On Saturday we decided to explore the Lingholm estate on Derwentwater. Lingholm is set in a stunning location, with a walled garden to explore and a posh café! But the most important aspect of Lingholm for me, is the Beatrix Potter connection.
Beatrix Potter holidayed at Lingholm for ten years, from 1897 to 1907. At Lingholm she continued her friendship with Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, by then rector of Crosthwaite Church near Keswick. They'd first met at Wray Castle, near Hawkshead, and Rawnsley continued to encourage Beatrix's writing.
We had lunch in the Lingholm Kitchen and strolled round the walled garden. I was imagining Mr McGregor chasing Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny through the lettuces and raspberry canes. Chris was eyeing up plants suitable for our garden at home!
Both lost in our own worlds, we had a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.
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| Aerial view of Lingholm Estate with Derwentwater beyond and Keswick in the distance |
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| Vegetables growing in the walled garden |
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| The Lingholm Kitchen viewed from the walled garden |
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| The vegetable garden viewed from the terrace |