Beatrix Potter's former home in the Lake District is available to rent
It would be like renting a slice of history!
Beatrix Potter's Lake District home is up for rent – and you could be living in it.
If you've ever had one of her famous books read to you, you'll know that Beatrix Potter was not only a fantastic writer but one of the most beloved children's authors of all time.
Whether it's The Tale of Peter Rabbit, or stories about Jemima Puddle-Duck or Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, many of Beatrix Potter's stories were inspired by trips and later her home in the Lake District.
Castle Cottage sits in a hidden corner of the quaint village of Near Sawrey, Ambleside. It was where Beatrix and her husband, William lived for 30 years, from 1913 until she died in 1943 and features some lovely country living room ideas and stunning grounds.
The property is currently being let on behalf of the National Trust for £1,750pcm. Shall we take a little look?
Beatrix Potter's former Lake District home
It's quite a house isn't it? Castle Cottage is an 18th-century grade II-listed building that's pretty as a picture and boasts incredible views over the surrounding countryside.
Inside, you'll find five bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, a kitchen-diner, living room, utility and boot rooms, while outside has traditional outbuildings and beautiful lawn areas.
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
Sitting room
How about this for cosy living room ideas? During her time at Castle Cottage, Beatrix designed an extension with French windows out onto the garden, and this first-floor sitting room with its large bay window and sweet window seat.
We wonder if she would sit here, looking out at the Lakeland views?
The sitting room also has access to this outdoor staircase, which supposedly allowed Beatrix to escape from unwelcome visitors over the farmland towards Moss Eccles Tarn!
Kitchen
Despite its history, the cottage has included some modern kitchen ideas with a large range cooker, panelled island unit and retro-style Smeg fridge. It's the perfect spot to whip up some country-style treats!
Garden
Along with its south-facing views, whoever lives here will get to enjoy the stunning country gardens. Imagine watching the seasons change and spotting the local wildlife – we bet you'd see most of the animals featured in Beatrix's books from here.
'When Beatrix Potter died, she left Castle Cottage to the National Trust, along with 4,000 acres of land, 14 farms and flocks of Herdwick sheep,' says Jennifer Dixon of Savills Carlisle.
'The Trust has continued the author’s conservation work and now owns 91 hill farms in the area, some of which still have traditional Herdwick flocks. Without Beatrix Potter’s practical and tireless support, it is uncertain whether the Lake District would have remained the place of spectacular beauty it is today.'
If you'd like to find out more about renting Castle Cottage, head over to Savills.
Can you imagine a dreamier country getaway?
Laurie Davidson is a professional stylist, writer and content creator, who lives and breathes interiors. Having worked for some of the UK’s leading interior magazines, styled homes up and down the country and produced sets for TV shows, adverts and top brands, it’s safe to say Laurie has had a pretty exciting career. Find her on Instagram at @lifeofaninteriorstylist or over at lauriedavidson.co.uk
-
How to clean a washing machine with soda crystals — why experts say you should ditch bicarbonate of soda for this cheaper alternative
Live in a hard water area? Soda crystals will be your best friend
By Lauren Bradbury
-
This George at Asda chair is the perfect way to nail the Mid-Century look – and it's up to £750 cheaper than other options
How it compares to the high-end version
By Thea Babington-Stitt
-
The 5 home fragrances experts say are going out of fashion in 2025 — the scents that are on their way out
Plus, the aromas that are set to be the most popular this year
By Ellis Cochrane