Allan Bank
About
Allan Bank is a stunning Georgian villa perched above the idyllic Lake District village of Grasmere, a place once called "the loveliest spot that man hath ever found" by William Wordsworth. The house offers a rare glimpse into the life of the poet and the co‑founder of the National Trust, Hardwicke Rawnsley, with a small, informal gallery and a dramatic indoor mural space that invites visitors to explore nature and art together. The surrounding gardens are a quintessential 19th‑century woodland retreat, featuring winding paths, majestic trees, and hidden nooks that reveal breathtaking views of Grasmere’s fells and lake. As well as the main house, visitors can enjoy a restored billiard room—once a chapel‑like feature with intricate stained‑glass windows—and a convenient indoor picnic area that makes rainy days enjoyable. Dogs on leads are warmly welcomed on the grounds, and the location is very accessible, with ground‑floor toilets and a level entrance. Self‑serve tea, coffee, and small snacks are available for a modest donation, and picnics are encouraged both inside the house and in the garden. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful walk in one of the world’s most famous pastoral settings, Allan Bank provides an intimate, immersive experience that brings the Lake District to life.
Highlights
- House
- Garden
- Billiard Room
- Indoor Picnic Space
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late summer to early autumn when the fells are lush, the lake is calm, and crowds are manageable
Tickets & pricing
Adult
£8.50
Child
£4.25
Family
£21.75