Hill Top Farm

Hill Top Farm is a country house with traditional stone buildings including byres, barns, and storage lofts spread across extensive pasture land. The structures are arranged as a working farmstead with multiple functional buildings set within rolling fields.

Beatrix Potter acquired the property in 1905 using money made from her children's books and began expanding it over the following years. Her purchase marked a shift toward farming and conservation work that became central to her later life.

The farm keeps a flock of Herdwick sheep that has roots in the property's past, reflecting farming practices tied to the region. Visitors walking the grounds see these animals grazing as part of the working landscape.

Entry is by timed tickets that should be booked ahead of time, especially during busy periods, as visitor numbers are managed to protect the buildings. Wear comfortable shoes since you will walk through rooms and around the surrounding grounds.

Each room remains arranged according to detailed instructions left by the original owner, preserving the placement of furniture and personal items exactly as they were during her time. This careful attention to detail lets visitors see the house as it was actually lived in.

Location: Claife

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Operator: National Trust

Address: near Sawrey, Ambleside LA22 0LF

Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00-17:00; Saturday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +441539436269

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/hill-top

GPS coordinates: 54.35170,-2.97045

Latest update: January 9, 2026 12:38