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.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
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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 - Townend
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lake District National Park Authority
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Aira Force Waterfall
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Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
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Levens Hall
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Scafell Pike
19.7 km
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The Westmorland Family
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Bowder Stone
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Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
21.3 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Honister Slate Mine
21.4 km
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Lodore Falls
21.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
Surprise View
21.7 km
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Ashness Bridge
22.1 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Westmorland County Showground
22.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Holehird Gardens
1.6 km
Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.
Zip World Windermere
2.1 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.
Brockhole on Windermere
2.2 km
Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
2.6 km
Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
3.0 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
Borrans Park
3.4 km
Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.
National Trust - Wray
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
3.5 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
Ambleside Roman Fort
3.6 km
Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
3.6 km
Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.
Ambleside Town Centre
3.7 km
Ambleside Town Centre: A vibrant market hub at Lake Windermere’s edge, blending heritage, nature, and local charm.
RockShop
3.8 km
Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.
White Platts Recreation Ground
3.8 km
A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.
Golden Rule
3.9 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.
Essential places to dine
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
2.1 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
2.2 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
The Gaddum
2.2 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
The Samling Hotel
2.3 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Lake Road Kitchen
3.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
3.7 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
3.7 km
Historic 16th-century setting serving hearty British and Cumbrian dishes with warm hospitality in the heart of Ambleside.
Lucy's on a plate
3.7 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
3.7 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
3.8 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Dodds Restaurant
3.9 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
Hooked Seafood
4.0 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
The Westmorland Inn
5.1 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Flying Pig Pub
5.3 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Magic Roundabout
5.3 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
3.7 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
3.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
5.2 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
5.2 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
5.3 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
LAKELAND Leather
5.3 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
5.3 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
5.3 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
5.4 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Love the Lakes Bowness
5.4 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Sainsbury's
13.9 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Elephant Yard Shopping
14.3 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
14.3 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Waterstones
14.3 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
14.3 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Queens Head, Troutbeck
1.6 km
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Lake District Cocktail Co.
2.5 km
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The Lily Bar
3.6 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Windermere Speakeasy
3.6 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Vault
3.7 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
3.7 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
3.7 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.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
3.7 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Albert
5.3 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Hole in t' Wall
5.3 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
5.3 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
5.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
The Easy Breeze
5.4 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
5.4 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
5.5 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
4.2 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
5.7 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
29.9 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
38.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
38.9 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
38.9 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
38.9 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
Secret Carlisle
53.2 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
53.5 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
53.8 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
53.8 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Settle Working Mens Club
56.4 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
The George Inn
57.1 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
63.5 km
Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.
Peek A Booze
66.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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