Leighton Hall Estate: The Historic Gillow Family Home and Gardens
Explore the historic Gillow family home with its enchanting gardens, woodland walks, and interactive experiences near Carnforth.
Leighton Hall Estate, near Carnforth in North Lancashire, is the ancestral home of the renowned Gillow furniture-making family. This lived-in Regency Gothic mansion offers informal guided tours where visitors can explore the house without roped-off areas, enjoy stunning gardens, woodland walks, and interactive children’s activities including a caterpillar maze and tree face trail. The estate also features a charming tearoom and seasonal birds of prey displays, set against the scenic backdrop of the English Lake District hills.
A brief summary to Leighton Hall Estate
- Storrs Ln, Carnforth, LA5 9ST, GB
- +441524734474
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
- Thursday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance, especially for the summer season when birds of prey displays are held.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the woodland trails and exploring the gardens.
- Visit the tearoom for traditional homemade cakes and tea served in proper cups.
- Families should allow extra time for children to enjoy the caterpillar maze, tree face trail, and play areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Lancaster takes approximately 25-35 minutes via the M6 and A6. Ample parking is available on-site, including coach parking. Note that the estate is signposted with brown tourism signs from the M6 junction. Parking is free.
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Train and Walk
Travelers can take a train to Silverdale Station, about 8 km from Leighton Hall. From there, a scenic 1.5-hour walk across Leighton Moss via footpaths leads to the estate, suitable for those comfortable with longer countryside walks.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Carnforth and nearby villages, with a stop approximately 3 km from Leighton Hall. From the bus stop, a 40-minute walk on rural roads and footpaths is required. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
Leighton Hall Estate 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 Leighton Hall Estate
A Storied Heritage of the Gillow Family
Leighton Hall has been the family home of the Gillow dynasty, famous for their exquisite furniture craftsmanship, for centuries. The estate’s history dates back to 1246 when a fortified manor stood on the site. The present house evolved through Georgian and Gothic architectural styles, reflecting the tastes of successive generations. Still a lived-in family home, Leighton Hall preserves a remarkable collection of Gillow furniture and objets d’art. Unlike traditional stately homes, visitors are encouraged to engage freely with the interiors, sitting on furniture and exploring without barriers, fostering a warm, immersive experience.Enchanting Gardens and Woodland Walks
Surrounding the hall are extensive gardens that blend ornamental beauty with playful features. The 19th-century walled garden includes an ornamental vegetable plot, herb garden pavilion, and a path maze. Beyond the gardens, a woodland walk invites visitors to explore nature trails, complete with a tree face trail and a caterpillar maze designed especially for children. The grounds also feature a bee corner and insect hotel, emphasizing biodiversity and outdoor discovery. Seating areas are scattered throughout, offering tranquil spots to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
Leighton Hall is family-friendly, with many activities tailored to children such as brass rubbings, a play area, and seasonal events like a Teddy Bear Hunt and craft corners during August. The estate hosts captivating birds of prey displays at 3:30 pm on open days during the summer months, weather permitting, adding an exciting element to the visit. The informal tours are led by enthusiastic guides who share the hall’s rich history and stories, making the visit educational and entertaining for all ages.Hospitality and Facilities
The estate’s tearoom offers a delightful selection of homemade cakes, traditional teas served in proper cups, and light refreshments, perfect for relaxing after exploring the grounds. The welcoming atmosphere extends to weddings and private events, where the hall’s stunning setting and attentive hosts create memorable occasions. Ample parking and coach facilities support group visits, and the estate remains open for pre-booked groups year-round.Location and Setting
Nestled in a bowl of parkland just outside Carnforth, Leighton Hall enjoys a picturesque backdrop of the English Lake District hills and views towards Morecambe Bay. The estate’s rural setting offers a peaceful retreat yet is conveniently accessible from major roads. The blend of historic architecture, natural beauty, and interactive elements makes Leighton Hall a unique destination in Lancashire.Preserving Tradition with a Contemporary Spirit
Leighton Hall balances its rich heritage with a lively, hands-on visitor experience. The family’s ongoing stewardship ensures the estate remains vibrant and welcoming, avoiding the formality often associated with historic houses. This approach invites visitors to connect deeply with the site’s history, nature, and culture, creating lasting memories for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
10.2 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
The Clock Tower
11.6 km
Historic Elizabethan-style Clock Tower standing proudly on Morecambe’s seafront, symbolizing the town’s Victorian heritage and timeless charm.
