Mirehouse & Gardens

History of Mirehouse and Gardens

Mirehouse is a 17th-century house located at the foot of Dodd, near Bassenthwaite Lake and St Bega’s Church, on the A591 road in Cumbria. The current house was built in 1666 by the 8th Earl of Derby for visits to his Cumbrian estates. In 1688, he sold it to his agent Roger Gregg, and this is the only time it has been sold. Since then, it has passed by direct inheritance, never having been sold again.

The house has a rich history, and it is believed that people lived here in the 16th century. The Spedding family has owned the house since 1802, and they still live there today. The family has a long history of literary and artistic connections, and the house has welcomed many famous visitors over the years, including William Wordsworth and Alfred Tennyson.

Mirehouse has a strong connection to literature, and it is said that the house and its surroundings inspired some of Wordsworth’s poetry. The house also boasts an impressive collection of manuscripts, including letters from Tennyson and other famous writers.

The gardens at Mirehouse are equally impressive and have been open to the public since the 1960s. The gardens were designed to complement the house, and they offer stunning views of the dramatic Lakeland landscape they are set in. Visitors can explore the walled Bee Garden, stroll along the Poetry Walk, or sit by the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake.

Overall, Mirehouse is a beautiful family-run historic house with gardens, lakeshore, and woodland playgrounds open for visitors to enjoy whatever the weather. It is a unique and fascinating place with a rich history and a strong connection to literature and the arts.

Mirehouse is a member of the Historic Houses and Cumbria’s Living Heritage.

Exploring Mirehouse and Gardens

Mirehouse and Gardens by Bassenthwaite Lake is a beautiful family-run historic house that offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Lakeland landscape. The estate is located on the eastern side of Bassenthwaite, overlooked by the spectacular Derwent fells, and is often overlooked by visitors. However, the gardens in particular are certainly worth the drive.

The House and Grounds

Mirehouse is a 17th-century house to the north of Keswick in Cumbria, at the foot of Dodd, near Bassenthwaite Lake and St Bega’s Church. Although still a family home, it and its grounds are open to the public. Visitors can explore the house’s many artefacts, including literary connections to Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Live piano music is played in the music room, adding to the atmosphere of the manor house. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views offered along the lakeside walk.

The Gardens

Mirehouse’s natural playgrounds set amidst woods and with Skill Beck running through, capture the imagination and delight children of all ages. The formal gardens are well-maintained, with a variety of trees, flowers, and scenery. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll along the lakeside paths, where they can enjoy the beauty of the Lakeland landscape. The gardens are also home to wildlife such as deer and red squirrels.

Bee Garden

The grounds now include a bee garden, which is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can learn about the importance of bees and their role in the ecosystem. The garden is well-maintained and offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Heather Maze

The heather maze is a unique feature of the gardens. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the maze, enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the natural gardens.

Adventure Play

The adventure play area is perfect for families with children of all ages. The playgrounds are well-maintained and offer a range of activities to keep children entertained. Visitors can also enjoy skimming stones in the nearby lake.

Picnic Areas

Mirehouse and Gardens offer several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. The old sawmill tea room is also available for those who want to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the gardens and the value for money of the entrance fee. The toilets are well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. The location information is clear and easy to follow, with grid ref provided for those who want to explore the Dodd’s Woods trails.

In summary, Mirehouse and Gardens by Bassenthwaite Lake offer a stunning variety of natural and formal gardens, adventure play areas, bee gardens, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll or an action-packed day with their family. Detailed reviews on TripAdvisor attest to the beauty and value of this hidden gem in the North Lake District.

Visiting Mirehouse and Gardens

Mirehouse and Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs. Located along the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, this stunning attraction offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Tickets and Entrance Fees

We are now open in the grounds, playgrounds and lakeside walk daily from 1st April until 31st October 2023, 10 am to 4.30 pm.  

The house is open on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons (also Sundays in August), 1.30 pm till 4.30 pm (last entries 4 pm), from 5th April until the end of October 2023.  

Tickets to be bought at The Old Sawmill Tearoom in Dodd Wood car park. No advance booking needed.  Parking and toilets for Mirehouse & Gardens are at Dodd Wood Pay on Exit car park opposite the main entrance.

The Gardens:

House and gardens:

Facilities

Mirehouse and Gardens offer a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The Old Sawmill Tearoom provides a range of refreshments, including delicious cakes and scones. The tearoom also serves a selection of gins, perfect for a relaxing drink after a long walk.

Toilets are available on site, including disabled facilities. Visitors can also explore the gift shop, which offers a range of souvenirs and gifts.

How to Get There

Mirehouse and Gardens is located in the Lake District, three miles from Keswick. Visitors can take the A591 from Keswick towards Carlisle and turn right at the Castle Inn junction. Follow the brown tourist signs for Mirehouse and Gardens.

For those travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is Penrith, which is approximately 20 miles away. From Penrith, visitors can take the X4 bus to Keswick and then transfer to the 73 bus to Mirehouse.

Nearby Attractions

Mirehouse and Gardens is located close to a range of other attractions, including Dodds Wood Trails and Bassenthwaite Lake. For those looking for a bite to eat, there are several pubs and restaurants in the nearby area offering a range of delicious meals.

Overall, Mirehouse and Gardens is a fantastic destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Lake District. With a range of facilities and nearby attractions, visitors are sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mirehouse and Gardens by Bassenthwaite Lake is a beautiful family-run historic house with gardens, lakeshore, and woodland playgrounds. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the Derwent fells while exploring the house and gardens. The atmosphere at Mirehouse is peaceful and tranquil, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

The staff at Mirehouse are friendly and welcoming, and they always go out of their way to ensure that visitors have a great experience. Visitors can enjoy live piano music while exploring the house and gardens, adding to the overall atmosphere of the place.

Mirehouse has received many positive reviews from visitors all over the UK. Visitors have praised the vision of the owners, who have preserved the historic house and gardens while adding modern amenities to make it more accessible to visitors.

The gardens at Mirehouse are a highlight of any visit. Visitors can explore the varied sheltered gardens and lakeside walks through woods and parks. The gardens also contain four wooded adventure playgrounds, making it an ideal place for families with children.

Overall, Mirehouse and Gardens by Bassenthwaite Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Lake District. The stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and friendly staff make it an ideal place to relax and unwind. Visitors can pay a visit to Mirehouse and Gardens to experience the beauty and history of this remarkable place.