Our approach to Blaithwaite was along country lanes with wild flowers on the verges and the sights and sounds of haymaking in the fields. There is not a lot of room down the lanes when you meet a tractor coming the other way - especially when you have 4 cars (with members who came in their own transport) following the bus.
However arrive we did and what an entrance ...
Dennis & Glenys were waiting for us as we arrived in the car park and led us to the Barn where we would be officially welcomed.
What a stunning building to be welcomed in! Malcolm and Dennis told us a little about the history of Blaithwaite and how it has been developed over the years into its present incarnation.
We were then led on a grand tour around some of the grounds and buildings - with an invitation to investigate further for ourselves if we wanted.
Buildings have been restored sympathetically, but still with character and atmosphere.
The grounds of Blaithwaite range from formal gardens to big open spaces where you can wander at will.
The house has been redecorated and brought into the 21st Century beautifully and sympathetically. Malcolm's wife, Kate, joined us part-way through the tour and, we were told, has been influential in its re-design. What a good job she has done!
Blaithwaite is now a venue for a range of celebrations. They cater for many weddings, large or small, indoor or outdoor, and offer a very personal service. They offer accommodation in the house, in the converted stables, in the Bunk House, on the campsite or in glamping tepees! All of the redecoration has been very tastefully completed.There are also a range of activities on offer to keep guests of all ages busy.
The hospitality we received was second to none - we were guided around the house and grounds but with no sense of impatience. Questions were answered and freedom to wander encouraged. There has obviously been an awful lot of thought and effort put into Blaithwaite House and its grounds to create the stunning country estate it now is. The magical atmosphere it exudes would make any visit memorable - and ours certainly was.
