The Lake District Horticultural Society's Scenic Circle
 Herbaceous Border in the walled garden at Holehird |
There is no doubt that the Lakeland Horticultural Society's Garden at Holehird, a few minutes from Windermere, is a gem that often goes undiscovered by the many visitors to the area.
Every week some 70 plus volunteers work in the garden to ensure that it continues to be one of the most inspirational gardens in the UK today. It is fitting that we should start our tour here early in the morning when peace and tranquillity can be enjoyed amongst wonderful plants and spectacular panoramas.
We will then travel to the shores of Lake Windermere to enjoy morning coffee in the conservatory of The Langdale Chase, a lakeside hotel, whose gardens were laid out by landscape artist Thomas Mawson in the late 19th century.
Our next stop is High Cleabarrow, a private garden, owner designed, in approximately 2 acres and containing many unusual plants, a wide range of perennials and shrubs, including collections of hydrangeas, hardy geraniums and hostas. There is a formal rose garden with old fashioned shrub and climbing roses and a pond with waterside planting, you will also get the opportunity to see a woodland garden under development.
Lunch at Levens Hall - 10 acres of wondrous highlights - including a topiary garden and the first ever haha, laid out by Monsieur Beaumont in 1694. You will be tempted to visit the Elizabethan House with a 13th Century Peel Tower, the steam collection and the shop but do not miss out on the formal bedding, the herbaceous borders and the huge beech circle.
Our
return route takes us through spectacular Lakeland scenery along the
shores of Windermere and afternoon tea, at Fell Foot Park, one of the
National Trusts prettiest parks set on the shores
of Lake Windermere.
