Allan Bank National Trust
If you’re planning a stay at Kent Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands, you’re perfectly positioned to explore one of the Lake District’s most fascinating properties. Allan Bank National Trust in Grasmere isn’t your typical National Trust house – and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
A House That Started with Controversy
Picture this: it’s 1805, and a wealthy Liverpool lawyer named John Crump decides to build his dream home in what many consider the most beautiful spot in Grasmere. The locals weren’t happy. In fact, one particular neighbour was absolutely furious – the famous poet William Wordsworth.
Wordsworth called the new house “a temple of abomination” because its bright pink walls blocked his perfect view from nearby Dove Cottage. He was so upset about this “eyesore” that he campaigned against it being built. Little did he know that just three years later, he’d be eating his words – literally moving into the very house he’d criticised!
Outraged, he thundered, ” A wretched creature. A Liverpool merchant, Mr Crump, has at last begun his long-impending threats in execution. When you next enter the sweet paradise of Grasmere, you will see staring at you in the face… a temple of abomination in which Mr and Mrs Crump are to be enshrined.”
When Life Forces You to Eat Your Words
By 1808, Wordsworth had a problem. His family was growing (his third child, Thomas, had just been born), and Dove Cottage was bursting at the seams. Despite his earlier complaints, Allan Bank was the best option available in Grasmere.
So William, his wife Mary, and their three children – John, Thomas, and Dora – packed up and moved into the house he’d once hated. But wait, there’s more! They weren’t alone. Living with them were Mary’s sister Sara Hutchinson and two of the most famous writers of the time: Thomas de Quincey and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Coleridge spent the winter of 1808-9 at Allan Bank while he was separated from his wife, and De Quincy, parenially high on opium, also so stayed for several troublesome weeks.
Imagine the dinner conversations in that household!
Another later occupant of Allan Bank was Dr Arnold of Rugby School, and the father of poet Matthew Arnold.
Whilst he was there, William planted trees in the garden as well as entertaining numerous guests.
During their two-year stay, the family expanded with the births of Catherine and William. But Allan Bank had a serious problem that would eventually drive them away.
Where Wordsworth’s Guide to the Lakes Was Born
Allan Bank holds a special place in literary history beyond its famous residents.
As the most significant Georgian villa in the vale, it was here that Wordsworth wrote his celebrated Guide to the Lakes — widely regarded as the first guidebook to fully define the culture, people, traditions, and natural beauty of the Lake District landscape.
The ideas that took shape within these walls helped spark a conservation movement that would eventually lead to the Lake District becoming a National Park. Radical thinking for its time, and a legacy that endures to this day.
The House with Impossible Chimneys
Here’s where the story gets almost comical. Allan Bank was built in such an exposed position that the wind hit it from all sides. This created a nightmare scenario with the chimneys – they smoked so badly that on stormy days, most rooms became completely uninhabitable.
Picture poor Wordsworth trying to write his poetry while smoke billowed through the house. On one particularly awful night, the entire household had to huddle together in Wordsworth’s study – the only room they could bear to be in – and even then, they could barely see each other through the smoke!
Fed up with the smoking chimneys and growing disputes with their landlord, the Wordsworths finally threw in the towel in 1811 and moved to the rectory next to Grasmere church.
A National Trust Pioneer Finds His Home
Fast forward to 1915, and Allan Bank found a very different kind of famous resident. Canon Rawnsley – one of the three co-founders of the National Trust – bought the property as his retirement home.
This connection makes Allan Bank historically significant not just for literature, but for conservation history too.
Rawnsley chose Allan Bank partly because of those same spectacular views that had attracted John Crump over a century earlier.
The panoramic vistas across the Vale of Grasmere remain one of the property’s greatest draws today.
Why Allan Bank is Different from Other National Trust Properties
When you visit Allan Bank today, don’t expect the usual roped-off rooms filled with period furniture. This place is refreshingly different.
Many rooms are barely furnished, giving the house an almost ghost-like quality that actually adds to its charm.
But here’s what makes it special: you can truly relax here. Sit in the chairs, read newspapers, make yourself a cup of tea, and imagine what it would be like to live in this historic house.
It’s like stepping into the past, but with permission to actually touch things and make yourself comfortable.
The views that caused all the original controversy are still absolutely stunning. Looking out over Grasmere, you can understand why people fought both for and against this house being built.
The house combines a small informal art gallery with a giant indoor mural space, making it a genuinely creative place to explore.
Displays and exhibitions change regularly, including a new display exploring Wordsworth’s lasting influence on how we think about landscape and conservation.
There’s plenty of space to sit and take in the famous views, and the atmosphere is relaxed enough that you’ll want to linger.
Tea and coffee are available, and picnics are welcome in the back kitchen — or butler’s pantry, to give it its proper name.
Dogs are very much part of the picture too. Four-legged friends are welcome in the garden and the downstairs rooms of the house, making Allan Bank a genuinely great day out for the whole family.
Recent Restoration and Wildlife
During the 2021 pandemic, the Allan Bank team tackled some serious maintenance issues that had been building up for years.
