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Lowther Castle(See also Lowther and Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre)
The building site was that of the former Lowther Hall, which burned to the ground in 1720. Mary Queen of Scots, stayed at the Hall on her journey to her execution, while Queen Victoria stayed in the castle.
In the Lowther estate grounds is the "Lowther Oak", a tree supposedly holding the power to provide good fortune to the Lonsdale family. According to legend, if a branch of the tree touched the ground, bad luck would follow. The estate grounds now serve as a public park with activities for children. Here the Lowther Carriage Driving Trials and Country Fair take place in August. In the former walled garden of the castle grounds is the Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre. Lowther Castle is located 4 miles south of Penrith. Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre Lowther Parklands Photos courtesy of Graeme Dougal and Julian Thurgood © 1997-2008 by The Cumbria Directory. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from The Cumbria Directory is prohibited. |
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Lowther Castle was commissioned by the
5th Earl of Lonsdale, Sir Hugh Lowther, and built by architect Robert Smirke, now
known for his work on the British Museum. Constructed from 1806 to 1811 in mostly the decorated
Gothic cathedral style of the 14th century, it overlooks the village of Askham. The
castle was considered, at the time, to be an elegant mansion. Mullioned windows, pinnacles,
towers, turrets, and battlements were just some of its excesses. Inside was carved oak pannelling
and a brass-railed staircase.
By the 1930's, the upkeep on the
castle proved too expensive for the family's pocketbook. They moved to Askham Hall. In the
1950's, the interior of the castle was taken apart and only the walls were left standing as a
reminder of its former glory.