Townend National Trust
A beautifully preserved 17th-century Lake District farmhouse, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the Browne family.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Townend National Trust
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved 17th-century Lake District farmhouse, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the Browne family.
"A hidden gem for history lovers, offering a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century life."
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth history and engaging stories from guides.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the car park and exploring the grounds are best enjoyed with good footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
17th Century Farmhouse Charm
The Farmhouse Interior
Step back in time in this remarkably preserved farmhouse, filled with original furniture and household items.
Browne Family Archive
Exhibition Areas
Uncover fascinating stories of social history, scandals, and life in London through the Browne family's extensive archive.
Peaceful Gardens
Gardens
Enjoy a tranquil stroll through well-kept gardens, offering a serene escape and lovely countryside views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Prepare for a Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth history and engaging stories from guides.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the car park and exploring the grounds are best enjoyed with good footwear.
🍼 Pram Access Limited
You'll need to carry babies; prams must be left in the courtyard.
☕ No On-site Cafe
Bring your own food and drinks as there are no facilities on-site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth history and engaging stories from guides.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the car park and exploring the grounds are best enjoyed with good footwear.
🍼 Pram Access Limited
You'll need to carry babies; prams must be left in the courtyard.
☕ No On-site Cafe
Bring your own food and drinks as there are no facilities on-site.
🖼️ See Historic Art
Admire 'Sheep and Ram' by Longmire and other displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Townend for its remarkably well-preserved 17th-century farmhouse and the fascinating insights into the Browne family's lives, brought to life by knowledgeable guides. The peaceful gardens and scenic countryside walks are also highlights. Some note the lack of on-site facilities and limited accessibility for prams.
"We booked the 3pm tour and Gary was the chap who took us around the property. It was a really interesting tour with plenty of facts and Gary was a great tour guide, he was funny, very informative and answered all our questions. It was well worth a visit."
Stephanie Corbett
"A small but remarkably well preserved dwelling well maintained by the National Trust. If you are in the area it could be worth calling by but if you are staying locally the walk up to it will make the visit all the better as you get to see the countryside close up."
Chris Dale
"Townend was a lovely old farm house that we got to visit while travelling to the Lake District.
Doesn’t have a coffee shop, so bring some food with you.
Has a car park that is a small walk from the house.
If you come with a baby in a pram, you'll have to carry the baby in the house and leave the pram in the courtyard."
Sergiu Dumitru
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Townend is located in Troutbeck, near Ambleside. There is a car park available, but it requires a short walk to reach the farmhouse itself. Visitors often enjoy this walk as it offers scenic views of the Lake District countryside.
Yes, there is a car park provided for visitors. However, it's important to note that it's a short walk from the car park to the house, so factor this into your visit.
While specific public transport details can vary, many visitors to the Lake District utilize local bus services to reach areas like Troutbeck. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules in advance.
Many visitors find the walk from the car park offers lovely opportunities for capturing the farmhouse nestled within the landscape. The surrounding countryside also provides beautiful backdrops.
The farmhouse itself has limited accessibility due to its historic nature. Prams must be left in the courtyard, and visitors with babies will need to carry them. It's best to contact the National Trust directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Booking a guided tour in advance is highly recommended to ensure you get a spot and experience the full history of Townend.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Admission fees apply, and it's recommended to check the National Trust website for current pricing. National Trust members typically get free entry.
While guided tours are highly recommended for the best experience, there may be opportunities to explore the grounds independently. Check with the National Trust for details on self-guided access.
National Trust members receive free entry. For non-members, it's worth checking the National Trust website for any special offers or family ticket options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Townend offers a glimpse into 17th-century Lake District life with original furniture, household items, and the fascinating Browne family archive. The gardens are also a lovely place to explore.
Children can enjoy exploring the historic farmhouse and gardens. The guided tours can be engaging, but younger children might find longer explanations challenging.
Townend is a 17th-century farmhouse that was home to the Browne family for generations. It's known for its well-preserved interiors and the extensive archive detailing their lives. 
There are no on-site cafes or extensive facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks. Restroom facilities may be available, but it's best to confirm with the National Trust.
The gardens are described as peaceful and well-kept, offering a lovely space to relax and enjoy the surrounding countryside views after touring the farmhouse.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary within National Trust properties. It's generally best to check for signage or ask staff on arrival. Non-flash photography is often permitted in historic houses.
Many visitors enjoy photographing the farmhouse exterior, especially from the approach path, and the charming gardens. The interior, if permitted, offers unique shots of historic artifacts.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the National Trust's drone policy before flying.
Visitors often capture the rustic charm of the stone farmhouse, the surrounding Lake District scenery, and details of the historic interiors and gardens.
The approach to the house offers a classic view. The gardens provide a more natural and serene setting for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical considerations for families include the limited accessibility for prams – you'll need to carry babies. Also, there's no on-site cafe, so packing snacks and drinks is essential for a comfortable visit. The walk from the car park is manageable for most families, but ensure everyone has comfortable shoes.
❤️ Couples and History Buffs
The well-preserved interiors, filled with original artifacts, provide a unique opportunity to step back in time. The peaceful gardens offer a romantic setting for a quiet stroll after exploring the house. It's a place to immerse yourselves in the past without the overwhelming crowds often found at larger attractions.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
The walk from the car park and the serene gardens provide a pleasant environment for personal exploration. It's a destination where you can truly absorb the atmosphere and appreciate the details of a bygone era at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Browne Family: A Glimpse into 17th Century Life
+1Visitors often remark on how the knowledgeable National Trust staff and volunteers bring the history of the Browne family to life. Their engaging stories and insights make the experience more than just looking at old objects; it's about understanding the people who lived there. This personal touch is frequently highlighted in reviews, making Townend a 'hidden gem' for history enthusiasts.
The preservation of Townend is a significant achievement, ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate this slice of history. The conservation efforts, including the meticulous care of the Browne family archive, are crucial in maintaining the authenticity and educational value of the site.
+1Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
The walk from the car park to the house is also an integral part of the Townend experience for many. It allows visitors to appreciate the rural setting and the natural beauty of the area. This short trek is often mentioned as a pleasant prelude to exploring the historic dwelling, adding to the overall sense of discovery.
For those who enjoy photography, the exterior of the stone farmhouse set against the Lakeland landscape, and the charming details within the gardens, present excellent opportunities. The natural beauty of the location complements the historical significance of the house, making for a well-rounded visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit