Blackwell, the celebrated Arts & Crafts house near Bowness-on-Windermere, is marking its 125th anniversary with a major exhibition exploring the work of its architect, M. H. Baillie Scott. Running until 20 March 2027, it’s an excellent cultural stop on a Lake District autumn or winter break.
The exhibition, M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer, opens on 18 September 2026 and brings together furniture, textiles and interior designs from Blackwell’s collection alongside loans from other collections. Visitors can discover the creative thinking behind one of the Lake District’s most distinctive historic houses.
What Is the Blackwell 125th Anniversary Exhibition?
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott (1865–1945) designed Blackwell in 1901 as a holiday home. His approach to the Arts & Crafts movement brought architecture, furniture and decorative details together into a unified interior.
The anniversary exhibition explores his wider work as an architect and designer, showing how he used materials, craftsmanship and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel like complete works of art. It includes objects from Blackwell’s own collection and loans from national, regional and private collections.
Exhibition Highlights
- The Daffodil Dresser: a recently acquired example of Baillie Scott’s furniture design.
- Copper and iron fire surround: a decorative work on loan from the Manx Museum Service.
- Textiles and interior design: objects that reveal how Baillie Scott’s ideas extended beyond the buildings themselves.
- The house itself: original features, including decorative plasterwork, carved wood, stained glass and carefully designed rooms.
Blackwell’s rooms and furnishings are part of the experience, making this an opportunity to explore the architect’s work in the setting he originally designed.
Blackwell Exhibition Dates and Opening Times
Exhibition dates: 18 September 2026 – 20 March 2027.
According to Lakeland Arts, Blackwell’s usual opening hours during the exhibition are:
- Until 1 November 2026: Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm.
- 2 November 2026 – 22 March 2027: Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm.
- Special Sunday openings: 15 and 22 November 2026 for the Winter Craft Fair.
- Closures: Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Check the venue’s current calendar for exceptions before travelling, particularly over the festive period.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Blackwell?
Entry to the exhibition is included with normal Blackwell house admission. Lakeland Arts currently lists:
- Adult: £12
- Student: £9
- Child aged 15 or under: £6
- Child aged four or under: free
- Family (one adult and up to three children): £20
- Family (two adults and up to three children): £30
Lakeland Arts members and eligible annual pass holders can enter free. Check the official Blackwell visitor page for current prices, concessions and tickets.
Where Is Blackwell?
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3JT.
Blackwell is approximately a five-minute drive from Bowness-on-Windermere. The historic house overlooks Windermere and the Coniston Fells, with landscaped terraces that are worth exploring when the weather allows.
There is also an on-site tea room serving lunches, sandwiches and cakes. Lakeland Arts advises that main meals stop at 3pm, so plan ahead if you want to eat during your visit.
Why Visit Blackwell in Autumn or Winter?
Blackwell makes a useful indoor attraction for a colder or rainy day in the southern Lake District. The exhibition is particularly appealing to visitors interested in historic houses, architecture, art and traditional craftsmanship, while the building’s views and gardens add to the experience.
Because the exhibition continues into March 2027, it also provides a reason to visit Windermere outside the busiest summer months.
Make a Day of It Around Windermere
Combine your visit with time in Bowness-on-Windermere, a walk beside the lake or another nearby heritage attraction. Windermere Jetty Museum is another Lakeland Arts venue for visitors interested in local history and design.
Planning a longer trip? Read our Lake District Autumn and Winter Breaks Guide for seasonal activities, places to stay and itinerary ideas. For more outdoor inspiration, explore our Lake District Walking Tour.
Plan Your Visit to Blackwell
M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer offers an opportunity to understand the architect behind Blackwell while enjoying the house itself. With the exhibition running until 20 March 2027, there’s time to include it in an autumn weekend, festive getaway or winter visit.
See the official exhibition details and book Blackwell admission.
Dates, opening hours and ticket prices were checked in October 2026 and may change. Confirm details with Lakeland Arts before travelling.
Kath Beattie studied Journalism at The University of Central Lancashire and now writes for several Travel publications. She recently moved to The Lake District and enjoys walking her 3 dogs every day across the fells.
