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The Deincourt family was the first to own Sizergh. They were granted the land by Henry II in the 1170s. Their propriety lasted until 1239, when Elizabeth Deincourt married Sir William de Strikeland, and the lands passed into what was to become the Strickland family. Although the property is now in the hands of the National Trust, the Stricklands continue to inhabit the castle, and have been responsible for its expansion over the centuries. The first building constructed here that would survive the test of time was the 14th-century Pele Tower. The tower, like many in the north of England, was intended to defend against the much feared Scottish raiders of the time. It's design incorperated an incredible defense with walls up to 10 ft (3 m) thick.
The next major addition was the great Tudor Hall, built 100 years later. This was remodelled in Elizabethan times to accommodate the increasing numbers of servants, and to make space for several new workshops. The layout was finalised in the 16th century with the building of the North Wing, which included a large kitchen, new bedrooms and administrative offices. The property had become a splendid fortified manor house, and despite many further modifications over the next 500 years, its layout today remains as it was in the 1500s.
However, much of Sizergh's appeal lies inside its medieval walls. The oak panelling employed in a series of rooms - culminating with the Inlaid Chamber (the original State Bedroom) - is regarded as the finest example of such decoration in an English country house. In addition to the intricate architecture, the castle contains some of the most exquisitely carved Elizabethan overmantels in the country, as well as a plentiful supply of French and English furniture accumulated over the centuries. Other items on show include portraits, silver, china, Flemish tapestry, Jacobean relics and the ubiquitous coats of arms carved in oak.
A visit isn't complete until you've seen the garden. It's an eclectic assortment, incorporating a wildflower meadow, two lakes and a Dutch Garden. The star attraction, however, is the Rock Garden, which was created in the 1920s from limestone pavements excavated around the grounds. The largest of its kind in England, it also includes the National Collection of four genera of hardy ferns, as well as dwarf conifers, maples and various rock pools splashing with koi carp. Extending away from the garden are the vast grounds, which feature a number of trails and an ancient wood inhabited by many kinds of butterfly. If you have a little time to spare, you can take advantage of some of the nature walks to surrounding beauty spots, including spectacular vantage points over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells.
Both Castle and Garden are open 5 days a week until 5.30pm, from Sunday to Thursday.
More information on Sizergh Castle and Gardens from the National Trust
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