A small 15th century building which once formed part of Hawkshead Hall, a farm owned by Furness Abbey. The current building is the last remnant of a set of buildings that once formed a quadrangle. It consists of a gateway arch, with a room above the arch where court proceedings were held. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, the Old Courthouse served such diverse purposes as a chapel and stables.
The Old Courthouse is quite distinctive, with its stepped gable ends, and a long sloping buttress. Above the gateway arch is a statuary niche which would once have held a likeness of the Virgin Mary. Just above the arch is a much worn carving of a lion's head.
The Courthouse is free to view, but is normally kept locked. The key can be obtained from the National Trust shop in Hawkshead village (at the Beatrix Potter Gallery). To reach the Courthouse, proceed north along the road towards Ambleside. You will reach the Courthouse on your left immediately past the road to Coniston. There is no parking, so the best way to view the site is to leave your vehicle in Hawkshead village and walk the short distance to the Courthouse.
