Photo: David Purchase CC BY-SA 2.0 Source Cropped to fit
Isel Hall is a Grade I listed historic house in Cumbria, and a member of Historic Houses. Read about its history, architecture and gardens, plus how to visit and what's nearby.
About Isel Hall
Isel Hall is a Grade I listed historic house standing above the River Derwent in Cumbria, two miles from Bassenthwaite Lake.
The Lawson family held the house for centuries, shaping its character through that long tenure.
South-facing terraces overlook the river and Lakeland fells, with Skiddaw visible in the distance.
Historic Houses members can visit free of charge on selected open days between April and October.
Read more on WikipediaHistory of Isel Hall
Isel Hall's origins lie in the medieval period. The house was the seat of the Lawson family for centuries, a tenure that shaped its character and left its mark on the building's form. Its Grade I listing reflects the survival of early fabric within later additions, a pattern common to Cumbria's border houses. The hall remains in private hands, opening to visitors on a limited number of dates each year.
Architecture of Isel Hall
The hall is thought to incorporate a medieval pele tower, a defensive feature typical of houses in this part of Cumbria, with later domestic wings added around it.
Gardens & grounds at Isel Hall
The terraced grounds face south over the Derwent, with rhododendrons on the riverbanks and views across to Skiddaw and the Lakeland fells. The gardens are at their best in spring.
Facilities
Plan your visit to Isel Hall
Nearest station: Aspatria Rail Station (4.8 miles)
Open to Historic Houses members and paying guests on selected dates April through October; check official website for current dates and access conditions.
Admission
Free entry to Historic Houses members (show valid membership card)
Places to visit near Isel Hall
Wordsworth House and Garden
View Wordsworth House and Garden on heritage mapIreby Old Church
View Ireby Old Church on heritage mapCastlerigg stone circle
View Castlerigg stone circle on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Isel Hall there are 1 historic properties, including 1 historic house.
Within 10 miles of Isel Hall there are 3 historic properties, including 2 historic houses, across Churches Conservation Trust, Historic Houses and National Trust sites.
Within 20 miles of Isel Hall there are 9 historic properties, including 5 historic houses and 2 landscapes, across Historic Houses, National Trust and Churches Conservation Trust sites.
Stay nearby
Make more of your visit with an overnight stay near Isel Hall.
Find places to stay nearby Affiliate link. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.Facts
A Grade I listed Lawson family house above the Derwent, open only on a handful of days each year to Historic Houses members and paying guests.
- Type
- historic house
- Location
- Cumbria, England
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