Exploring the estate at Sizergh

Hawfinch Watch

In March hawfinch season begins in earnest – these hard to see birds always draw a crowd and at this time of year they can be spotted most mornings in the car park. You can join expert ranger Rob on selected Fridays for Hawfinch Watch. 

Feel good flowers

In May, spring walks reveal the best places to spot bluebells – find them in the woods at Brigsteer, Holeslack and Low Park, all good walking loops from the café. Bluebells will also be popping up in Dog Kennel Wood.  

Daffodils arrive in early March and carpet Brigsteer Wood, where rangers will be finishing off their winter work and starting to collect the wood from winter felling.

Late May is the start of orchid season and the best places to see them are Helsington Barrows, Sizergh Fell and Lane End.  Also in bloom are wild garlic, primroses, wood anemone and cowslips.   

Birds and butterflies

If you’re down by the wetland at Park End, listen out for reed warbers and sedge warblers which you’ll be able to see and hear from the path in late April. From then on, they can be seen throughout the spring and summer (along marsh harriers if you’re lucky) singing from the reeds whilst you’re sitting in the hide.

Swallows return to the wetland in May too, and listen out for the distinctive call of the chiffchaff in Sizergh’s woodland. Keep an eye out for the greater spotted woodpecker, bullfinches, kestrels and buzzards. 

The rangers’ butterfly transect begins in April, often picking up early brimstone and peacock butterflies. Butterflies can be seen throughout the spring, such as the bright yellow brimstone variety.

The team will be carrying out botanical surveys, orchid monitoring and invasive species control  at this time of year. Recently planted trees will be taking root and establishing themselves. 

We want to make sure that Sizergh is accessible for all. That's why we commissioned dedicated videos, in BSL, subtitled and audio described formats, to give you an idea of what your visit might look like. Below are the estate videos. 

Walking at Sizergh

There are several footpaths through the estate taking you through woodland, wetland and limestone grassland. Enjoy far-reaching views across the countryside from the viewpoint at Helsington Barrows; rare flowers and wildlife living on Sizergh Fell, or keep your eyes peeled for wetland birds from the hide at Park End Moss. 

A free map detailing three favourite waymarked routes is available from reception.

Guided estate walks

Join a free guided walk to find out what makes Sizergh’s countryside so special. Choose from 'Prehistoric Sizergh' or 'Ancient Trees and Magnificent Murals', and our knowledgeable volunteers will show you some of the best bits of the estate. The walks run every Monday, and you can book your free place at the 'What's on' section in the 'Things to see and do' tab on this website.

Holeslack Accessible Trail

Running through fascinating ancient woodland, the trail is a circular route, suitable for prams, Trampers, wheelchairs and visitors with reduced mobility. All of the gates are easily accessible, and a large part of the route is fenced off from livestock. 

Throughout the year, trees and walls are carpeted in lichens and mosses, and the field next to the path provides food and forage from birds and small mammals. Huge ancient trees are home to hundreds of birds, bats and invertebrates. The traditional Westmorland orchard on the route is full of apples, pears, plums and damsons. From here, you'll glimpse views of the House.

Further afield

The Towpath Trail between Kendal and Lancaster is a unique place for walking, cycling, paddling, and general rural enjoyment! Take the Sizergh loop for a longer walk - start  and end your walk in the grounds at Sizergh, enjoying beauty and history on your way along the Towpath Trail. 

Orienteering 

Orienteering is a great way to explore the estate, and the South Ribble Orienteering Club have designed three courses to enjoy at Sizergh. Download the routes below, and use the MapRun app to get started. 

• Sizergh's Accessible Orienteering Route
• Sizergh's Long Orienteering Route
• Sizergh's Short Orienteering Route

Bike hire at Sizergh

Fancy an adventure on two wheels? Pick up your e-bike from Sizergh and explore the Lyth Valley, South Lakes and Kendal - follow local guided routes or plan your own journey. With single or multi-day hire, full training and equipment included, Ease E Ride bikes are a great way to discover our local landscape and travel sustainably. 

Explore the Damson Route, a scenic circular meander from Sizergh to Witherslack along quiet country roads and a national cycle path. You’ll be spoilt for choice with coffee and cake stops en-route. Pick up your bike at Sizergh and pre-book through the Ease-e Ride website.

The gunpowder works