Christmas at Allan Bank

What makes you feel festive? If it’s handmade Christmas cards for the family, a brisk walk, or a seat in front of a fire with a good book and a cup of tea, we’ve got just the thing at Allan Bank in Grasmere. Read on to find out how you can have a handmade Christmas.

Immerse yourself in year old traditions that give a rustic, homely feel to the festivities in one of the rooms at Allan Bank. Split over two floors, on the ground floor you’ll find a kitchen, an art room, a study, a playroom and an accessible toilet; upstairs there is a crafts room, a room with a view and a toilet. Outside offers plenty of paths to explore – wander up into the woods or find your way to the garden potting shed. 

The kitchen
You can help yourself to tea or coffee in the small kitchen area and find a seat anywhere in the house. There are plenty of tables and chairs if you want to tuck into a picnic – just bring your own and find a seat. 

The art room
Head to the art room for all the materials you need to make your own handmade Christmas cards, decorations, gift tags or paper snowflakes. This is your room to get creative.  

Make your own paper snowflake

How to make paper snowflakes  

Looking for an easy, fun and effective Christmas craft for the whole family? Have a go at these simple paper snowflakes – a great addition to any winter window display.

The study
With an open log fire burning every day, this is the place if you want to sit back and relax with a good book, the daily newspaper, or a pair of binoculars to watch the red squirrels collecting feed for winter. 

The playroom
Somewhere for the kids, in here you’ll find a dressing up box with plenty of outfits, wooden building blocks and toys to play with for hours. 

The craft room
Try your hand at knitting or embroidery – with full step by step instructions, anyone can have a go.

Walking in Grasmere
Grasmere offers the best of both worlds when it comes to walking – enjoy low level, flat walks along the lake shore or set off on a hike on the fells. Wrap up warm and you’ll be rewarded with the beauty of an uninterrupted Lake District landscape. 

Allan Bank and Grasmere

Walks for all in Grasmere  

With plenty of options for a relaxed lake-shore stroll or a walk up the fells, Grasmere is the place to come for a quick amble or a long day’s adventure. You bring the picnic, we’ve got the views.

Christmas shopping
A world away from knocking shoulders on the high street is our little shop in Grasmere. Relax into a slow shopping experience and browse practical presents, tasty treats, decorations and toys. 

The front of the National Trust gift shop in Grasmere

Shopping with the National Trust in Grasmere 

In a very quaint building opposite Grasmere Church you’ll find our National Trust gift shop, full of treats for you or a loved one. Every purchase you make will help to protect this wonderful landscape?