Acorn Bank estate has much to offer the visitor – outstanding views across parkland towards the hills of the Lake District, woodland walks along the banks of Crowdundle Beck, industrial heritage and a working water mill.  In sight from anywhere in its walled gardens is the Penrith red sandstone house, parts of which date back to the 16th century.

The estate was first owned by the Knights Templar in 1228 before becoming (for almost 400 years) the home of Thomas Dalston and his descendants.  In 1950, its last owner, Yorkshire writer and traveller Dorothy Una Ratcliffe, gave the house, gardens and estate to the National Trust.

The 17th century walls at Acorn Bank shelter the National Trust’s largest collection of medicinal and culinary plants in a fascinating herb garden.  The traditional orchards are carpeted with Edwardian daffodils in spring and with wildflowers in early summer.

Beyond the walls, the new orchard contains an expanding collection of northern apples, in between which we grow fruit and vegetables in a mixture of beds and hotbeds.  Tucked away in the corner are beehives managed by Penrith Beekeepers Association and used for teaching beekeeping skills.

The Herb Garden, fully enclosed within 17th Century brick walls, is a space which feels intimate and reflective.  Sit under the Portuguese Quince tree with the Apothecary’s Rose in full flower, read a book, or just enjoy the peaceful, secure atmosphere while you wander through the collection of plants recording our connection with the plant world.

Images @ Acorn Bank NT