.

A brief summary to National Trust - Townend

  • Holbeck Ln, Windermere, Troutbeck, LA23 1LB, GB
  • +441539432628
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Book guided tours in advance, especially on Thursdays, to experience in-depth stories and demonstrations of historic recipes.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the walk from the car park and exploring the garden involves some uneven terrain.
  • Bring your own food and drinks since there is no café or refreshment facilities on site.
  • Be mindful that the house has limited wheelchair access and prams must be left in the courtyard.
  • Visit the cottage garden in late spring or summer to enjoy the vibrant blooms planted by George Browne.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    Take the Stagecoach bus service from Windermere town center to Troutbeck village, which runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a 15-minute walk to Townend along rural lanes. Tickets cost around £3-5 GBP one way.

  • Car

    Driving from Windermere, allow 10-15 minutes via local roads to reach Townend. Parking is available in a small National Trust car park near the property with limited spaces and designated mobility spots. Note that roads are narrow and coach access is not possible. Parking is free for National Trust members; others pay a small fee.

  • Train and Walk

    Arrive by train at Windermere station, approximately 3 miles from Townend. From there, take a taxi (10-15 minutes, £10-15 GBP) or combine with the local bus service. Walking from Windermere station is possible but involves a 1-hour walk on country roads.

National Trust - Townend location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Window into Centuries of Family Life

Townend stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Browne family, who lived here for more than four centuries. This traditional Lake District stone and slate farmhouse retains much of its original character and domestic charm, inviting visitors to step back in time. The house is filled with original furniture, many pieces intricately carved by George Browne, the last family resident, whose craftsmanship and whimsical designs add a distinctive personality to the interiors. The kitchen welcomes you with a real fire and a collection of historic domestic tools, setting the tone for an authentic rural experience.

The Unique Browne Family Library

One of Townend’s most remarkable features is its library, housing the Browne family’s collection of books, including 45 titles that are the only known copies in the world. Many are chapbooks—small, cheaply produced booklets once sold door-to-door—offering insights into 17th-century life, from farming and cooking to gardening and recreation. This archive is a rare cultural treasure, reflecting the everyday knowledge and interests of a rural family across generations, and is considered unique in Europe.

George Browne’s Artistic Legacy and Garden

George Browne (1834–1914) was not only a farmer but also a passionate woodcarver and gardener. His artistic influence is evident throughout the house in the carved furniture and decorative details, including playful motifs like smiling faces and mermaids. His garden diary reveals a meticulous gardener who cultivated a variety of flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees. The cottage garden today remains small but beautifully maintained, featuring many of the plants George cherished, such as phlox, sweet peas, and roses, providing a tranquil outdoor space that complements the historic farmhouse.

Living History and Community Connection

Townend is more than a static museum; it is a living history site where visitors can engage with the past through guided tours and special events. The National Trust offers themed tours focusing on the family’s social history, crafts, and culinary heritage, including demonstrations of 17th-century recipes from the Browne family cookbook. The farmhouse’s preserved atmosphere and knowledgeable guides bring the stories of the Brownes and rural Lake District life vividly to life.

The Surrounding Troutbeck Valley and Heritage

Situated in the picturesque Troutbeck Valley, Townend is part of a unique village landscape composed of small hamlets with vernacular architecture. Nearby, visitors can explore the village’s historic church with stained-glass windows by William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones, as well as enjoy scenic walks through the valley. The adjacent bank barn, one of the earliest in Cumbria and still in agricultural use, offers a glimpse into the region’s farming heritage, visible from the garden but not open to the public.

Visitor Experience and Practical Information

Townend offers a peaceful, intimate visit without the distractions of commercial facilities—there is no on-site café or gift shop, encouraging guests to focus on the house, garden, and surroundings. The site is accessible Tuesday to Friday during the main season, with guided tours enhancing the experience. While the house has limited wheelchair access due to historic architecture and steps, the garden and grounds provide a serene setting for all visitors. The National Trust continues to care for Townend, preserving its rich heritage for future generations to explore and enjoy.

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