Hill Top – Beatrix Potter’s Lake District Home

Step into Beatrix Potter’s world at her Lake District farmhouse, where her beloved tales came to life among stone walls, a cottage garden, and the rolling hills of the Lake District.

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National Trust - Hill Top

Step into the world of Beatrix Potter at Hill Top, her beloved 17th-century farmhouse in the Lake District. Filled with her personal belongings and the very scenes that inspired her classic children’s tales, this National Trust property offers an intimate glimpse into the life and imagination of the author. Wander through the charming cottage, explore the lovingly restored garden, and discover how the landscape shaped stories like The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Tom Kitten. A must-visit for fans of literature, history, and the timeless charm of the English countryside.

A brief summary to National Trust - Hill Top

Ambleside, Near Sawrey, LA22 0LF, GB
+441539436269
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3 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
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book timed entry tickets online in advance, especially in peak season, as slots fill quickly and walk-up availability is limited.
Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and softer light, making it easier to appreciate the house and garden at a relaxed pace.
Allow time to explore the garden and surrounding village; many scenes from Beatrix Potter’s books are visible in the landscape and planting.
National Trust members enter free, but must still book a timed ticket; remember to bring your membership card on arrival.
Dogs are welcome in the garden and village but not inside the house; plan accordingly if visiting with pets.

Getting There

By car

From Ambleside, follow the B5286 and B5285 for about 6 miles to Near Sawrey; from Coniston, take the B5285 for about 7 miles. The car park at Hill Top is small and fills quickly, so arrive close to your booked time. Parking is free but not guaranteed with a ticket; consider parking in Hawkshead and walking or taking the local bus.
By bus

Take the 525 Mountain Goat bus from Hawkshead or Bowness-on-Windermere to Hill Top. The journey from Hawkshead takes about 10–15 minutes and drops you near the house. Service is more frequent in spring and summer; check local timetables for current schedules.
By boat and bus

From Bowness-on-Windermere, take a Windermere Lake Cruise to Ash Landing, then connect with the 525 bus to Hill Top. The combined boat and bus journey takes about 45–60 minutes and offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding fells.
On foot

From Hawkshead, follow the footpath and quiet lanes to Hill Top; the walk takes about 30–40 minutes through rolling countryside and small villages. The route is well-marked but includes some inclines and uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes.

National Trust - Hill Top location weather suitability

Any Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about National Trust - Hill Top

A Writer’s Beloved Retreat

Hill Top is the 17th-century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter found inspiration, peace, and a deep connection to the Lake District. Purchased in 1905, this modest stone cottage became her cherished holiday home and creative sanctuary, where she wrote and illustrated many of her most famous tales. The house remains much as she left it, filled with her personal possessions, furniture, and collections, offering a rare, unvarnished look into her daily life. Visitors walk through rooms that feel lived-in, where every corner holds a clue to her stories and her love of animals, nature, and the rhythms of rural life.

Rooms That Inspired the Tales

The interior of Hill Top is a treasure trove of literary and domestic history. Each room is carefully preserved, with state-of-the-art lighting that allows visitors to spotlight details at their own pace. The famous half-landing with its grandfather clock and window is instantly recognisable from The Tale of Samuel Whiskers, while Tom Kitten’s gate and Jemima Puddle-Duck’s rhubarb patch can be spotted in the garden. Inside, you’ll find Beatrix’s writing desk, her collection of ceramics, and the very scenes that became illustrations in her little books. Animations of her beloved mice and a dolls’ house replica add a playful touch, making the house especially engaging for younger visitors.

A Garden Restored to Its Literary Past

Beatrix Potter’s garden at Hill Top was both a practical vegetable plot and a source of endless inspiration. Lovingly restored using her letters, diaries, and drawings, the garden reflects how it looked in her time, with informally planted flower beds, a red-brick wall, and a path offering classic views of the cottage. The orchard still bears her apple tree, and the wisteria she planted scrambles over the garden shed. In the vegetable patch, pumpkins, onions, rhubarb, carrots, cabbage, and lettuce flourish, just as they did in her day. The garden is a living illustration of her stories, where visitors can match scenes from The Tale of Tom Kitten and The Tale of Pigling Bland with the real plants and borders.

A Working Farm and a Lasting Legacy

Hill Top is not just a house and garden; it is part of a working Lakeland farm that Beatrix bequeathed to the National Trust. Her legacy includes 15 farms and cottages, 4,000 acres of land, and flocks of pedigree Herdwick sheep, all cared for to preserve the landscape she loved. The farm remains fully operational, and on selected dates, visitors can join farm tours led by the tenant farmers, offering a rare glimpse beyond the gate into traditional Lake District farming. These tours highlight how Beatrix’s vision of conservation and sustainable land use continues to shape the region today.

Visiting with Comfort and Care

A visit to Hill Top is a step back in time, and the experience is designed to be authentic rather than modernised. The house is a traditional cottage with narrow staircases and uneven floors, so access to the upper floor is limited; a video of the upstairs rooms is available for those who cannot climb the stairs. The garden has some steps and uneven surfaces, but the surrounding paths and village are accessible for those who wish to explore further. Dogs are welcome in the garden and village, though they cannot enter the house. A small shop sells Beatrix Potter–themed gifts, and there is a simple outdoor café offering drinks and snacks, making it easy to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon immersed in her world.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lake District National Park Authority

15.8 km

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

Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.

Henrock

3.6 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

3.8 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

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

14.6 km

Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.

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

14.7 km

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 Home

A brief summary to National Trust - Hill Top

Local tips

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

Getting There

By car

By bus

By boat and bus

On foot

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

A Writer’s Beloved Retreat

Rooms That Inspired the Tales

A Garden Restored to Its Literary Past

A Working Farm and a Lasting Legacy

Visiting with Comfort and Care

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