Explore this family-run historic house and the exciting adventure playgrounds within its gardens.
In the heart of the northern Lake District near Keswick is Mirehouse, built during the 17th century, it has been the Spedding family for over 300 years. The estate lies between mountain, fell and lakeshore, facing Bassenthwaite Lake with Dodd Wood and Skiddaw to the rear.
Although Mirehouse is privately owned, it is open to the public on particular days of the year, while the grounds and tearoom are open daily to visitors. If you visit to wander around the house itself you'll find literary and artistic collections including portraits, work from Francis Bacon and manuscripts from Wordsworth, Thomas Carlyle, John Constable and Southey.
The main attraction to Mirehouse are the four wooded adventure playgrounds that sit within its grounds - the Forest Castle, the Steeplechase, Squirrel Island and the Forest Hazard Course. Children will also enjoy the owl hunt in the house itself and exploring the Victorian nursery.
There are various lakeside walks through woods and parks, as well as sheltered landscaped gardens, heather maze and orchard to explore. Another popular feature is the Bee Garden! There is a lovely circular walk that leads round from the house, into the woods and along the lakeshore, and its common to see badgers and deer on this walk.
Within the grounds you'll also find the beautiful little church of St Bega hidden away.
