Location : Bowness-on-Windermere / Ambleside
Map - Ordnance Survey - SD 389009

The Lake District was created in 1951 and covers 885 sq miles in area. The National Park Authority is here to look after the National Park, helping people enjoy its beauty, while fostering the well-being of those who live and work here.

Situated between Ambleside and Windermere, the National Park Visitor Centre opened in 1969, and is set in 30 acres of magnificent terraced gardens stretching down to the shore of Windermere, with splendid views of the surrounding countryside.

The house was built by wealthy Manchester silk merchant William Henry Aldolphus Gaddum who in 1895 bought four plots of farm land. Architect Dan Gibson designed the house and the local landscape gardener Thomas Mawson laid out the five acres of formal gardens, landscaping the remaining 25 acres to provide spectacular views of the lake and fells. Brockhole often hosts guided walks around the 30 acres of landscaped grounds with the head gardener, to get a closer look at the delightful surroundings.

A frequent visitor to the house was Beatrix Potter, a cousin of Mrs Gaddum. She refers to visits to the house in her journals.

There are plenty of places to picnic and relax and enjoy the view. You can enjoy the beautiful shores of Windermere against the backdrop of spectacular mountain scenery by taking a lake cruise from Brockhole's jetty.

In the house you can discover more about the lake District. There are exhibitions, film and slide shows, and a shop with books, maps and gifts. There is a restaurant and tea room with terraced seating outside, an adventure playground, picnic area, putting and croquet.

As of Easter 2012 Brockhole will have a new attraction known as The Treetop Trek which is an adrenaline packed adventure suitable for 5 years and over.

In June 2011 Brockhole constructed a jetty on Windermere which is suitable for the landing of big steamers. It also makes wheelchair access and access for parents with prams much easier.

You can now participate in water sports such as kayaking and sailing at Brockhole with sessions being run by Lakes Leisure.

Various events are held throughout the year, which are listed in a leaflet available from tourist information centres.

For more information about the Lake District National Park, and Brockhole, see www.lake-district.gov.uk

Go to Menu :

• Central Cumbria Menu
• Gardens & Houses
• Visitor Centres
• Thomas Mawson