An 18th-century window located in Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s Lake District cottage, has been restored and returned to its original position.

Visitors will be able to see it when Hill Top, managed by the National Trust, reopens on February 10.

Featured in The Tale of Samuel Whiskers, the window has been an important part of the author’s farmhouse retreat for more than 250 years.

The Mail: The window removal process took more than five hours to complete due to the window's fragile

After resisting Cumbrian weather for centuries, it recently required considerable conservation work.

Laura Ruxton, general manager at the National Trust, said: "Thanks to generous donations from two of our supporters, it is a pleasure to have this window conserved and re-fitted at Hill Top.

"This contribution has ensured the future of this important window and protection of the fragile treasures inside Hill Top.

The Mail: The window has been an important part of the author’s farmhouse retreat for more than 250 years

"A range of specialist crafts people were required, and it was incredible to watch them use their skills in what was a challenging piece of work.”

The National Trust said the window removal process, which took more than five hours to complete due to the window's fragile condition, required glass specialists to remove four glass quarters of the window from the structure.

A temporary window, made from polycarbonate, was placed in the gap to ensure the structure remained secure.

Steve Clare, of Holy Well Glass Ltd, carried out the conservation work at his specialist studio, where he and his team conserved the glass panels.

The Mail: The window required considerable conservation work

Meanwhile, Stephen Holt, a specialist craftsperson from the National Trust Specialist Craft Centre, replaced the deteriorated wooden frame sections with sustainably-sourced oak at Hill Top.

John Wynn Griffiths, a seasoned Furniture and Wood conservator, contributed to the final touches, staining and waxing the new wood to match the remaining historic woodwork.

The window returned to Hill Top on November 14, 2023, and was successfully re-installed.

The Mail: Partial view of the staircase and half-landing at Hill Top Sawrey Cumbria

The National Trust is also unveiling a new display inspired by Beatrix Potter’s books at Hill Top this year.

The display will feature scenes, original artwork, and interactive programming for both children and adults.

An excerpt from the original manuscript of The Fairy Caravan, written by Beatrix Potter, will be showcased in a location believed to have been where she penned the words.

Starting from February 10, Hill Top House will be open to the public every day, except Fridays, between 10am and 4pm.