Grizedale
25.2 km
Discover the natural beauty and artistic wonders of Grizedale Forest, a national park filled with adventure and serenity in the Lake District.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
25.9 km
Discover Queen Adelaide's Hill, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Lake District, offering stunning vistas of Windermere and lush landscapes.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
26.2 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Windermere at Orrest Head Viewpoint, a must-visit in the English Lake District for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
26.7 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Ribblehead Viaduct
26.9 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Holehird Gardens
27.6 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Furness Abbey
27.7 km
Discover Furness Abbey, a historical landmark in Barrow-in-Furness showcasing stunning monastic architecture and rich heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
Latterbarrow
27.7 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Piel Castle
28.2 km
Explore the historical charm and stunning coastal views of Piel Castle, a medieval fortress on Piel Island, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Brockhole on Windermere
28.6 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
National Trust - Wray
29.1 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Townend
29.2 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
29.2 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve
2.1 km
Explore rugged limestone landscapes and ancient woodlands with stunning views over Morecambe Bay at Warton Crag Nature Reserve.
Warton Old Rectory
2.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a 14th-century rectory, a testament to medieval life and ecclesiastical power in the heart of Warton village.
Arnside Tower
4.3 km
Explore Arnside Tower, a hauntingly beautiful 15th-century pele tower ruin nestled on a limestone knoll with stunning estuary views in Cumbria.
Fairy Steps
4.6 km
Discover the enchanting limestone gorge and legendary Fairy Steps near Milnthorpe, a scenic family-friendly walk rich in natural beauty and folklore.
Halton Castle (Remains)
9.6 km
Explore the ancient earthworks of Halton Castle, a Norman motte and bailey fortress overlooking the scenic River Lune valley near Lancaster.
Westmorland County Showground
9.7 km
A vibrant agricultural hub on the Lake District’s edge, celebrating farming heritage, local food, and rural crafts.
Lune Aqueduct
10.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Lune Aqueduct in Lancaster, a stunning feat of Victorian engineering and a picturesque tourist attraction.
Levens Hall
10.7 km
Explore Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor with the world’s oldest topiary gardens, rich history, and stunning Jacobean interiors near Kendal, Cumbria.
Hampsfell Hospice
10.7 km
Historic stone shelter atop Hampsfell with stunning 360° views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells.
Hornby Castle
11.0 km
Historic Hornby Castle rises above the Lune Valley, blending medieval roots, Victorian Gothic charm, and renowned gardens in a private English estate.
Eric Morecambe Statue
11.7 km
Celebrate British comedy legend Eric Morecambe with this iconic bronze statue overlooking Morecambe Bay’s stunning seaside promenade.
Stone Jetty
11.9 km
Historic stone jetty with stunning bay views, interactive art, and a charming café on Morecambe’s scenic seafront.
Cartmel
12.0 km
A tranquil Victorian seaside town by Morecambe Bay, blending coastal charm, historic elegance, and access to Cumbria’s natural beauty.
Lancaster Maritime Museum
12.3 km
Explore Lancaster’s maritime heritage and the city’s complex history in immersive Georgian quay buildings by the River Lune.
Radical Steps
12.5 km
Historic stone steps in Kirkby Lonsdale offering a steep, scenic descent to the tranquil River Lune and riverside walks.
Essential places to dine
The Wheatsheaf, Beetham
5.1 km
Historic country pub and inn in Milnthorpe offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in scenic Cumbria.
The Fenwick
10.6 km
Historic 250-year-old gastro pub and charming country inn in Claughton, offering fine seafood, cozy rooms, and warm Lancashire hospitality.
Quite Simply French - Restaurant with Rooms
12.3 km
Elegant French dining and boutique rooms on Lancaster’s scenic St George’s Quay, blending classic cuisine with modern comfort.
L'Enclume
12.4 km
Experience Simon Rogan’s three Michelin-starred farm-to-table masterpiece in Cartmel, where seasonal British ingredients shine in innovative tasting menus.
