Last weekend I found myself visiting the romantic ruins of Lowther Castle near Penrith in The Lake District. The Castle stands in what was once a medieval Deer Park and both the grounds and the castle are an ongoing restoration project by the Lowther family. The last Lowther resident was the Yellow Earl,5th Earl of Lonsdale. Like his name suggests, he had a fondness for the colour yellow and he was actually a founder and first president of the AA (Automobile Association) ,who adopted the colour. Unfortunately his penchant for the Good life meant he could not keep up with the expenses of living in a castle, so the historic building was left a derelict shell for many years.
Happily today the Castle and gardens are being lovingly restored and are open to the public. Since my last visit 3 years ago, I can see the improvements that have been made, especially to the courtyard and gardens. Lowther castle is family friendly with lots of grounds and woodland to walk around and play in. Children should check out the new Lost Castle Adventure Playground in the woods , where all the family are encouraged to join in the fun and there is wheel chair access. The courtyard has a cafe and a gift shop. Dogs are welcome everywhere ( except in the Lost Castle) , including the shop and tea room.:)
As you can see I visited with Wil and Hugo the dog, as well as my brother, sister, my niece and nephew. We all enjoyed exploring Lowther. It was a fun afternoon out for all the family.:)
sunshine and celandines 
I had not heard of this place and it looks like a really good day out.
Where are you from? Its near Penrith in the Lakes and has only been opened to the public about 4 years.Really nice place to look round.x
Looks a beautiful place!
Yes it gets better every time I visit.x
I’d never heard of it either until recently and now I’ve seen it on your blog and over on the 365 project website as well! Looks like somewhere I’d enjoy exploring!
I think you would Louise.You really do need to visit the Lakes.:)
I think we were there briefly quite a few years ago and I don’t remember being impressed. Glad if they’re making improvements. It’s a lovely old place. 🙂
Yes the restorations are going well. Worth another visit.:)
It looks fab and I love places that welcomes dogs too x
I love that it is somewhere you can go with dogs…and even go in the cafe and shop! X
What a great place, some were I would love to visit.
Amanda xx
It is very scenic up there.And plenty of wildlife.Saw lots of fungi and a buzzard.
The castle must have been something to see when it was lived in. Was it a fire that was the problem?
Hi yes , so the family built the nearby Lochinch Castle and live in that.x