Levens Hall: The Park & Gardens

Steve Halliwell

Our chair, Dawn Beaumont, welcomed everyone and introduced the afternoon’s speaker, Steve Halliwell, who was to present an illustrated lecture about the park and gardens of Levens Hall.

Steve began by explaining that Levens Hall is situated on the banks of the River Kent next to the A6 near Milnethorpe. The house has developed from a pele tower built by the de Redman family in 1170 and is now owned by the Bagot family. He then took us on a walk through the extensive grounds of the Hall, beginning with the impressive avenue of lime trees that used to flank the main entrance to the Hall. As he proceeded through the park, he pointed out the large number of ancient (more than 350 years old) trees, including magnificent specimens of chestnut, oak, beech and ash, plus a rare tulip tree. The parkland is home to a wide range of fauna, including Bagot goats and black fallow deer.

Arriving back at the present main entrance to the Hall, Steve took us into the extensive gardens, first laid out in the 1690s. Along the way, he pointed out some historical features of the house, including a recently-restored ‘smoke house’, whence the gentlemen of the house could retire to smoke their cigarettes and pipes. He also recalled the traditional ‘Radish Feast’ that took place each May. The radishes could weigh anything up to 100 pounds in weight! Steve’s brilliant photos and commentary informed us of the remarkable range and variety of flowers grown throughout the garden, especially in the magnificent borders. Those edging the ancient bowling green, now a croquet lawn, are stunning. Huge ancient beech hedges – up to 14 feet high – frame other notable areas of the garden, including: a willow maze, constructed from impenetrable willow; an orchard; a nuttery and a pleached lime hedge that frames a large water feature.

Finally, Steve took us into the most famous part of the estate – the world’s oldest topiary garden. Huge box and yew trees have been expertly formed over three centuries into a myriad of objects. They include chess pieces, a judge’s wig large enough to walk under, a giant umbrella, a grey seal, ducks, a collapsing wedding cake and a hand with a signet ring.

Dawn closed proceedings by thanking Steve for his most fascinating and informative tour of the Levens Park and Gardens. The Cliviger Ukulele Band played their version of a range of popular songs, while the members were treated to tea, coffee plus delicious cakes and buns prepared by members of the Friends’ committee. A most enjoyable and entertaining afternoon in the wonderful surroundings of the Cruck Barn.