Things to do near Heversham village
Published: Wednesday 6th Feb 2019
Written by: The Original Cottages Team
In the South Lakeland district of Cumbria lies Heversham, a small scenic village just a stone's throw from Levens and the market town of Kendal. William Wordsworth often travelled through this picturesque village and it is though he gained inspiration whilst rambling the marshes nearby to write the poem ‘The World is too much with us’. To the north east of the village is Heversham Head which provides panoramic views over the surrounding landscape and estuaries.
Lakeland Maze Farm Park
Located at Raines Hall Farm in Sedwick, on the outskirts of Kendal, Lakeland Maze Farm Park was one of the first maize mazes in the North of England and makes a fantastic day out for all the family. Once you’ve explored the maze you can experience tractor rides around the farm with the little ones and even have the chance to get close and feed some of the animals in the pet barn and out on the farm. Raines Hall Farm is a working farm and as well as cattle, sheep and various breeds of pig, there are ferrets, llamas, alpacas, pigmy goats and much more!
Levens Hall
Just a 15-minute drive away is Levens Hall, a family house that has been occupied since about 1350, explore the history of the house and those who have lived in it. The interior is of the Elizabethan period with fine oak panelling and ornate plasterwork. The gardens of Levens Hall are really something to admire, they were originally laid out in the 1690’s and are home to the oldest and most extensive topiary garden in the world, with over 100 pieces, each with an individual design. The stunning 17th century garden was laid in the 1990’s and provides a breath-taking backdrop to accompany refreshments on the tea terrace. Whilst visiting Levens Hall you should keep an eye out for one of the many ghosts that are said to haunt the hall and its grounds.
Yew Tree Barn
If you love antique shopping, or just browsing the weird and the wonderful, you’ll find Yew Tree Barn less than 10 miles from Heversham. Home to Wilson Reclamation Services where owner Clive Wilson has been preserving the history of days gone by since 1986 in this stunning 19th century traditional Westmorland barn in the beautiful Lake District countryside. Make sure you allow plenty of time for browsing and be sure to check out Harry’s Café – offering everything from breakfast through to evening meals and an interesting wine list.
Low Sizergh Barn
Enjoy a warm Cumbrian welcome at Sizergh Barn and discover foodie finds in the 17th century farm shop. Spend the afternoon exploring the unique craft and gift galleries and watch the cows being milked whilst sampling local treats in the cosy tearoom. Low Park Wood is an area of Ancient semi-natural Woodland on Low Sizergh Farm, take a walk through these woodlands and enjoy the many different plant species.
Sizergh Castle
Sizergh castle is a beautiful medieval house, just south of Kendal, at the gateway to the Lake District. The castle is still occupied by the Strickland family and is home to centuries-old portraits and fine furniture. The gardens are rich with tulips and daffodils during spring and is home to an array of wildlife, including Hawfinches and Buzzards.
Kendal Castle
The Castle was built in the early 1200’s as the home of the barons of Kendal, falling to ruin during the Tudor period. The castle walls, one of the towers and the manor hall remain to a significant height. It’s a lovely short walk up Castle Hill from the centre of Kendal, with plenty to explore and from the top there are some wonderful views over Kendal and Lakeland fells. There’re also several wooded walks along the lower slopes leading up to the Castle with sculpture seats commissioned for the site by artist Alain Ayers.
Pubs & Restaurants
The Strickland Arms is located just up the road in Sizergh, offering superb dining in a traditional English pub on the edge of the Lake District. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, relax after a day exploring the fells or sailing on the Lakes or simply call in and enjoy a drink by the roaring fire.
Alternatively, if craft beers, delicious hand-rolled pizzas and burgers are more to your taste The Hare and Hounds is a gorgeous 16th century coaching inn set in the pretty village of Levens. Everyone is welcome – kids, muddy boots and dogs included!
And if fine dining is what you’re looking for, two-michelin-starred restaurant L’Enclume is in the ancient village of Cartmel. The new Aulis at L’Enclume offers a unique and interacting dining experience, take a seat at the chef’s table and take a glimpse into the magic behind the scenes of the kitchen.
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