Levens: A Historic Gem in Cumbria’s South Lakes
Looking for a slice of authentic Lake District life, just five miles from Kendal?
Levens Village is a charming village, just a short drive from Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, that perfectly captures the essence of rural Lake District life.
Here there is a small village with one of the most beautiful houses and perhaps the loveliest gardens in the Lake District.
Located approximately 5 miles south of Kendal, this historic settlement offers visitors and residents alike a wonderful blend of natural beauty, architectural heritage, and rich history.
Levens Hall and Gardens
The crown jewel of the village is undoubtedly Levens Hall, an Elizabethan manor house dating back to the 13th century.
The hall is particularly famous for its topiary gardens, which are among the oldest and most extensive in the world.
These magnificent gardens were first laid out in the 1690s by Guillaume Beaumont, who created an elaborate design of clipped yew and box trees that still captivates visitors today.
The gardens feature over 100 pieces of topiary, some reaching heights of up to 30 feet, creating a unique and magical atmosphere that draws garden enthusiasts from around the globe.
Village Life and Community
The heart of Levens village centres around its traditional limestone buildings, many dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.
The village pub, The Hare and Hounds, serves as a social hub for locals and provides welcome refreshments for walkers exploring the area.
Levens Primary School, which has served the community for generations, continues to play a vital role in village life.
Natural Surroundings
The village sits where the River Kent meets the River Gilpin, creating a stunning natural setting.
The surrounding countryside offers excellent walking opportunities, with paths leading through woodland, along riverbanks, and across rolling farmland.
The Levens Bridge, an ancient crossing point over the River Kent, provides spectacular views of the river and its wildlife, including salmon during the spawning season.
Levens Park
Adjacent to Levens Hall lies Levens Park, a deer park that has remained virtually unchanged since the 1690s.
The park is home to a herd of black fallow deer and rare breed Bagot goats, making it a unique attraction for nature lovers.
Ancient beech avenues line the pathways, creating atmospheric walks throughout the seasons.
Historical Significance
The village’s history stretches back to medieval times, with evidence of early settlements in the area.
The parish church of St. John the Evangelist, though largely rebuilt in the 19th century, contains elements dating back to Norman times.
The village’s strategic location near the Kent estuary meant it played an important role in local trade and communication routes throughout history.
Modern Levens
Today, Levens maintains its traditional charm while embracing modern life.
The village has a strong sense of community, hosting various events throughout the year, including garden fetes, village shows, and cultural activities at Levens Hall.
Despite its proximity to the larger town of Kendal, Levens has managed to preserve its distinct character and peaceful atmosphere.
Transport and Accessibility
The village is well-connected, situated close to the A6 main road and within easy reach of the M6 motorway.
This makes it an ideal base for visiting both the Lake District National Park to the north and Morecambe Bay to the south.
Regular bus services connect Levens to Kendal and other nearby towns.
Local Economy
While historically an agricultural community, today’s Levens is home to a diverse population, including commuters who work in nearby towns, local business owners, and those involved in tourism.
The village benefits from its position on the edge of the Lake District National Park, attracting visitors who contribute to the local economy through tourism.
Conservation and Future
Levens falls within a conservation area, ensuring that its historical character and architectural heritage are protected for future generations.
The village continues to evolve while maintaining a careful balance between preservation and development, making it an exemplary model of sustainable rural community life in the 21st century.
This combination of history, natural beauty, and community spirit makes Levens a unique and special place within Cumbria‘s diverse landscape.
Whether visiting its famous topiary gardens, exploring its walking trails, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Levens offers something for everyone who appreciates the quintessential charm of English village life.
If you are looking for a Lake District pet-friendly holiday cottage within easy reach of Levens Village and Levens Hall, enquire here or ring 07785944194.
How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage
Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call on 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 cottage in the Lake District.