A year of celebration for Blackwell

A year of celebration for Blackwell

This year marks a truly special moment for Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house.

In 2026, we celebrate 125 years since the house was built, alongside 25 years of contemporary craft collecting since opening to the public — two milestones that reflect Blackwell’s enduring legacy of craftsmanship, creativity and thoughtful design.

To mark the occasion, we’re presenting two major exhibitions. Useful/Beautiful, opening this May, celebrates the makers, ideas and objects that have shaped our contemporary craft collection over the past 25 years. Later this year, M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer will explore the life and work of the visionary behind Blackwell, offering new insight into his influence on the Arts & Crafts Movement.

Alongside these exhibitions, a series of special events will take place throughout the year. This includes Blackwell’s 25 Year Celebration on Saturday 4 July, where the house and gardens host a joyful programme of special activities, including discounted entry.

As part of this year-long celebration, we’re also shining a spotlight on contemporary makers whose work connects with the spirit of Blackwell. Recently, we caught up with Lake District-based artist and textile designer Tiana McInerney, whose work draws inspiration from the house and its surroundings.

With May half term just around the corner, there’s even more to enjoy across our museums, including family-friendly activities inspired by Useful/Beautiful at Blackwell, alongside creative sessions at Abbot Hall and free activities at Windermere Jetty Museum.

Useful/Beautiful
Opening Friday 1 May 2026

Celebrating 25 years of contemporary craft collecting at Blackwell, this exhibition brings together the makers, ideas and objects that have shaped our collection since 2001.

Blackwell’s 25 Year Celebration
Saturday 4 June | 10am – 5pm

Join us for a joyful day of creativity, craft and community as we celebrate 25 years of Blackwell being part of Lakeland Arts. Expect a full programme of special activities across the house and gardens, with reduced admission available.

M H Baillie Scott: Architect & Designer
Opening Friday 18 September 2026

 

Marking 125 years of Blackwell, this major exhibition explores the life and work of its architect, Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott (1865-1945) and his significant contribution to the Arts & Crafts Movement.

May Half Term at Lakeland Arts

Saturday 23 – Sunday 31 May

Looking for budget-friendly things to do with the family this May half term? We’ve got plenty going on across our three museums.

At Windermere Jetty Museum, families can enjoy free family activities in the Learning centre, or with museum admission you can also explore our new trail and have a go at our Cargo Chaos interactive game. You could even enjoy a heritage boat trip on Osprey, our 1902 steamboat, across the lake.

Stop by Abbot Hall for creative activities, such as Draw A Self-portrait activity, included with gallery admission.

Channel your inner maker at Blackwell and make something both useful and beautiful, inspired by our new exhibition.

Celebrating exceptional craftspersonship

As part of this milestone year, we’re working with makers and artisans across the UK to bring a curated selection of new products to the Blackwell shop — including prints by local artist Tiana McInerney, inspired by the house itself.

Heritage boat trips

Explore Windermere abroad a piece of history. Ensure you book your tickets a month in advance.