Hill Top
About
Hill Top is the 17th-century farmhouse near Sawrey where Beatrix Potter wrote and illustrated many of her most beloved stories — and stepping through the door is like entering one of her books. The tiny rooms, the kitchen garden, the views across to Esthwaite Water — this is the landscape that became Mr McGregor's garden, Jemima Puddle-Duck's farmyard, and the world of Tom Kitten. Potter bought Hill Top in 1905 with the profits from The Tale of Peter Rabbit, and she kept it as her creative retreat even after marriage. The house is preserved exactly as she left it, down to the furniture, china, and personal items. You can spot the settings and objects that appear in her illustrations throughout the house — the staircase from Tom Kitten, the kitchen range from The Roly-Poly Pudding. The house is small and visits are timed — booking is essential in summer as it sells out weeks ahead. The attached garden is beautiful and free to visit even without a house ticket. The walk from Hawkshead (via the Ferry from Windermere) takes about 30 minutes and is part of the experience. Allow about an hour for the house, plus time in the garden and the National Trust shop.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/hill-top 015394 36269
Tickets & Pricing
Adult £13, Child £6.50. National Trust members free. Garden free. Book timed entry.
Opening Times
Mar-Oct: daily 10:00-16:30. Timed entry — book in advance. Garden: free, open 10:00-17:00.
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