Allan Bank

About

A unique National Trust house with a relaxed atmosphere, where views of Grasmere lake and fells are seen from bay windows and woodland grounds. Once home to National Trust co-founder Canon Rawnsley, it’s now only partially decorated and a great place to craft, draw and paint. Red squirrels play in the grounds, there are picnic spots indoors and out, space for the kids to run free, room to sit by the fire and read a book, and tea and coffee on donation. Lake-shore strolls and adventurous fell-top rambles can be accessed from Grasmere village. Note: limited blue badge parking only on site at Allan Bank. Follow directions on foot from the Inn at Grasmere in village.

Make the most of your day

Indoors: Allan Bank is stocked with pens, paper and paints in the art room; you can pick up a board game and spread out on the floor; in the study there are binoculars to watch the wildlife and red squirrels out of the large bay windows; a Mountain Heritage Library is stocked with Mountaineering books; or pick up a book to read by the open fire.

Outside: Deckchairs on the front lawn, placed so that you can enjoy the views; woodland trail with a wild play area; and walks around Grasmere.

Eating and shopping

Tea and coffee available on donation. There is no catering offer, but picnics are very welcome inside and out. The National Trust Church Stile shop is located opposite Grasmere Church and sells gifts for your home and garden, practical items for exploring the outdoors and local products in a Grade II listed 17th-century building.

Dogs on leads welcome inside and out.