Winding your way uphill from the edge of Coniston Water through Grizedale Forest, spectacular views emerge amongst the trees, until the ancient stone walls of Lawson Park are revealed set amidst its stunning farmhouse garden. 

Guests enter via the lower level of the three storey converted barn, stepping up into the vast double aspect open-plan seating / dining area and kitchen with its magnificent views onto the Furness Fells, a private meadow (where the Finnish-style sauna is located) and the gardens. For keen chefs, a recently-planted herb garden is within arm’s reach of the glazed double kitchen doors. Specially curated and commissioned British furniture and crafts are used to stylish effect throughout Lawson Park, mixing with contemporary and historic art works throughout. The dining area has a bespoke table by artist Wapke Feenstra, and 20th century furniture by architect Ernst Freud, father of Lucien and Clement.

On the first floor the spacious lounge commands another jaw-dropping panoramic view of the Furness Fells, Coniston Water and Lawson Park’s meadow, from its recently-completed glazed loggia by Sutherland Hussey Harris Architects. Wildlife including voles, stoats, red squirrels, snakes, bats, birds and countless butterflies can be spotted whilst enjoying a view that the eminent John Ruskin believed to be the best in Europe. Furnishings here include an antique dresser that once belonged to John Ruskin (who lived at the neighbouring Brantwood estate), a rotating loveseat and classic mid-century seating by Ercol upholstered in Scottish tweeds. 

A short open staircase leads to the mezzanine Lawson Park Library, home to a browsable collection of books and archives linked to the work of Grizedale Arts. Bespoke furnishings mix with mid-century finds to offer a cosy spot to spend some time with the eclectic collection, ranging from natural and local history to art theory, contemporary design and architecture.

From a first floor landing off the lounge, two spacious ensuite double bedrooms (one twin) offer views onto the mountains or the gardens, and downstairs (accessed via a short exterior walkway) are a further two generously-sized double ensuite bedrooms (one wheelchair accessible) furnished with an eclectic mixture of vintage 20th century finds and contemporary art.

The property offers three garden access points, each offering varied year-round routes around the carefully maintained and planted landscaping of around four acres, which has featured in numerous publications including House & Garden and Cumbria Life. In season, there are plentiful organic fruit and vegetables produced on site for guests to share and enjoy.

At the top of the meadow, a unique sculpture – ‘The Err’ by Philip Speakman – conceals within itself an authentic wood-lined Finnish-style sauna which is exclusively for guest use.

Lawson Park is set well away from the road and enjoys a tranquil and private setting, but with its attached residential wardens’ cottage, guests can be assured that discreet help is usually available if needed. The grounds include extensive private gardens and some shared areas, and parking close to the house is offered for up to five cars plus one disabled parking space. There is direct foot / bike access to Grizedale Forest’s many routes, and to Brantwood’s gardens via a nearby bridle way. The East of Lake road surrounding Coniston Water is just a fifteen minute walk downhill.

• Open plan double height, double aspect professional-specification kitchen and dining room with level access onto patio & main garden. 6 ring electric hob, double oven, microwave, dishwasher, double sink. (55 sq m)
• Four double bedrooms, including a wheel-chair accessible room, for up to eight guests (one twin, one twin / double option, two doubles). All bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms with W.C, shower & basin.
• Spacious double height lounge with panoramic views of the Furness Fells & Smart TV (Freesat) (65 sq m)
• Wheelchair accessible lift in main building from entry level ground floor to living room
• Additional wheelchair accessible ground floor W.C / cloakroom off entry hall
• Large utility / drying room off entry hall with washing machine & dryer
• Underfloor heating & double glazing throughout
• Outdoor seating areas with barbecue
• Disabled access parking space & parking for up to 5 cars
• Available at an extra charge:
  Additional housekeeping
  Guided tour of house & gardens
  Exclusive use of meadow sauna

Please note that Lawson Park is a no-smoking site, and due to the nature of its gardens and furnishings, Lawson Park does not accommodate parties, stag / hen groups, pets or children under 10 years of age. There are areas of open / running water in the garden and steep slopes, so children should be supervised at all times.