The Quarterhouse
12.7 km
Seasonal British small plates and cocktails in Lancaster’s stylish city-center bistro with a warm, contemporary vibe.
Merchants 1688
12.8 km
Historic 17th-century wine cellar pub serving modern British cuisine with local ingredients beside Lancaster Castle.
The Waterwitch
13.4 km
A welcoming canal-side gastropub in Lancaster blending traditional English fare with standout vegan options and a lively community vibe.
Romneys
17.0 km
Classic British carvery dining with family-friendly amenities and cozy accommodation in the heart of Kendal.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
17.4 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
The Black Labrador
17.9 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub near Kendal serving exceptional local dishes in a warm, welcoming Lake District setting.
Comida [food]
18.2 km
Savor vibrant Spanish tapas in Kendal’s charming Highgate street at Comida, where fresh flavors meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
The Greenhouse Restaurant
18.3 km
Modern British dining with stunning views of Kendal Castle, nestled in the scenic Castle Green Hotel gardens.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
18.4 km
Historic gastropub in Kendal offering seasonal British fare, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Cottage Kitchen
18.4 km
A cozy Kendal café offering hearty breakfasts and dedicated gluten-free options in a charming, welcoming setting.
The Joshua Tree
18.5 km
Cosy family-run bistro in a historic Kendal building serving fresh traditional British fare with warm, welcoming charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kitty Brown Boutique
3.8 km
A warm, independent women’s fashion boutique in Carnforth, offering curated clothing, footwear and accessories with comfort, style and sustainability at heart.
Carnforth Bookshop
3.8 km
Discover Carnforth Bookshop, a family-run independent haven of books, gifts, and local heritage in the heart of historic Lancashire.
The Arndale Shopping Centre
11.7 km
Morecambe’s only covered shopping centre offering everyday retail and discount stores in a convenient town centre location.
Beach Bird
11.7 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage fashion, and artistic homewares at Beach Bird, Morecambe’s beloved artisan gift shop on the scenic promenade.
The Book Lounge
12.4 km
Discover a cozy haven of books, puzzles, and community spirit in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale’s historic Main Street.
GB Antiques & Furniture Centre
13.6 km
Over 100 dealers, thousands of treasures, endless browsing in Lancaster's premier antiques marketplace.
Iluvmemost Boutique
18.4 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Kendal Indoor market
18.5 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Elephant Yard Shopping
18.5 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
18.5 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
18.5 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Clarks Outlet
18.6 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
18.6 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Sainsbury's
19.9 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
20.1 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smugglers Den Morecambe
11.3 km
Historic 1740s pub in Morecambe offering friendly service, quality ales, and a cozy atmosphere at great value.
Strickland Arms
12.9 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
The Bowerham
13.9 km
A historic Grade II listed pub in Lancaster offering great food, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere near beautiful parkland.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
15.3 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
Fylde Bar
17.2 km
The Mill at Fylde College is Lancaster University's lively on-campus sports bar, perfect for affordable meals, live sports, and social gatherings.
The Barrel House
18.3 km
Discover Kendal’s craft beer gem with vibrant ales, cozy wooden huts, and lively quiz nights in a historic brewery setting.
Fell Bar Kendal
18.3 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant Fell Bar, a quirky craft beer haven with artisan ales, live music, and delicious pizzas in a lively two-floor setting.
19 The Wine Bar
18.3 km
An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.
Masons Yard 24
18.5 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
The New Union
18.9 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
The Whistling Pig
22.0 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
23.4 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Boaters Bar
24.1 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
24.2 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Arts Bar
24.2 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
24.2 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
25.1 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Manhattans Nightclub
29.9 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
29.9 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Lounge C9
30.0 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Funny Girls
42.1 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Club underground
42.2 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Sanuk Nightclub
42.2 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.
Popworld - Blackpool
42.3 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
42.4 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
The Tache Rock Club
42.4 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Hush Nightclub
42.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant RnB and Afrobeats nightlife at Hush Nightclub, where music, cocktails, and atmosphere come alive.
The George Inn
43.2 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
44.0 km
Discover the charm of Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a delightful pub and restaurant offering local culinary delights in the heart of Ullswater.
Switch Nightclub
45.0 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly