Pictures of Levens

About Levens

This pretty Cumbrian village has a history stretching back to the time of the Doomsday Book in which it was listed as Lefuenes. It nestles in a quiet spot, overlooking the Lyth Valley where each spring, daffodils and damson-tree blossom come out in great profusion along the picturesque banks of the River Kent.

The area is known predominantly as the home of Levens Hall. The hall is the largest Elizabethan mansion in Cumbria,it is set in over 100 acres of beautiful parkland. Levens itself has its notable sites, these include the Georgian church dedicated to St.John the Evangelist which sits amid a peaceful tree studded and lawned churchyard scattered with gravestones. The Hare and Hounds is an attractive pub offering visitors a warm welcome, and there are pleasant shops where the owner welcomes you warmly. Along the banks of the Kent is a picturesque farmhouse which looks as though it has stepped straight out of the 16th-century.

Within easy driving distance of Levens, you can reach famous Sizergh Castle, which has a 60ft high, four storey 14th-century pele tower, and is one of the most impressive castles in the county and has been the home of the Strickland family for over 750 years.

From the village the waters of the Kent make their final dash to the open sea, by-passing both Arnside and Grange-over-Sands, the river makes a majestic sweep into Morecambe Bay.

In this peaceful area there is much to see and admire, it makes a lovely destination for a romantic weekend, or a longer stay to explore the leafy country lanes, coastal villages and stately homes of the region.