A unique opportunity to rent the former home of Beatrix Potter has become available.
Castle Cottage in the Lake District, where the famous children’s author lived, is being let on behalf of the National Trust for £1,750 a month.
The property, which sits in a hidden corner of the quaint village of Near Sawrey, Ambleside was the main residence of Beatrix Potter and her husband, William Heelis, for 30 years between 1913 when she moved permanently to the Lake District, until her death in 1943.
Jennifer Dixon of Savills Carlisle, who is marketing the property on behalf of the National Trust, said: “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. 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.”
During the author’s time at Castle Cottage, she designed an extension with French windows out onto the garden and a first-floor sitting room with a large bay window, where she could appreciate the Lakeland views. This room also features access to an outdoor staircase that supposedly allowed her to escape from unwelcome visitors over the farmland towards Moss Eccles Tarn.
In addition to the first-floor sitting room, the cottage comes with five bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, dining kitchen, living room with doors out to the veranda and garden, utility and boot rooms. It enjoys south-facing views and provides easy access to some of the most picturesque locations in the Lake District National Park.
“The sitting room is offered with four chattels belonging to the National Trust including William Heelis’ bureau, bookcase, coffee table and a grandfather clock, purchased by Beatrix Potter”, adds Jenny. “Adjoining the house are extensive informal country gardens which embody the character that inspired some of Beatrix Potter’s classic works.
“Living in this beautiful home with its plentiful history is a rare privilege and we will be working closely with the National Trust to carefully select the next tenant.”
David Towler, National Trust Estate Manager said: “Castle Cottage is a significant part of Lake District history, set in the surroundings that inspired some of Beatrix Potter’s most beloved tales but also her love of the landscape and desire to protect it.
“Thanks to our members, supporters, volunteers and tenants, we are able to continue her work looking after over twenty per cent of the Lake District National Park for years to come.”
