Derwent Island House

Derwent Island House is a Georgian-style mansion located on a wooded island in Derwent Water, featuring symmetrical east and west wings with a central three-story tower. The property sits on about seven acres of land, with the building commanding views across the lake and surrounded by mature trees that frame the water.

The island was owned by Fountains Abbey until 1539, when the Crown claimed it during the dissolution of English monasteries under King Henry VIII. In the 19th century, architect Anthony Salvin redesigned the house in 1844 for industrialist Henry Marshall, creating the neoclassical structure seen today.

The island gained fame for hosting elaborate water celebrations where local people watched mock naval battles staged from the shore. These events turned the private house into a focal point for entertainment that involved the wider community around the lake.

Access to the house requires taking a guided canoe trip across the lake, which means planning around water conditions and daylight hours. The interior tour lasts about 45 minutes, so visitors should allow time for both the boat journey and exploring the rooms inside.

The original owner Joseph Pocklington built a small fort on the island and staged elaborate mock naval battles with cannon fire for entertainment. These theatrical events became famous locally and drew attention from visitors across the region who came to witness the spectacles on the water.

Location: Keswick

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/borrowdale-and-derwent-water/features/derwent-island-and-house

GPS coordinates: 54.59120,-3.14484

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48