Sizergh Castle

History

Sizergh Castle

Sizergh Castle is a stately home and garden located in Helsington, Cumbria. The castle is a grade I listed building and has been home to the Strickland family for over 760 years. The massive 60-ft pele tower at the heart of Sizergh is striking evidence of its origins as a defensive stronghold during the frequent border raids which long troubled this part of the country.

Strickland Family

The Strickland family has played a significant role in the history of Sizergh Castle. The family has been in residence at Sizergh since the early 13th century when the heiress Elizabeth Deincourt married Sir William de Strickland. For many of those years, the family played a major role in national events. For example, a Strickland carried the English banner at Agincourt.

14th Century

The earliest part of the castle was a single-story hall range used as the east side entrance. In 1343, the four-story solar tower was added to the castle’s south side. The famous Sizergh Hall was constructed between 1310 and 1360.

Wars of the Roses

During the Wars of the Roses, the Strickland family supported the House of Lancaster. However, the castle was attacked and captured by the Yorkists in 1487. The castle was later returned to the Strickland family.

Henry VIII

In the 16th century, during the reign of Henry VIII, the Strickland family was rewarded for their loyalty to the crown. They were granted a Royal Charter to hold a weekly market and an annual fair in the town of Kendal. The family also received a coat of arms and a crest.

Overall, Sizergh Castle has a rich and fascinating history, with the Strickland family playing a significant role in its development. From its origins as a defensive stronghold to its role in national events, Sizergh Castle is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Strickland family.

Architecture and Gardens

Sizergh Castle and Garden is a stunning example of a stately home and garden located in historic Westmorland, Cumbria. The castle is a Grade I listed building and has been the home of the Hornyold-Strickland family for more than 750 years. The castle and gardens have been extended and developed over the centuries, resulting in a unique and beautiful combination of architectural styles and natural landscapes.

Castle and Tower

The castle itself is a magnificent building with a rich history. The original tower dates back to the 14th century and was built by the Deincourt family. Over the centuries, the castle was extended and modified by the Strickland family, who added a range of architectural styles, including Elizabethan and Tudor. The castle is filled with items collected by 26 generations of the Strickland family, including the internationally recognised Inlaid Chamber. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its fascinating history and the lives of the people who lived there.

Limestone Rock Garden

The limestone rock garden is a unique and beautiful feature of Sizergh Castle and Garden. It was created in the 1930s by the owner at the time, Walter Strickland, and is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. The garden is built on a steep slope and is designed to mimic the natural habitats of plants and animals found in limestone areas. Visitors can explore the garden and enjoy the stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.

Kitchen Garden and Orchard

The working kitchen garden and orchard are another highlight of Sizergh Castle and Garden. The garden is home to a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including heritage varieties that have been grown at Sizergh for generations. Visitors can learn about traditional gardening techniques and see how the garden is used to produce food for the castle and its residents. The orchard is home to a variety of apple trees and other fruit trees, and visitors can enjoy the fruit when it is in season.

Woodland and Wetland

The woodland and wetland areas of Sizergh Castle and Garden are home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. The woodland is a mix of native and non-native trees and is home to a range of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. The wetland area is home to a variety of water-loving plants and animals, including frogs, toads, and dragonflies. Visitors can explore these areas and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the natural environment.

Park

The park at Sizergh Castle and Garden is a beautiful and expansive area of grassland and woodland. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and a wide range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park and take in the stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.

Overall, Sizergh Castle and Garden is a unique and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or nature, there is something to see and enjoy at Sizergh.

Art and Collections

Sizergh Castle is home to a diverse collection of art and objects, ranging from family portraits to rare Elizabethan furniture. The castle houses a hugely important collection of extremely rare carved oak furniture from the Elizabethan period. Visitors to the castle can explore the collection of over 2,400 objects that tell the story of the Strickland family, who have lived at Sizergh for over 800 years.

