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Friday 27 July 2018

Sizergh Castle


Nestled in the Lake District, Sizergh Castle is a stunning medieval home and estate maintained by the National Trust. With the Strickland family still resident the property offers a mix of modern and old.


Exterior of Sizergh Castle


We arrived ready to explore on what happened to be one of the hottest days of the year so far! On scanning our National Trust cards with one of the volunteers we were handed some special invitations, which I thought was a nice trust and a good keepsake. 


Old style invitations with a faux wax seal and a map of the grounds

On reaching the house we were warmly greeted by another volunteer and handed a quiz, which JJ and Daddy soon set about doing.


A daddy stood in a hallway surrounded by paintings whilst holding a clip board

A little boy knelt on the floor using the clipbooard

Sizergh offers an interesting look into the Strickland family's life and there's a mix of painted portraits and antique furniture with more modern photographs and sofas. 


An upstairs hallway with paintings

Stately living area

Sitting room

Four poster bedroom with an open wardrode which is housing a sink

The National Trust are also currently sharing 18th Century resident Cecilia Strickland's letters and it gives an amazing insight into her life, loves and losses. It also gave me desk envy!!


Desk and chair looking out onto the estate

There are also the stunning gardens to experience, with a variety of different areas to explore. 


Gravel path in with plant boarders either side

Little boy standing on the gravel path

On a hot day you might find the sprinklers on and I'll confess we all had a run through them!


Little boy running among some raised flowerbeds

The large rockery garden is a wonder for little ones, with its little paths and stepping stones.


Side view of Sizergh from the gardens

Little boy walking on a rockery path over some water

There's a huge pond where you can spot lots of wildlife and, if you're there at the right time, cygnets and chicks!


Little boy looking at a pond full of lilys

Large pond full of lilys

Pond with swans and their babies swimming

You can also stroll in the woodland, where you'll find spots to den build and a chance of spotting the livestock in the nearby fields.


Sheep in a field


Sizergh certainly has a lot to offer and if you're a fan of stately homes or castles its a must see. In fact even if you're not its still a must see! There's a such a variety of things to see and do!


Rear of property with raised steps

Now as always I like to share the important stuff with you! Car parking, toilets and the like so here we go!

  • There are plenty of toilets, along with baby changing and disabled facilities
  • The cafe is lovely, with freshly made, locally sourced food and has the most amazing ice cream
  • The car park is large but there is a charge for non-members
  • If you're carrying a backpack you'll need to hand it to a volunteer as you arrive, who will lock it away and give you a number to claim it back later
  • Baby slings and hip carriers are available for loan
We really enjoyed our time at Sizergh Castle and it's was amazing to think there's still a family living there. Aren't they incredibly lucky?

Exterior of sizergh with father and son walking towards it

Mummy Snowy Owl
xx

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