Lake District Secret Garden: Levens Hall Walk (4K, No Commentary)

Step into a living work of art at Levens Hall and Topiary Gardens, home to the world's oldest topiary garden, and one of the best garden walks in the UK. Located near the picturesque Lake District, this historic estate offers a wonderfully whimsical escape steeped in centuries of unique history and charm. 

The history of Levens Hall is as fascinating as its greenery. The main building is an Elizabethan mansion built around a 13th-century defensive pele tower. A popular local legend tells of a gypsy woman who cursed the hall, saying no male heir would inherit until the River Kent froze and a white fawn was born in the deer park – a curse that seemingly held true for 200 years until both events occurred in 1896.

The hall has been the much-loved family home of the Bagot family for over 300 years, contributing to the warm and friendly atmosphere that visitors often comment on. The red and white clothing behind the glass was worn by Charles Bagot as Page of Honour at the Coronation of George IV, on July 19th, 1821.
The costume consists of a cape, sword-belt, jacket and breeches, made in red and cream silk sating, trimmed with gold lace. Beautiful.

There are many trinkets of history on display through the home, including the sword worn by the Duke of Wellington, and even the clasp taken from Napoleon’s cloak after retreating at the battle of Waterloo. I could go on, but I am short on time today. Time to head outside…

We’ll step into the spectacular and extensive topiary gardens, first laid out in 1694 by French designer Guillaume Beaumont, who also worked on the gardens at Hampton Court, and wander among over 100 intricate, abstract, and whimsical shapes, including a "Judge's Wig," chess pieces, and various animals, all meticulously hand-clipped each year. They were in need of a bit of trimming at the time of our visit, and as old as these works of art are, their shapes have morphed over time. I will attest that all of it indeed, was marvelous. Nothing shouts England more than an incredible garden… and I do love gardens!🌸🇬🇧

If you ever find yourself in this little corner of Cumbria, you absolutely must stop here. Even the cafe was great. The gardens are some of the best I’ve ever seen, and it was an incredible experience to wander through them. I hope you enjoy it. Next time, we’ll continue our walk out into the countryside along the shores of Lake Windermere, through the woods and around the outside of Wray Castle. For now, sit back & enjoy the view.. and I’ll catch ya next time♥️

#levenshall #topiary #lakedistrict