Gorgeous Gardens to Visit in the Lake District

The Lake District is famous all the world over for its large bodies of water and amazing fells. You might not be too surprised to learn that it’s also home to some beautiful, palatial gardens with sensational views across the hills, many of which are open to visitors all through the year.

Here we take a closer look at some of the gardens you might like to put on your list of activities when you book into one of our cosy Coniston based holiday cottages.

Rydal Hall, North of Lake Windermere

The Lake District is certainly famous for its historic buildings and many are maintained by organisations such as the National Trust. Rydal Hall is typical, set in stunning woodland and surrounded by plenty to see and do for visitors from around the world.

The formal gardens are visited by thousands of people each year. Designed and created by Thomas Mawson, the Rydal Falls is worth a visit on its own. There are also secluded areas like the Quiet Garden where you can get some peace, contemplate life, and enjoy a bit of ‘me’ time.

Holehird, Close to Lake Windermere

There are plenty of gardens dotted across hillsides in the Lake District and Holehird is a prime example. It covers more than 17 acres and is carefully looked after by members of the Lakeland Horticultural Society who work on it all through the year.

It’s a great location in the spring when the daffodils start to burst forth. The team of volunteers who manage the garden also make sure it’s worth a visit during the winter. It’s not just the garden that is a big attraction through the seasons but the stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside as well.

Levens Hall, Kendal

There’s been a settlement in and around Kendal for centuries and Levens Hall dates right back to the 13th Century. Today, there’s an imposing Elizabethan house on the site, surrounded by opulent gardens that are worth a visit any time of year.

Many of the original features from this period have been retained and walking around the garden is often like stepping back in time. Tended to and cultivated by a team of dedicated gardeners and volunteers, during the spring and summer it’s a riot of amazing colours, fragrances and magnificent blooms.

Holker Hall, Grange-Over-Sands

At the southern tip of the Lake District, Grange-Over-Sands is one of the most popular tourist spots and a brilliant place to visit. Here you’ll find Holker Hall which is surrounded by more than 200 acres of parkland.

The gardens of Holker Hall cover some 23 acres and include features like the labyrinth which will certainly keep all the family busy for a few hours. If you love exotic plants and amazing trails, this is certainly one place to put on your list. It’s especially wonderful to visit during the autumn when the trees transform magically into shades of yellow, gold and brown.

Sizergh Castle, Between Kendal and Levens

Finally, one more beautiful garden to visit while you are staying in the Lake District is Sizergh Castle. Managed by the National Trust, this is another favourite haunt for tourists visiting all year round. The grounds have been cultivated to encourage a whole range of wildlife and the gardens are the perfect place for a gentle stroll, especially during the springtime.

Your Cottage Garden

One of the best gardens to spend time in when you are in the Lake District is the one attached to your holiday cottage! Most of the cottages listed on the Coppermines Cottages website have a garden or sunny patio perfect for alfresco dining and relaxing. Kids can play in the garden while you cook Cumberland sausages on the BBQ, or just relax in the evening with a glass of wine and watch the sun go down!