Pets to Page: The Tale of Two Bad Mice. A brand new display at Hill Top.
New for 2025, this display explores how Beatrix drew inspiration for her tales from the pets and people in her life and celebrates the layers of imagination within this special story.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Beatrix’s manuscript for The Tale of Two Bad Mice (1904), her sketches, finalised artworks and the dolls’ accessories which inspired them are all displayed together, to provide visitors with a greater understanding of her creative process and her exacting attention to detail. At the heart of this display is the newly restored dolls' house. In it lies the dolls’ food and accessories which feature in The Tale of Two Bad Mice. There are also animations of Beatrix’s beloved mice and a dolls’ house replica waiting to be played with.
The dolls' house and its contents have recently returned from the National Trust's conservation studio in Knole and are back on display looking better than ever. The house contains state-of-the-art lighting which can be controlled by visitors to spotlight each room and key objects.
To celebrate this conservation project, visitors can see a ‘behind-the-scenes’ film that details the specialist techniques and treatments used to restore the dolls' house and its contents.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Booking details
Free with normal admission to Hill Top.
- Suitability
Children accompanied by adults are welcome.
- Meeting point
Don't forget to collect your token for your visit from the visitor reception in Hill Top's car park. Check out our advice on booking and alternate methods of transport on the website.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for the weather. We have lockers in which you can leave bags.
- Accessibility
There is no wheelchair or step free access to the upper floor of the house where this display is situated. Some steps into and out of the garden with uneven surfaces. Braille, large print guides, ear defenders and a tactile tour are available from the house's front door. Ramp available for shop entrance.
Upcoming events
Mischief in Miniature
The Tale of Two Bad Mice comes to life at Hill Top, with little needle-felted mice in various mischievous scenes around the property for you to try and spot.
My Dear Beatrix...
Send Beatrix Potter a letter about your connection to her, her stories, and the Lake District that she loved and was inspired by.
Hill Top Herdwick - Exclusive Guided Walks
Join the Hill Top Farm team on an exclusive guided tour at Hill Top Farm, Near Sawrey, renowned as the first farm owned by Beatrix Potter.
Tabitha Twitchit's Bookshop
A new chapter begins with the opening of Tabitha Twitchit's Bookshop in Hawkshead.