Why is Lowther special?
This historic planned model village was built in the 1770s for Sir James Lowther. It has many interesting characteristics such as:
- Inspired by the drawings and design of Robert Adam (1728-1792), the renowned Georgian architect.
- Designed as a single entity with a common architectural theme which creates an exceptional sense of place.
- All of the historic buildings, including the 18th century pump and trough, are listed grade II* (defined in planning law as ‘particularly important buildings of more than special interest’).
- A fragment of a grandiose scheme that features the plan-form of an incomplete circus and half of a Greek cross.
- One of the earliest examples of the circus form, best exemplified by John Wood’s Circus in Bath (1754).
- Example of an 18th century urban plan in an incongruous remote rural setting.
- Unity of building materials, such as local limestone and sandstone walls under graduated Lake District slate roofs.
- Individual trees and woods that provide a setting and a backdrop for the historic buildings.
- Site of an historic lime-kiln.
- Stone boundary walls with copings that reflect the location and purpose of the boundary.
- Small details such as a Victorian letter box and a stone stile add to the area's distinctive sense of place.
More details
