Blackwell: The Arts & Crafts House Overlooking Lake Windermere
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house with breathtaking Lake Windermere views and exquisite handcrafted interiors.
Blackwell is a Grade I listed Arts and Crafts house near Bowness-on-Windermere, designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott and completed in 1900. Built as a holiday home for Sir Edward Holt, a Manchester brewery owner, it exemplifies craftsmanship, simplicity, and harmony with nature. The house features exquisite original interiors, decorative details, and gardens designed by Thomas Mawson, all offering stunning views over Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells.
A brief summary to Blackwell
- Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JT, GB
- +441539446139
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- 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
- Visit the White Drawing Room for panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells.
- Take time to admire the intricate original craftsmanship, including stained glass, carved wood, and metalwork.
- Explore the exhibitions on the Arts and Crafts movement and Blackwell’s history as a wartime school.
- Enjoy the garden terraces designed by Thomas Mawson, especially in spring and summer when flowers bloom.
- Check for temporary contemporary art exhibitions that complement the historic setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Windermere town center to Bowness-on-Windermere, then a local taxi or a 25-minute walk to Blackwell. Bus journeys typically take 15-20 minutes with fares around £3-£5.
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Car
Drive from Windermere via the A592, allowing 10-15 minutes. Limited on-site parking is available; parking nearby may require a short walk. No charge for parking at Blackwell.
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Taxi
Local taxi services from Windermere or Bowness take about 10 minutes. Expect fares in the £8-£12 range depending on time of day and traffic.
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Walking
From Bowness-on-Windermere, a scenic 30-minute walk on country lanes with moderate terrain leads to Blackwell. Suitable for those comfortable with uneven paths and slight inclines.
Blackwell 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 Blackwell
A Masterpiece of Arts & Crafts Architecture
Blackwell stands as one of England's most significant early 20th-century Arts and Crafts houses. Designed by architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott between 1897 and 1900, it was commissioned as a rural holiday retreat for Sir Edward Holt, a wealthy Manchester brewery owner, and his family. Baillie Scott embraced the movement’s ideals by prioritizing handcrafted details, natural materials, and functional yet elegant design. The house’s exterior, with its whitewashed roughcast walls and steep slate roofs, reflects local vernacular architecture, blending seamlessly into the Lake District landscape without competing with the panoramic views.Innovative Interior Design and Craftsmanship
Inside, Blackwell reveals Baillie Scott’s vision of open, adaptable spaces filled with natural light. The central hall, inspired by medieval great halls, features wooden beams, an inglenook fireplace, and a minstrel’s gallery, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Original decorative elements abound, including carved oak paneling, stained glass, intricate plasterwork, and bespoke metalwork. The furniture and fittings, many designed by Baillie Scott himself and other leading Arts and Crafts makers like William Morris and Archibald Knox, complement the architecture, emphasizing harmony between form and function.A Rich Historical Tapestry
During World War II, Blackwell served as a school for evacuated junior girls from Huyton College, Liverpool, under the creative leadership of headmistress Miss Murphy. The pupils’ experiences, including skating on a flooded courtyard, are commemorated in exhibitions within the house. After decades of varied use, including office space, Blackwell was restored between 2000 and 2001 by Lakeland Arts Trust to preserve its architectural integrity and open it to the public as a cultural venue.Gardens Designed to Complement the House
The surrounding gardens were originally laid out in 1902 by renowned Arts and Crafts garden designer Thomas Mawson. They feature a series of terraces with flower beds, herbs, and York stone paving that create sun traps and sheltered seating areas. Although some original landscaping has been lost, the gardens maintain a strong connection to the natural beauty of the Lake District, framing views across Lake Windermere and the Coniston Fells.Contemporary Cultural Space
Today, Blackwell hosts a range of exhibitions showcasing both historic Arts and Crafts works and contemporary art, including ceramics, textiles, and sculpture. Visitors can explore period rooms, learn about the movement’s history, and appreciate the house’s role as a retreat designed to bring the outdoors inside. The recently reimagined master bedroom exemplifies Baillie Scott’s style and attention to detail.Enduring Legacy and Visitor Experience
Blackwell remains a rare and precious example of Arts and Crafts architecture and design, offering visitors a unique glimpse into early 20th-century craftsmanship and lifestyle. Its peaceful setting, stunning lake views, and richly decorated interiors provide an immersive cultural experience that celebrates both heritage and artistry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
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Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
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Westmorland County Showground
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Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Lake District National Park
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Holker Hall & Gardens
17.7 km
Explore the stunning Holker Hall & Gardens, a perfect blend of nature and history, offering visitors a captivating experience in Grange-over-Sands.
Sir John Barrow Monument
18.8 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
18.9 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
19.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Start Of Cumbria Way
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Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
Leighton Hall Estate
22.2 km
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Scafell Pike
22.4 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
23.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Eskdale Mill
23.3 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
The Westmorland Family
23.5 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Honister Slate Mine
25.8 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
1.5 km
Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.
Lake District
2.1 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
2.5 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.
National Trust - Hill Top
3.1 km
Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
3.3 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.
Windermere
3.5 km
Explore Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, where stunning landscapes, vibrant villages, and rich heritage create an unforgettable Lake District experience.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
3.6 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
4.2 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
4.3 km
Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
5.0 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
5.1 km
Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.
Latterbarrow
5.6 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
6.0 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Holehird Gardens
6.2 km
Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.
Go Ape Grizedale
6.4 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and soaring zip lines in the heart of Grizedale Forest, Lake District’s premier outdoor activity hub.
Essential places to dine
The Ryebeck Hotel
0.7 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Henrock
1.2 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
The Brown Horse Inn
2.1 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
2.1 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
2.3 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
2.3 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
Porto Restaurant
2.4 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
2.4 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Magic Roundabout
2.4 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.
The Flying Pig Pub
2.5 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Westmorland Inn
2.7 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hooked Seafood
3.9 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
4.1 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
4.1 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 Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
5.7 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love the Lakes Bowness
2.3 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Mountain Warehouse
2.4 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Tesco Express
2.4 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Lonsdale Galleries
2.4 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
2.5 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Herdy Bowness
2.5 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Pretty Things
2.6 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Original Man Shop
2.6 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
4.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
4.3 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Elephant Yard Shopping
11.5 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
11.5 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
11.6 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Ryman Stationery
11.6 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
11.6 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
1.3 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Boaters Bar
2.0 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
2.1 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
2.2 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Arts Bar
2.3 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
2.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Easy Breeze
2.4 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Fizzy Tarté
2.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Lago
2.4 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.
Hole in t' Wall
2.4 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
2.4 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
4.2 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
4.2 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
4.2 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.
The Windermere Speakeasy
4.3 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
2.0 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
3.7 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lounge C9
32.2 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
32.3 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
32.3 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
37.3 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
44.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The George Inn
54.9 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
58.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
58.6 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
58.7 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
58.7 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
58.8 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Soul Suite
58.8 km
Experience the soulful heartbeat of Blackpool with classic tunes, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Soul Suite.
Popworld - Blackpool
58.9 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
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
