Holker Hall Gardens

(See also Holker Hall and Lakeland Motor Museum)

In the 18^th century Lord George Cavendish instigated the award winning gardens that surround Holker Hall. The gardens cover 25 acres and are part of the 125-acre parkland belonging to the Hall.

The gardens, incorporating both English and Italianate features, were originally designed by Sir Joseph Paxton. Thomas Mawson later altered them, when, in 1910, he added an arboretum, conservatory, low terraces by the house, and a ballustraded boundary wall. Through the years the gardens have seen other changes that include the demolishing of hot houses, reduction of flowering beds, and the addition of shrubs. An old croquet lawn now serves as a garden room.

A limestone cascade and other water features add interest. Roses, azaleas, rhododendrons, and spring bulbs provide colour. The gardens contain specimen trees-here is one of the oldest monkey puzzle trees in England. Felled by high winds in the 1890's, it was saved by being hauled upright and replanted.

For the gardening enthusiast, specimen plants are labelled. The "Potting Shed Gardening History Exhibition" will also appeal to the home gardener.

Fallow deer, introduced in the 18^th century, and red deer shelter in the deerpark. Woodland walks enhance the acreage. A wildflower meadow adds its own charm.

The Good Gardens Guide states that Holker Hall's gardens are "amongst the best in the world in terms of design and content."

Holker Hall and Gardens
Off the B5277/5278, five miles west of Grange-over-Sands at Cark.
Tel. 015395 58328
Email: publicopening@holker.co.uk
Annual garden festival in early June.
Adventure playground.
Guide to the gardens available at Holker Hall.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Ballard , Holker Hall and Risto Hurmalainen

Parks and Gardens

© 1997-2008 by The Cumbria Directory. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from The Cumbria Directory is prohibited.