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Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts House

Blackwell, Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3JT

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Tel015396 37940

About

Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house is a rare architectural gem in the heart of the Lake District and offers a perfectly preserved snapshot of early 20th-century living.

Designed by noted architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, this stunning Grade I listed building is one of the UK’s finest examples of Arts & Crafts architecture and with remarkable views towards the Coniston Fells, it’s a house that never fails to inspire.

Completed in 1901, the house was originally built as a holiday home and haven from bustling Manchester life, for brewer Sir Edward and Lady Holt and their five children.

From 1941, it became a school for Huyton College in Liverpool, then Blackwell School until 1976.

Step back in time

Today you can explore the house and discover the Arts & Crafts story, what Blackwell was like as a family home and hear of fond memories of many students who grew up there.

See original features, furniture and objects by leading Arts & 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 a Contemporary Gift Shop which has an enviable reputation for presenting work for sale by the best contemporary craft makers in the industry.

Click here to book

To keep up to date with all our events, you can join our e-newsletter or visit blackwell.org.uk to find out what’s on.

Car parking is free

Book tickets at blackwell.org.uk or follow us on facebook and instagram.

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Guide Prices

Please visit the Blackwell website for pricing information.

Opening Times

Season (1 Apr 2026 - 31 Oct 2026)
Day	Times
Monday - Saturday	10:00	- 17:00
Sunday	Closed

Winter Hours (1 Nov 2026 - 31 Mar 2027)
Day	Times
Monday - Saturday	10:00	- 16:00
Sunday	Closed

* Blackwell is open Monday – Saturday.
April – October: 10am-5pm
November-March: 10am-4pm

Blackwell will be closed 25 and 26 December.

Facilities

Other

Facilities for assistance dogs
Single level / Step-free

Booking & Payment Details

Credit cards accepted (no fee)

Catering

On-site catering

Children

Baby changing facilities
Children welcome

Groups

Education/study area
Facilities for educational visits
Facilities for groups

Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities

Facilities for conferencing

Parking

Free Parking

Property Facilities

Dogs not accepted (except guidedogs)
Gift shop
Public toilets
Smoking not allowed

Site Features

Regional Tourist Board Member

Target Markets

Accepts groups
Coach parties accepted

Access Information

PARKING

Designated accessible parking: Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.

Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance: There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance.

BUILDING ENTRANCE

Step-free entrance: There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance. This may be via a ramp or lift.

ACCESS TO KEY AREAS

Lift: There are lift(s) available. An evacuation chair should also be available in case of emergency.

Step-free access to all or most areas: There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift. As a minimum, there is step-free access to an accessible toilet and at least one food and beverage outlet, where available.

RESTAURANT / DINING ROOM / BAR

Dietary requirements catered for: A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements.

Table service as standard or on request: Table service is available as standard or on request.

Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet: There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.

GENERAL

Disability awareness / equality training: Disability awareness / equality training is provided for staff.

Facilities for assistance dogs: Facilities are available for assistance dogs e.g. water bowls, toilet area, within the grounds of the venue or nearby.

Seating at regular intervals: Seating is available at regular intervals.

Wheelchair-accessible viewing area: A wheelchair-accessible viewing area with step-free access is available providing an optimal vantage-point to view performances, presentations or activities.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional detailed accessibility information:Call 01539 637940 OR info@lakelandarts.org.uk OR https://lakelandarts.org.uk/blackwell/facilities-access/ Lift provides stair-free access to the first floor. However, due to the historic nature of the house, some rooms have steps and are not accessible.

This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.

TripAdvisor

Awards

Visit England VistEngland VAQAS Gold 2018
Cumbria Awards Member of Cumbria Tourism 2016

Map & Directions

Map Link

Click here to view map

Road Directions

Follow A5074 from Bowness, Lyth Valley Road, then take B5360 located 1 mile from Bowness. Blue RAC signs provided.

Public Transport Directions

The nearest railway station is Windermere, which is 2 miles away.

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