Garden Ghosts

Strolling the gardens of Lowther Castle you may come across the ghosts of those who have walked before.  Since 1150, through thick and thin, the Lowther family has ruled the North of Cumbria, their wealth accumulated through the development of coal.    Phantom spirits flourish throughout their vast estate. 
  • Sir John Lowther (1605-1675) - the first Viscount, formally laid out the gardens, fathered 10 children by his first marriage and four by a second marriage
  • William Wordsworth (1770-1850) - English poet.   The Lowther estate owed his family £5000 in legal fees and outstanding wages 
  • Sir James Lowther (1736-1802) - Earl of Lonsdale, known locally as "Wicked Jimmy", a skinflint with a natural flare for political skulduggery 
  • JMW Turner (1775-1851) - outstanding Romantic painter whose Lowther Sketchbook can be viewed in Tate Britain, London
  • Robert Smirke (1781-1867) - leading architect of the Greek Revival style - he began work on the designs for Lowther Castle in 1806
www.lowthercastle.org 

The gardens that enclose the ruins of Lowther Castle are mystical in winter.

Frost clings to clipped topiary surrounding the naturalistic planting of the Perennials of a Parterre Garden, reflecting the derelict walls of the Castle.  The Great Yew Avenue leads to magnificent views, summerhouses, wildflower meadows and tree hives for wild bees.

 


Renovations of the gardens began in 2008.    Dan Pearson, award winning designer, devised a twenty year plan to reflect the secrets of these gardens.   The considerable shape and form create mystery and secrecy.

The entrance is guarded by a magnificent dragon.    Clipped hornbeam sentinels stand to attention in the Courtyard - imitating the shape of the Castle.

On a cold, crisp winters day there are 130 acres to explore - a treat for every gardener.

Gorgeous planting and ghosts of the past too!   





 



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