For a hands-on taste of history, a visit to Leighton Hall at Carnforth, a 30-minute drive from Kirkby Lonsdale, must be on your bucket list. Its earliest records date from 1246 and as you step inside the Hall you take a step back in time.

The house is often busy with visitors, but it still retains the atmosphere of a family home, as every room in the house is used regularly by the Gillow Reynolds family and friends.

There are no roped off areas. Visitors are invited to sit on the ancient chairs, as entertaining and enthusiastic guides reveal the family’s history and habits. You are welcome to take your places around the 18th century dining table or even to play a tune on the Concert Steinway piano!

The Gillow family of cabinet makers and upholsterers built a reputation as one of the country’s leading British cabinet makers of the 18th and 19th Century. As you move from room to room, you will come across many unusual pieces of Gillow furniture.

There’s a variety of tours to choose from. Enjoy the house tour, perhaps include a delightful and tasty afternoon tea, or consider the magical candlelit tour. And don’t forget to sample home made or locally produced snacks or meals.

Children are not overlooked. They can have the outdoor experience – and fun – of a play area, a caterpillar maze or the tree face trail.