Levens Hall

Levens Hall, near Kendal in Cumbria, is a striking Elizabethan mansion built around a 13th-century pele tower. Expanded in the late 16th century, the Hall has been home to the Bagot family for over 400 years.

image of the exterior of Levens Hall

Inside Levens Hall

The interiors of Levens Hall reflect the craftsmanship of the Jacobean era, featuring dark-stained wood paneling, carved furniture, and ornate plaster ceilings. The walls are adorned with period portraits and landscapes, many linked to the Bagot family’s long history. Notable artifacts include early tapestries, intricate needlework, and the oldest surviving piece of English patchwork. Key rooms such as the library and dining room highlight the rich detail and historical significance of the Hall’s furnishings, offering visitors a glimpse into 17th-century domestic life. For children, a scavenger hunt adds an interactive element to the visit.

image of a study room in the interior of Levens Hall

The World’s Oldest Topiary Garden

Levens Hall is renowned for its topiary garden, the oldest of its kind, laid out in 1694 by French gardener Guillaume Beaumont. With over 100 intricate shapes, including towering pyramids and abstract forms, the garden exemplifies centuries of meticulous care. Some of the shrubs and trees are over 300 years old.

image of the world's oldest topiary garden at Levens Hall

Beyond the ornamental garden, a large kitchen garden supplies fresh produce for Levens Kitchen, the estate’s restaurant. The café offers a menu that changes with the seasons, featuring locally sourced ingredients, including vegetables from the estate. Visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating while sampling freshly baked pastries, breads, and cakes.

Exploring the Grounds

On arrival, guests can purchase tickets at the ticket office or head toward the café and shops. The main entrance leads to either the Hall or the gardens. Guided tours of the Hall begin at 10 a.m. on select days, providing insight into the estate’s history.

image of Levens Kitchen outdoor dining area

The gardens include wildflower pathways that support local pollinators and a walled garden adorned with climbing plants. Honey produced by the estate’s head gardener is available for purchase. Families can make use of a children’s playground with nearby picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

image of the honey that is made at Levens Hall

Additional Attractions

Levens Hall offers more than its gardens and interiors. The estate gift shop and plant center sell unique souvenirs and gardening supplies. Across from the car park, a large deer park invites visitors to explore its walking trails and natural beauty.

image of the exterior of the gift shop at Levens Hall

2024 Opening hours : 27 March – 04 October
House and Gardens: Sunday – Friday (closed on Saturdays)
House: 10.00-15.30
Gardens: 10.00-1700
Levens Kitchen: Open everyday: 10.00-17.00

2024 Admission :
House and Gardens:
£15.50 (adult)
£5.50 (child)
£39.00 (family)

Gardens only:
£11.50 (adult)
£4.50 (child)
£29.00 (family)

Levens Hall, Kendal, LA8 0PD. Tel 015395 60321
Email : houseopening@levenshall.co.uk Website : www.levenshall.co.uk

3 random interesting facts about Levens Hall and Gardens

The Elizabethan house was originally built around a 13th century Pele Tower.
Dating back to the 1690s, the Gardens retain many original features including the world’s oldest topiary gardens.
The house was lost in a game of cards and was acquired by Colonel James Grahme in 1688.

(Updated November 2024)
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Grid Ref : SD 496851

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