Miniature Lake District village finds new home near Windermere

A labour of love lasting 30 years and standing up to a metre high, they were made by retired builder Edward Robinson.

The miniature Lakeland village, set out in the garden of his Flookburgh home, attracted 6,000 visitors a year.

But in 2021 Edward and his wife Kathleen decided to close it in the hope that someone else would take it on.

Their call was answered by Jonathan Denby, who owns hotels, guest houses and B&Bs across South Cumbria.

This month the Lakeland Model Village opens in the grounds of the Damson Dene Hotel, just 10 minutes from Bowness.

Jonathan says Edward’s miniature works of art represent great skill, attention to detail and patience. 

Edward Robinson with his mini Lakeland village which has found a new home at Damson Dene Hotel (Image: Louise Dewhurst)

READ MORE: Owners reveal plans to sell Lakeland Miniature Village in Flookburgh after nearly 30 years

He said: “People are completely enthralled and fascinated by miniature worlds, and all the work that goes into creating them.

“I am sure this microcosm of Lake District landmarks will really appeal to our overseas visitors too. Particularly our Japanese and Chinese guests. They can visit miniature version of Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top home, Townend Farmhouse at Troutbeck, Slaters Bridge in Little Langdale, the Bridge House, in Ambleside and Yew Tree Farm, near Coniston – amongst others."

Made out of local slate Jonathan says Edward constructed them so well that transporting the models was straightforward.

It’s been the job of a local builder Carl Taylor to recreate the village in the hotel grounds - a feat that’s taken a year.

Another addition to the garden are life-sized bronzes of Beatrix Potter sat on a bench and talking to a standing John Ruskin. They are by Lancaster-based sculptor Alan Ward, a fellow of the Royal Society of Sculptors.