Westmorland and Furness
Properties and events in Westmorland and Furness
Before heading out for your Heritage Open Days visit, please check entries for last-minute changes.
'Writing under stress': the meaning and materiality of pauper letters
Free workshops provided by Nottingham Trent University in association with Cumbria Archives. Pauper Letters are a fascinating historical source. Join our team of specialists to get ‘under the skin’ of these enigmatic documents.
Acorn Bank Watermill
Come and see the 19th Century mill in action and learn about the progress made in restoring the second waterwheel to working condition and and the stories of the people who lived and worked on the estate.
Appleby Heritage QR Code Trail
Enjoy a history themed trail throughout our town in Appleby! Look out for a QR Code poster on any of our heritage assets to see historic pictures and listen to a short audio clip which will tell you more about our history.
Brougham Hall Guided Tours
Walking tour around Brougham Hall Highlighting it history and future.
Cartmel Priory Gatehouse
Set in the picturesque village of Cartmel, this 14th century gatehouse is Grade II* listed and holds a fascinating and important past. This medieval monastic building along with the church, is all that remains of Cartmel's Augustinian Priory.
Castle Bank House
Usually a private home, this Grade II listed building, Castle Bank will be open for visitors. The garden, stables and art display make the house well worth a visit.
Castle Fine Arts: The Colour Makers House
The Colour Makers House (rebuilt in 1677) is home to a traditional artist's colour shop, and alchemy workshops show how paint and pigments are traditionally made.
ClayLife Pottery - It's no life with clay life!
Visit ClayLife Pottery within the historic old post office that's been converted into a working community pottery; where you can ask questions about pottery from artisan crafters and observe real time pottery activities. Have a go yourself?!
Crewel Work Company - The Athelstan Project
At The Crewel Work Company, we are incredibly excited to be involved in a truly special project that brings together British history, research and the art of embroidery.
Drybeck Hall
Drybeck Hall dates from 1679. It is Grade II listed and a typical Cumbrian cross passage house with attached bank barn.
Everyday Quaker Life
Kendal's Grade II* listed Quaker Meeting House will be open for visitors to experience a 'mini' Meeting for Worship, see the Quaker Tapestry (much of which focuses on everyday Quaker life) and to explore the building and Peace garden.
Exploring Heritage Through Art: Abbot Hall Highlights
Curator tour(s): highlights of Abbot Hall Art Gallery – join Keeper of Collections Niall Hodson on a special tour of Abbot Hall Art Gallery. This 30-minute walkaround tour will introduce visitors to some of the highlights of Abbot Hall’s renowned art.
From Mill Workers to Makers: Farfield Mill
Celebrate Farfield Mill’s 25th anniversary during Heritage Open Days. Explore displays and exhibits revealing everyday working life through the ages, and discover stories of former mill workers and local history.
From Ruin to Revival: film screening plus a talk from Accredited Conservator-Restorer, John Wynn-Griffiths
Join us at Sizergh for a screening of our new short film for 2026, 'From Ruin to Revival'. This will be followed by an insightful talk from ICON Accredited Furniture Conservator-Restorer, John Wynn-Griffiths.
Guided Tours of Kendal Parish Church
Take a tour round Kendal Parish Church, Kendal's oldest building and the largest Church in the County. Learn some of its history its secrets and its stories as we take you round on a fun informative tour. Children's activities available.
Heritage tour - Allan Bank, Grasmere's first villa
Join a historic building conservator for a unique glimpse into the different phases of Allan Bank, Grasmere's first villa, from Wordsworth's time as the first tenant in 1808, to the present day.
Hidden Histories: Lives between the pages
Hawkshead Grammar School Museum and Library will be open free of charge with talks in our Historic Library examining the hidden stories between the pages of our book collection, and how we care for the books today.
Holy Trinity Church Kendal
Display of clergy copes and stoles.
Holy Trinity, Kendal Parish Church Bell Tower
Visit our magnificent Bell Tower. Climb to the ringing room and then to the bell chamber in the company of our Bell Captain and team of ringers.
Kendal Mayor's Parlour History Talks
This is a chance to view some of Kendal’s beautiful heritage items and to learn about the history of the town and how it has developed over the years. A relaxed talk with the opportunity to ask questions and handle some of the items.