Beatrix Potter's summer home preserved with Grade II listed status The Cumbria house where Beatrix Potter spent her summer has been given Grade II listed status, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport announced today. The home and surrounding area are said to have inspired some of the author's most famous works, including The Tales of Peter Rabbit, Mrs Tiggywinkle and Benjamin Bunny. The woodland nearby and its population of red squirrels is also recognised as an influence behind The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin, and Potter was known to be a dedicated conservationist who spent much of her life trying to preserve the area. Called Lingholm, the house and grounds in Portinscale, Cumbria, will now be preserved after being given Grade II listed status, meaning it is recognised as "being of special architectural or historic interest" and protected against "unauthorised demolition, alteration or extension." Ed Vaizey, culture minister, has hailed the decision, saying: "Beatrix Potter's tales are loved and cherished by people young and old around the world and "Lingholm" as the inspiration for so many of these classic children's stories deserves to be protected. But as well as its historical association the house itself is remarkable for the quality of its design and the fact much of the interior remains intact. Nick Bridgland, from English Heritage, said: "Lingholm is a splendid example of the work of renowned Victorian architect Alfred Waterhouse. "The quality of the building's design, responding to its Lake District setting, its richly decorated interiors, as well as its intimate connection with one of England's best known children's authors mean it is absolutely right that "Lingholm" should be recognised with listing at Grade II." The house has been listed not only for its famous resident but also because of its architecture. Built between 1871 and 1875,"Lingholm" was designed by celebrated architect Alfred Waterhouse, best known for designing the Natural History Museum in London and Manchester Town Hall.