Exploring the wider estate and watermill at Acorn Bank
With 180 acres of woodland and parkland, there are plenty of opportunities for peaceful moments away from the crowds. Wander along woodland paths and discover hidden views along the way. Visit the historic watermill, get closer to nature, or go on a geocaching adventure.
Late summer and autumn on the estate
- It is a season of change at Acorn Bank from September. Many of the birds that have bred in the summer vacate the woods and head for their African wintering grounds, to be replaced by winter thrushes such as redwing and fieldfare.
- Siskins and redpolls gather up in flocks on the alders down near the mill, and the first flights of pinkfooted geese and whooper swans can be seen over the property heading for nearby fields.
- This is the best season to see the shy roe deer, particularly in the early morning, and as the leaves fall from the trees the red squirrels become easier to see.
The working watermill
Riverlands oral histories project
Alongside the Riverlands project, an oral history project has gathered generational memories, connections and feelings about Crowdundle Beck and the surrounding area. The voices you'll hear in this video are excerpts from the interviews, which you can find at Acorn Bank as part of a trail.
The soundscape installation
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, listen, and be inspired. The project was supported by the University of Central Lancashire and The Global Sounds Movement.
In the Dovecote, pause, listen, and reflect on the intricate tapestry of life that unfolds in the countryside, with a soundscape of nature recordings taken at Acorn Bank which showcases its rich natural diversity. You'll hear birdsong, the environment and the ever-changing seasons at Acorn Bank, and the soundscape evolves dynamically, shifting with the seasons to mirror nature's cycles.
It celebrates the beauty of birdsong and the changing seasons, fostering connections between us and nature.
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Riverlands: Caring for Crowdundle Beck
Rivers are life forces. They’ve helped sustain ecosystems, cultures and communities for millennia, their quiet power steadily shaping everything from landscapes to place names. But many of our rivers are under threat from climate change, pollution, and human-made changes to the landscapes and waterways, which is why the National Trust launched Riverlands.
History of Acorn Bank
Discover how Acorn Bank's purpose has changed throughout the centuries, since it was first owned by the Knights Templar in the 13th century.
Family-friendly things to do at Acorn Bank
Discover what family-friendly activities are on offer at Acorn Bank in Cumbria, from geocaching around the parkland to newt spotting in the Sunken Garden. Try a self-guided nature trail and use rubbing plaques to discover the flora and fauna of Acorn Bank's walled garden and woodland.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Countryside in the Lake District
Explore the Lake District's majestic mountains – among them Scafell Pike, the tallest in England – ancient woodland, hidden waterfalls, rugged coastline and, of course, its many lakes. You might even spot a red squirrel, roe deer or bird of prey.
