Things to do at Allan Bank and Grasmere

The garden in autumn and winter

The garden and woodland pleasure ground are a magical place to explore at this time of year. The changing colours, smells and sounds of the season are all around us. Jewel coloured Autumn leaves drift slowly to the ground on a gentle breeze, or dash and whirl in a frenzy on blustery days. Bracken on the hillside is burnished gold, contrasting with the emerald green of mossy rocks and the brooding crags in shadow sweeping down to the house. On wet days, rain falling on the fells above the house rushes through streams and channels, tumbling over the cascade in the old kitchen garden. Ferns thrive in the damp, cool woodland.

The view of the landscape is ever changing, from swirling mists cloaking the valley, to crisp winter days when alpenglow on snow capped mountains lends an alpine charm to the vista. Find a quiet spot to admire the view by the bothy in the kitchen garden and don’t forget to explore the woodland walk that opens up to the views of the rolling country behind the house, where the likes of Wordsworth, Coleridge and DeQuincy once found inspiration.

Woodland walk

Allan Bank’s woodland walk dates back to Wordsworth’s time at the house. The walk follows an historic rugged path and forms a circuit that takes about 45 minutes. Look out for secret hideaways and historic features such as the Victorian viewing tunnel as you wander. You might spot some fascinating fungi along the way – pick up a fungi spotter guide from a member of staff if you want to know more about the different species.

Spot a red squirrel

The garden and woodland pleasure ground is a great place to observe the comings and goings of nature. A visit to Allan Bank offers the rare chance to catch a glimpse of native red squirrels busily foraging for seeds, nuts or fungi to eat. Working in partnership with Grasmere Red Squirrel Group, the estate is a safe haven for these charming and charismatic little creatures. Borrow a pair of binoculars to take on your walk or settle down by the window in the study where you may see them scampering across the lawn.

Perfect picnic spots

There aren’t any food outlets at Allan Bank, but we welcome picnics both outdoors and also in the house, where you can help yourself to free hot drinks. Bring something along with you or pick something up from one of the many cafés and shops in the village on your way to Allan Bank.

Relax and unwind

Allan Bank is a place to while away a few hours whilst enjoying the magnificent views unfolding from the windows. Hot drinks are available for you to help yourself to after a wander through the grounds. Allan Bank is full of quirky touches reflecting the history of its former residents and its role in the conservation movement. Have a lie down in Coleridge’s bedroom, play a boardgame, read one of the many books in the rooms or pick one up from secondhand book shop and look at the restored stained glass windows in the Billiard Room.

The Billiard Room

In 2022, restoration of the Billiard Room was completed to include conservation and re-installation of the original stained-glass windows. The picturesque pavilion, built in 1836, has undergone significant work to its electrics, plaster, masonry and joinery to turn this back into a usable space for visitors with funding from the Department of Culture and Media. It is now the welcome building.

The art room

If you're feeling inspired by your visit then head into our self-led creative space to have a go at designing your own artwork. Coloured pencils, paper and seasonal creative activities are available free of charge. Watercolour kits are available to borrow and you are welcome to bring your own supplies.

Walking around Grasmere

From lakeshore strolls to fell-top expeditions, when it comes to walking you’re spoilt for choice at Allan Bank and Grasmere. Click here for some popular walks to get you started.