Meet William’s ‘exquisite’ sister at Wordsworth House

A portrait of an elderly woman

Without William’s ‘exquisite’ sister, as the poet Coleridge described her, the world might never have heard of one of its best-loved poets, and that means we might never have had a conservation movement – or the National Trust. Big claims? Why not decide for yourself?

As part of the National Trust’s celebration of the centenary of female suffrage, Wordsworth House and Garden’s costumed servants are shining a light on the remarkable life of William’s childhood playmate, secretary and life-long supporter.

To get to know Dorothy better – and reach your own conclusions about her influence – join one of their 10-minute talks on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in term-time at 11.30am.

William and his sister Dorothy loved to play in the walled garden
Children dressed as William and his sister Dorothy at the National Trust's Wordsworth House and Garden in Cumbria
William and his sister Dorothy loved to play in the walled garden