Woodworm had damaged structural timbers in the cellar and ground floor, requiring careful restoration work.
The team used traditional methods wherever possible, including rebuilding Coleridge’s bedroom ceiling with original lath and plaster techniques.
They even managed to salvage original timber and replace floorboards in their exact historical locations – talk about attention to detail!
One of the unexpected delights of visiting Allan Bank is the red squirrels that regularly visit the garden.
These charming creatures have made the property grounds their home, adding a wonderful wildlife element to your visit.
Stargazing in the Lake District
Here’s something many visitors don’t know: Allan Bank is officially recognised as a ‘Dark Sky Discovery Site’ – one of only two in all of Cumbria. This means that on clear winter evenings, light pollution is minimal, making it an incredible spot for stargazing.
Imagine standing in the same garden where Wordsworth once walked, looking up at stars that inspired some of England’s greatest poetry. It’s a magical experience that connects you to both the natural beauty and literary heritage of the Lake District.
What’s New at Allan Bank National Trust
Starting April 1st, 2025, visitors can explore three brand new exhibitions at the newly refreshed Allan Bank.
These exhibitions will dive deep into Wordsworth’s influence on land conservation in the Lake District – a topic that feels especially relevant given Canon Rawnsley’s connection to the National Trust.
It’s fascinating to think about how Wordsworth’s love for this landscape eventually helped shape the conservation movement that protects it today.
Planning Your Visit from Kent Bank Holiday Cottage
Allan Bank makes an excellent day trip from your base at Kent Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands. The journey to Grasmere is scenic and straightforward, taking you through some of the most beautiful countryside in England.
The property is open year-round, but each season offers something different.
Spring brings fresh green landscapes and active red squirrels, summer offers the best weather for enjoying those famous views, autumn provides stunning colours across the valley, and winter delivers the clearest skies for stargazing.
Whether you’re a literature lover, history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful places with great stories, Allan Bank offers a unique glimpse into Lake District life both past and present.
Ready to Explore the Lake District?
Allan Bank is just one of many incredible properties and landscapes waiting to be discovered during your Lake District holiday.
From your comfortable base at Kent Bank Holiday Cottage, you’re perfectly positioned to explore Grasmere and the surrounding fells.
Looking for a pet-friendly Lake District Holiday Cottage with easy access to Grasmere and other literary landmarks? Enquire about Kent Bank Holiday Cottage here and start planning your Lake District adventure today.
The beauty of staying at Kent Bank Holiday Cottage is that you get the best of both worlds – peaceful accommodation away from the busiest tourist areas, but with easy access to must-see attractions like Allan Bank. It’s the perfect setup for a truly memorable Lake District experience.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) What is Allan Bank, and why is it famous?
Allan Bank is a Grade II listed historic villa in Grasmere, best known as the former home of poet William Wordsworth and National Trust founder Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley. It is celebrated for its literary connections and inspiring lake and fell views.
2) Can the public visit Allan Bank?
Yes, Allan Bank is owned by the National Trust and open to the public. Unlike many restored historic homes, it offers an informal visitor experience with art spaces, woodland walks, and creative activities, rather than rooms set up in period style.
3) What can I do when visiting Allan Bank?
Visitors can explore the woodland grounds, spot red squirrels, enjoy panoramic Lakeland scenery, view informal art exhibits, participate in creative projects, picnic indoors or outside, and relax by the fire. Seasonal events and family activities are also hosted regularly.
4) Are dogs allowed at Allan Bank?
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome both outdoors and inside the downstairs area of Allan Bank, making it a dog-friendly attraction in the Lake District.
5) Is Allan Bank wheelchair accessible?
Allan Bank has some steps and uneven surfaces due to its historic nature and hillside location, which may limit access for those with mobility needs. It’s advisable to contact the site in advance or check the National Trust website for detailed accessibility information.
Finally
Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call at 07785944194. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dates for your stay.
Our friendly team makes the whole process easy, so you can focus on looking forward to your relaxing holiday near Grasmere.
5 key takeaways
1) Allan Bank is the Lake District‘s most historically layered National Trust property.
Once despised by Wordsworth, then lived in by him, later home to a National Trust founder — few buildings carry that depth of story in a single address.
2) It’s where Wordsworth’s Guide to the Lakes was written. As the most significant Georgian villa in Grasmere, Allan Bank was the birthplace of the first guidebook to fully capture the culture, traditions, and natural beauty of the Lake District — radical and visionary for its time.
3) The visitor experience is unlike any other National Trust house. No roped-off rooms or period furniture. Instead, an informal art gallery, a giant indoor mural space, evolving exhibitions, and a genuinely relaxed atmosphere where you’re encouraged to sit, stay, and soak it all in.
4) It’s a brilliant dog-friendly day out for the whole family. Four-legged friends are welcome in the garden and the downstairs rooms, picnics are allowed in the back kitchen, and there’s space and freedom that most historic houses simply don’t offer.
5) Allan Bank is a Dark Sky Discovery Site — one of only two in Cumbria. On clear winter evenings, the same garden where Wordsworth walked becomes one of the finest stargazing spots in the north of England — a magical and little-known highlight.