The Priory Windermere

A painting of this house at Windermere was at Exhibition of Manchester Academy of Fine Art by J A Hammersley. Of the subject the Building News commented “one of the most hideous edifices we remember to ever have seen.” [Building News 18 October 1861 page 833]. It is assumed to be the house for which building tenders were sought in 1860:

TO BUILDERS AND OTHERS - Parties desirous of tendering for a GOTHIC HOUSE, STABLES and other OUTBUILDINGS at Windermere may see the plans and specifications and obtain further particulars by applying to the office of the architect, Ernest Bates, Albert Chambers, Corporation-street Manchester. [Manchester Guardian Tuesday 7 August 1860 Page 4]

THE PRIORY, WINDERMERE —TO BE LET. This desirable and commodious MANSION, together with well- shrubbed Gardens and Grounds and Three Paddocks, containing in the whole about 12.5 acres, with frontage to the lake: the residence (a handsome Gothic structure in stone), with southerly and westerly aspects, from which unrivalled views of the lake and mountain scenery are obtained, contains porch. entrance cloakroom and lavatory, dining room, drawing-room, library, eight bed and dressing rooms, ample domestic offices, two servants' bedrooms (off separate staircase). and good cellars: the house is heated with hot water and has an installation of electric light throughout: entrance lodge, stables, coach-house, with billiard-room over, tennis lawn, kitchen garden, vinery, and conservatory: boathouse on Lake; the property, which is in excellent condition, is situate on the main road between Windermere and Ambleside, and is within ten minutes' walk or railway station, church, post. and telegraph office. For further particulars and orders to view apply to HILL, DICKINSON. and Co. solicitors, 10, Water-street. Liverpool. [Manchester Guardian 24 June 1905 page 3]

Reference    Manchester Guardian Tuesday 7 August 1860 Page 4 (Contracts)
Reference    Building News 18 October 1861 page 833 Academy of Fine Art Manchester
Reference    Manchester Guardian 24 June 1905 page 3