Lowther Castle

Of the many treasures waiting to be discovered in the English Lake District, Lowther Castle is a particular gem. Built at the turn of the 19th century, on the site of two previous houses, the castle was a grand affair boasting a room for every day of the year. Its gardens were the envy of the north. But in 1957 the castle was demolished. Just the façade and outer walls remained standing and for over half a century, the place was empty – home only to chickens, pigs and the odd bat. The gardens were lost to wilderness.

Seventy years on from its demolition, Lowther Castle is now one of the most intriguing visitor attractions in the country. Indeed it was voted Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2018 in the Cumbria Tourism Awards.

As you set out to visit Lowther Castle, we would like to make a few suggestions. Bring your children. Bring your grandchildren. Bring friends and bring dogs (on leads). Dress sensibly, wear stout footwear and outdoor clothing and big smiles and expect to stay a while. Cycle-hire is also on the menu so once you have explored the castle and gardens to your satisfaction, you can climb aboard a bicycle and journey around the wider park.

Lowther Castle is full of stories. Many of these are told in the exhibition, the Story of Lowther. And if you go exploring, through the ruins, through the gardens and woodland, you will find plenty more food for the imagination. The same family has lived here for 850 years and you can see and hear their echoes.

Meanwhile, if the younger members of your team wish to make their own stories, then seek out the lost castle, one of the UK’s largest adventure playgrounds. And when all of you are ready for a rest, you can retreat to the café and have some delicious food, before taking to the gift shop and indulging in one last treat.

The castle ruins, exhibition, gardens, adventure playground, café and shop, are open every day from 10am to 4pm in winter and 10am to 5pm in summer. For castle and garden entry fees, click here. Last entry to the gardens 1 hour before closing. Shop, café, courtyard and parking free.