Rare 16th Century wall paintings have been discovered in a former Tudor hunting lodge. The Grotesque-style images were found at The Ashes, in Inglewood Forest. behind failing plasterwork.
They feature fantastical beasts and foliage arranged in decorative panels, thought to be an imitation textile design.
Scientific dating has confirmed that some of the earliest timbers in the building date from the early years of the reign of Elizabeth I.
The scientific dating using a technique that analyses tree growth rings to determine the age found that the earliest part of the roof used timber, which was felled in or around the winter of 1561 to 1562.
Jen and Richard Arkell, the owners of The Ashes, said: "A small fragment of wall painting - similar to that seen at nearby Dacre Hall - has been visible in the house since before we acquired the property over 20 years ago.
"However, recent work to the primary upstairs bedroom revealed much more of the composition.
"Removing old failing plaster to find these remarkable motifs and faces looking back at us is a moment we will never forget."
Markus Campbell-Savours, MP for Penrith and Solway, said: "It's quite clear these paintings were a remarkable find and it's wonderful news that they have now been protected as part of the building's listing.
"We can only hope that local people can enjoy them and the history of Cumbria for many years to come."
Historic England said the main lodge building was already Grade II* listed but the amended list entry now meant that the wall paintings were included in the protection.Myra Tolan-Smith, from Historic England, said: "The combination of motifs discovered here is unusual even by national standards.
"Together with the newly listed farm buildings, this discovery provides remarkable insight into the evolution of a significant Tudor hunting lodge into a working farm."
Photographs by Historic England
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