Hill Top: Beatrix Potter’s Beloved Lake District Farmhouse
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Lake District farmhouse, where stories come alive amid charming gardens and a working farm.
Hill Top, nestled near Sawrey in the Lake District, is the cherished former home of Beatrix Potter, preserved by the National Trust. This quaint 17th-century farmhouse offers visitors a unique glimpse into Potter’s life and inspirations, with rooms filled with her belongings and gardens restored to their original charm. The working farm surrounding the house adds to its authentic rural atmosphere, making it a captivating destination for literature lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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
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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
- Book your timed entry ticket online well in advance to guarantee access, as visitor numbers are limited.
- Arrive at your booked time to avoid parking issues, as the onsite car park is small and fills quickly.
- Explore the garden thoroughly to see plants and scenes that inspired Potter’s illustrations.
- Consider visiting in the afternoon after 2:30pm for a quieter experience inside the house.
- Take a farm tour on selected dates to see the working sheep farm and learn about local agricultural traditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Ambleside takes about 15-20 minutes via the B5286 and B5285 roads. Pre-book your timed entry ticket and parking as the car park is small with limited spaces. Parking is free but arriving early is discouraged due to capacity constraints.
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Bus and Ferry
From Bowness-on-Windermere, take the Windermere Lake Cruise ferry to Ash Landing jetty, then connect to the 525 Mountain Goat bus to Hill Top. Combined boat, bus, and Hill Top tickets are available from late May. This scenic route takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.
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Public Bus
The 525 Mountain Goat bus service runs from Hawkshead and Windermere to Near Sawrey village near Hill Top. Service frequency varies seasonally, and the journey takes around 30-45 minutes. Check schedules in advance as services may be limited on weekends.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Hawkshead to Hill Top is about 3.5 km (around 45 minutes) over rural lanes and footpaths. The terrain is moderate with some inclines, suitable for most walkers with reasonable fitness.
National Trust - Hill Top 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 - Hill Top
A Literary Sanctuary Preserved in Time
Hill Top is the quintessential Lake District farmhouse that Beatrix Potter purchased in 1905 as a retreat and creative sanctuary. The house remains much as she left it, with each room carefully maintained to reflect the scenes illustrated in her beloved children’s books. Visitors can explore the cozy interiors filled with original furnishings, personal belongings, and artwork that inspired stories like "The Tale of Tom Kitten" and "The Tale of Pigling Bland." The house’s intimate scale and period details offer a vivid window into Potter’s world and creative process.The Garden That Inspired Iconic Tales
The garden at Hill Top has been lovingly restored to mirror the one Beatrix Potter tended herself. It features informally planted flower beds, a vegetable plot, and an orchard with original trees planted by Potter. The garden’s vibrant colors and carefully curated plants bring to life the settings from her stories, allowing visitors to connect directly with the natural beauty that fueled her imagination. Seasonal blooms and traditional Lakeland flora create a serene and picturesque environment to explore.A Working Farm with Enduring Heritage
Beyond the house and garden lies Hill Top Farm, still a working Lakeland farm spanning over 250 acres. The farm continues the legacy Beatrix Potter left when she bequeathed her land and flocks of Herdwick sheep to the National Trust. Operated by the Dixon family for over three decades, the farm offers occasional tours that reveal the day-to-day realities of rural life in the Lake District, blending agricultural tradition with conservation efforts.Visitor Experience and Conservation
Hill Top is managed with great care to preserve its authenticity and charm. Entry is by timed ticket only, with advance booking strongly recommended due to limited capacity and a small car park. The National Trust has installed subtle modern lighting to enhance the visitor experience without compromising the historic atmosphere. Interactive displays and animations bring Potter’s characters to life, while the adjacent gift shop offers themed souvenirs inspired by her life and work.Setting and Surroundings
Located in the peaceful village of Near Sawrey, Hill Top is surrounded by the rolling hills and lakes that define the Lake District’s dramatic landscape. The rural setting includes working farmland, woodland, and quiet lanes, offering a tranquil escape. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks nearby, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and experience the region’s natural heritage, which deeply influenced Potter’s conservation ethos.Legacy of Beatrix Potter and the National Trust
Beatrix Potter’s commitment to preserving the Lake District’s natural and cultural heritage lives on through Hill Top. Her generous donations of land and property to the National Trust have helped protect this unique landscape for future generations. The site stands as a testament to her dual legacy as an author and conservationist, inspiring visitors to appreciate both the literary magic and environmental stewardship she championed.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 - 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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
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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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boaters Bar
2.9 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
2.9 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
2.9 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Lake View Bowness
3.1 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Easy Breeze
3.4 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
3.4 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
3.5 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hole in t' Wall
3.5 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
3.5 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
3.5 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
The Albert
3.6 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
5.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
5.1 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
5.1 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
5.1 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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly