Lowther Castle is home to dramatic ruins, scenic gardens and one of the best adventure playgrounds in the Lake District! It’s well worth a day trip during your visit to The Lakes.

Start your visit by exploring the castle’s impressive ruins before heading into the exhibition to learn more about its past. Lowther has been passed down through generations – learn more about the people and animals that have called it home over the years.

Gardens

There are 130 acres of gardens to explore during your trip to Lowther, so you might need multiple visits to appreciate it in all it’s glory. The gardens were formally laid out in the 17th century, though they’ve had many iterations in the years since.

Today, you can enjoy an abundance of carefully manicured boarders and carefully clipped yew trees. There’s also a rose garden inspired by sleeping beauty as well as various summerhouses and wildflower meadows.

If you only have time for exploring one area, you must check out the Western Terrace. It’s the perfect viewpoint for taking in the Lowther Valley and the Lake District’s mountainous scenery.

The Lost Castle Adventure Playground

Younger members of the family will have a ball in the Lost Castle Playground. The impressive play area is one of the largest in the country and built to resemble Lowther Castle itself.

There is a wide variety of play equipment to keep little ones entertained. Kids will want to spend hours tackling the climbing frames, crawl-throughs, turrets, zipwires and slides.

There’s also a toddlers play area, sandpit and plenty of places for parents to sit back and relax.

Food and Drink

Lowther Castle is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and you’ll find the perfect spot amidst the sprawling grounds.

If you’d prefer someone else to do the cooking, we highly recommend the Cafe for a bite to eat. The friendly team serve a range of delicious dishes, which can be enjoyed inside or out in the courtyard.

If you can’t prize the kids away from the play area, Into the Woods might be a better option. Here you can enjoy a simpler affair of warming soups, sandwiches and ice creams at one of the outdoor tables.