Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House

About

A Grade I listed building, Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House is a masterpiece of twentieth century design.

Perched overlooking Windermere with impressive views, it was designed by architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott in 1898 and completed in 1901. It was built as a holiday home and haven from bustling Manchester life, for brewer Sir Edward and Lady Holt and their five children.

Today you can explore the house at your leisure, join a talk or meet the Holts through digital augmented realities. See original features, furniture and objects by leading Arts and Crafts designers and studios including metalwork by WAS Benson, ceramics by William De Morgan and furniture by Stanley Webb Davies and Baillie Scott.

Soak up the atmosphere in Blackwell’s fireplace inglenooks and inviting window seats while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding Lake District.

Blackwell retains original decorative features, including a rare hessian wall-hanging in the Dining Room, leaf-shaped door handles, curious window catches, spectacular plasterwork, stained glass and carved wooden panelling.

Blackwell also offers an inviting Tea Room with quality, locally sourced produce, and The Shop has an enviable reputation for presenting work for sale by the best contemporary craft makers in the industry.

You can learn more about the house in the permanent gallery displays which present the story of the Arts and Crafts Movement, Blackwell as a school and a recreated Master Bedroom. Throughout the year there are changing temporary exhibitions, as well as seasonal activities and events. There is always something new to discover.


The Tea Room

Our inviting menu emphasises quality and the handmade, reflecting the philosophy of the Arts & Crafts Movement. On sunny days you can enjoy your meal outside on the terraces – listed as one of The Times’ ‘50 best places to eat alfresco’.

Electric bike charge point

Electric bike charge point

Benefits for Groups
Save on our standard admission charge for groups of 12 or more.
Visiting all three venues in one day may be too much, that’s why we allow groups to spread their visits over a 7 day period. To be eligible for the discount, all three visits must be made by the same group.
FREE coach parking during your visit and a further two hours FREE coach parking at Abbot Hall, to see the historic town of Kendal.
Coach welcomed by a member of staff.
Pre-booked catering options with reserved seating.
Bookable group talks, for differing interest and knowledge levels.
Early visits starting at Blackwell before we open to the general public.