Discovering Beatrix Potter Beyond Peter Rabbit: A Visit to The Armitt Museum in Kendal

When you think of Beatrix Potter, it’s likely that Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and Mr. Tod spring to mind. But there’s so much more to this iconic author and illustrator than charming animal tales. Nestled in the Lake District town of Ambleside, The Armitt Museum offers a deep and fascinating dive into Potter’s lesser-known passions — and it’s a must-visit for fans, historians, and nature lovers alike.

A Hidden Gem in Kendal’s Backyard
Though not in Kendal proper, The Armitt Museum is just a scenic drive away and complements the Beatrix Potter experience beautifully. While Hill Top (her former home in Near Sawrey) celebrates her storytelling legacy, The Armitt showcases her as a scientist, artist, and conservationist.

This intimate museum offers a unique look at Potter’s extraordinary life beyond the pages of her books. Through an impressive collection of watercolours, letters, photographs, and personal artifacts, visitors discover a woman deeply connected to the natural world and committed to preserving it.

New for 2025: Summers in the Lake District
Running from February 12 to December 20, 2025, the museum’s headline exhibition, The Armitt Explores… Beatrix Potter’s Summers in the Lake District, transports visitors to the places that most inspired her work and worldview. From Wray Castle to Holehird, the display paints a vivid portrait of the landscapes that shaped both Potter’s artistic eye and her enduring love for nature.

Expect to see rarely viewed artwork, personal correspondence, and archival photos that reveal how deeply her summers in Cumbria influenced her stories and scientific pursuits.

Step Into the Story: The Escape Box Experience
Looking for something more interactive? Between April 18 and July 27, 2025, the museum is hosting a family-friendly escape box experience titled Beatrix Potter’s Missing Paper. Designed to engage kids and adults alike, this puzzle-based adventure invites teams to solve clues, unlock mysteries, and learn more about Potter’s world in the process.

It’s a brilliant hands-on way to immerse yourself in history — and it’s perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a casual visitor or a devoted fan, The Armitt is well worth a few hours of your time. Here’s what you need to know:

Location: Rydal Road, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9BL

Opening Hours:

February–March & November–December: Wed–Sat, 10:30 AM–4:30 PM

April–October: Tues–Sat, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Admission:

Adults: £7

Students: £4

Children under 16: Free

Website: www.armitt.com

A Potter Experience You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you think you know Beatrix Potter, The Armitt Museum might just surprise you. Far from just a children’s author, Potter was a trailblazing illustrator, an amateur mycologist, and one of the Lake District’s earliest conservation advocates. This museum invites you to discover those hidden dimensions.

So, whether you’re planning a trip to Kendal or exploring the broader Lake District, be sure to add The Armitt to your itinerary. You’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for one of England’s most remarkable women.