Exploring the estate at Sizergh

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. 

Winter on the estate 

There's still lots to see on the estate during the winter months, and a variety of routes to choose from. One of the best walks on the estate is to Park End Moss - it'll take you through wintry woods and down to the wetland, where winter migrants will be visiting. If you sit in the bird hide, you’re likely to spot wintering wildfowl such as Wigeon, Teal and Gadwall. If you’re lucky you might even catch sight of a Marsh harrier, or a murmuration of starlings over the wetland.

On a crisp winter's day, a walk up to Helsington Church will reward you with views out over the Lakeland Fells. Along the hedgerows lining the estate’s farmland, thrushes, Fieldfare and Redwing are feeding on a late food source – hawthorn berries – making it a great place to see hungry birds. For a shorter stroll, and one suitable for little legs or wheelchairs, take the Holeslack route - conveniently, this brings you to the Visitor Centre, so you can warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate! In late January and February, snowdrops will be bursting up through the ground in the woodland and around the Knoll.

The rangers will be busy coppicing in the woodland throughout the winter – this is where they open up areas to allow light to break through the woodland canopy. This encourages more plant diversity on the woodland floor, in turn attracting butterflies and other insects to move in. Along with volunteers, they will also be reed cutting at the wetland over winter, opening up areas in the reed bed to create more open areas for feeding around the edges. So, keep a look out for Snipe, as this makes it easier for you to see these birds from the hide.

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.

From 6 September - 3 November, the guided walks will be 'Ancient Trees' themed, to celebrate the Ancient Trees exhibition. 

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.

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