Family Portraits

The collection of family portraits at Sizergh Castle is particularly noteworthy. Many of the portraits depict members of the Strickland family, including Lady Edeline Sackville, who was the daughter of the 7th Baronet and the wife of Sir Gerald Strickland, the 1st Baron Strickland of Sizergh. The portraits provide a fascinating insight into the family’s history and the changing fashions of the times.

Paintings

The collection of paintings at Sizergh Castle is also impressive. The castle houses works by a number of notable artists, including George Romney, who painted a portrait of Lady Edeline Sackville. The paintings cover a range of styles and periods, from the 18th century to the present day.

Lady Edeline Sackville

Lady Edeline Sackville was a prominent member of the Strickland family and a noted socialite. She was known for her beauty and charm, and was a popular subject for artists of the time. Her portrait by George Romney is one of the highlights of the collection at Sizergh Castle.

Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum in London also has a number of items from the collection at Sizergh Castle. These include a number of pieces of furniture, as well as a set of six 17th-century painted glass panels. The panels were originally part of a larger set that was installed in the windows of the chapel at Sizergh Castle.

National Trust Collections

Many of the items in the collection at Sizergh Castle are part of the National Trust Collections. The National Trust is a charitable organization that works to preserve historic buildings and other important sites throughout the UK. The collection at Sizergh Castle is just one of the many important collections that the National Trust has helped to preserve for future generations.

Visiting Sizergh Castle

Sizergh Castle is a picturesque medieval house located in Kendal, Cumbria. The castle is set in large, beautifully landscaped gardens and based on an impressive 14th Century solar tower, and it remains the home of the Strickland family for more than 750 years.

Opening Times and Prices

The castle is open to the public from March to October, and visitors can explore the gardens and castle between 10 am and 5 pm. The last admission is at 4 pm. The castle is closed during the winter months.

The admission prices for Sizergh Castle are £14.50 for adults, £7.25 for children, and £36.25 for a family ticket. National Trust members can visit the castle for free.

National Trust Membership

National Trust members can enjoy free entry to Sizergh Castle and other National Trust properties across the UK. Membership fees start at £6 per month for individuals and £10.50 per month for families.

Café and Shop

The castle has a café that serves a range of hot and cold drinks, light snacks, and meals. The café is open from 10 am to 4.30 pm. There is also a gift shop that sells souvenirs, books, and local produce.

Play Area

Sizergh Castle has a play area for children, which includes a climbing wall, rope swing, and other activities. The play area is open during the summer months.

Stumpery

The stumpery is a unique feature of Sizergh Castle’s garden. It is a collection of tree stumps that have been arranged to create a striking and unusual garden feature.

Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter, the famous author and illustrator, was a frequent visitor to Sizergh Castle. The castle has a display of her artwork and a selection of her books for visitors to enjoy.

Care of the National Trust

Sizergh Castle is cared for by the National Trust, a charity that works to protect and preserve historic places and natural landscapes across the UK. The National Trust relies on donations and membership fees to fund its work.

Staff

The staff at Sizergh Castle are knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to answer visitors’ questions. They are passionate about the castle’s history and are dedicated to preserving its heritage for future generations to enjoy.

Conclusion

Sizergh Castle is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The castle is a Grade I listed building and has been the home of the Hornyold-Strickland family for over 750 years. Today, the estate is in the care of the National Trust, and visitors can explore the castle, its gardens, and the surrounding countryside.

One of the highlights of a visit to Sizergh Castle is the collection of extremely rare carved oak furniture from the Elizabethan period. The castle also houses richly carved overmantels and the magnificent Inlaid Chamber, which has some of the finest panelling ever made for an English country house. Visitors can also see early pieces of Gillows furniture, including a highly important set of seat.

The gardens at Sizergh Castle are also worth exploring. The gardens are beautifully landscaped and offer visitors a chance to see a variety of plants and flowers. There are also several walking trails that visitors can follow to explore the surrounding countryside.

Overall, Sizergh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and gardens. The castle and its estate offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and provide visitors with a chance to explore the beautiful countryside of the Lake District. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Sizergh Castle is a great place to spend a day learning about the history of the area and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.