It had been a fabulous birthday. However, all too soon it was coming to an end. At least however, we could prolong it a little longer with a visit to Sizergh Castle on the way back. Pottering around a National Trust property was ideal for Sarah, since she was struggling with blisters following our Wray Castle visit and in particular the Cat Bells walk on the previous days.

So, after one last stroll around Keswick we set off for Kendal. When we arrived at Sizergh Castle, it might have been a Monday lunchtime, but the car park was extremely busy. We decided to have something to eat first, and then made our way over to the house.

Sizergh Castle is (still) the residence of the Strickland family, as it has been for over 750 years.

When you enter the home, everywhere you look there is a sense of history.

Many of the rooms are covered with oak-panels, and of course paintings of significance.

  

The Strickland’s played important roles in many major historical events, and as a result have had strong links with royalty. From the Battle of Agincourt to the War of the Roses, through to the Second World War.

Perhaps most importantly they were staunch CAtholic supporters of the Jacobite Stuarts and on the side of Yorkists during the English Civil Wars.

The family however fell on relatively hard-times in the 18th and 19th centuries. This is to our benefit, for it is one of the main reasons why the house remained relatively unchanged. It did mean that they had to sell every item in the most impressive room, the Inlaid Chamber. This included the panelling which was sold to the Victoria & Albert Room. Thankfully, they have loaned it back and it is back in its original place.

  

  

After leaving the house we visited the stumpery.

We then made our way towards the kitchen garden.

We then moved on to the rock garden from which there were some excellent views of the house.

  

Further round the house we came across the mirror lake.

Continuing round we passed the hot wall.

  

Then the Dutch garden.

Finally we popped in to the Great Barn.

Sizergh Castle is a house with plenty to see and do. It is certainly worth a visit – recommended!