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Tuesday 18 October 2016

The World of Beatrix Potter


The World of Beatrix Potter is a child friendly attraction in Bowness On Windermere. Based predominately inside it is an ideal place to visit on a rainy day. 

As expected when we visited the Lake District it was raining so we had it on our list of places to go. There was also the added bonus that they accept Tesco Days Out vouchers so I cashed in some Clubcard points beforehand.

As we entered the town we parked in a nearby car park, walking the short distance to the attraction and using the buggy friendly side entrance. The price of admission was £14.40 (two adults at £7.20, 2's and under free) but with the use of our Tesco voucher is came to just £4.40!!! A complete bargain.

We made our way through to the small cinema type room to watch the five minute presentation that introduces Miss Potter, her stories and illustrations. At this moment Joseph decided he wanted out of his pushchair and wanted to walk, so we spent most of the time wrestling him into his reins! 

At the end of the short film a door opened as we stepped inside we were whisked into the stories of Miss Potter. Greeted first by Peter Rabbit and then by Jemima Puddle Duck, the characters are identical to those from the books as are the scenes. 


Daddy and toddler looking at Peter Rabbit figure


Jemima Puddle Duck

Jemima Puddle Duck


Once passed Mr Tod, Tommy Brock and the pigs from The Tale of Pigling Bland we made our way outside to the Peter Rabbit Garden. At this point Joseph had retreated into his pushchair as he didn't take to kindly to Mr Tod. The garden is a small but quaint addition to the attraction that has been carefully and lovingly designed to include the flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables from Beatrix Potter's illustrations of her gardens. It is easy to imagine Peter popping up in one of the veg patches or Mr McGregor trimming the fruit trees.


Garden in the style of Mr Mcgregors garden

Statue of children playing

Back inside we see Mrs Tiggy-winkle busy doing laundry in her kitchen, which, to the amusement of the other visitors, Joseph declares "Nanny, its Nanny"!!! 

We also pay a visit to Mrs Tittlemouse and the most glorious red squirrel there is, Squirrel Nutkin. Next we spot Mr Jeremy Fisher a float on his lily-pad, as well as Tom Thumb and Hunca Munca up to mischief in their nursery!


Mrs Tiggy Winkle figure, pegging out washing

We then enter into the Virtual Walk area, which shows the other side to Miss Potter's life and the years that follow her marriage to William Heelis and her time farming.

Just as we think our adventure in Miss Potter's tales are over we find ourselves in Mr McGregor's Greenhouse with Peter Rabbit and his family, including his cousin Benjamin. 


Figure of Peter Rabbit, his mother, and Benjamin Bunny

Figure of Mummy rabbit


On the way out you there's a quick photo opportunity with a model of Miss Potter and you can also snap a picture in a booth like area, which shows you perched in Mr McGregor's garden. You can buy the print later in the shop

Mummy, toddler in a pushchair next to figure of Beatrix Potter
(Babs is pointing at Miss Potter not trying to touch her up!!)

I can't explain how accurate the scenes and figures are. They are so true to the books and it brings back so many childhood memories. The scenes are brought to life as you walk among them, with the real smells and sounds adding to the experience. 

Now for the important stuff. There isn't parking onsite but its only a two minute walk away. There are toilets and baby changing downstairs near to the cafe. There is a small two person lift should you not fancy hauling the pushchair down. The cafe has some extremely yummy offerings. Babs had the Peter Rabbit Picnic Basket at £4.95, which includes fruit from the garden as an offering. Daddy and I had the delicious High Tea at £16.95. 


Tower plates with sandwiches and cakes


The shop is also worth a visit and they is some great merchandise for children and adults alike. Also, don't miss the interactive screens as you walk around each scene!


Daddy and toddler using a touchscreen


We really enjoyed our visit to The World of Beatrix Potter but if you're planning a visit consider avoiding the summer holidays if you can or maybe go as early as possible. As it is such a great place to visit and with it being mainly inside I imagine it can get quiet busy, especially on rainy days. 

Enjoy!

Mummy Snowy Owl
xx


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