cumbria's gardens this january...
If you have over-done it at Christmas, over-indulged in the turkey and trimmings, and piled on the pounds, then perhaps it is time to test out your new year's resolve- stretch the legs and work off some weight.
If you are sick of the seasonal TV offerings, and ready to grab a breath of real, fresh Lakeland air, then these short days are just right for long walks.
The question is- where to go? Flower-filled gardens are thin on the ground at this time of year so we must look to the larger landscape... Big, bold 18th century garden making, that used for its design palette the lakes and mountains, rivers and woodlands. This was ‘gardening' on a grand scale with vistas created to impress, and scenic tours to be experienced from horseback.
We may not have the luxury of a horse to help us, but these cold, crisp, frosty mornings, when you can see your breath hang in the air, bring the perfect invitation for a brisk walk in beautiful surroundings. We will be making our way up Levens Park- following the footpaths as they flank the picturesque River Kent and along the ancient mile long Oak avenue... This most pleasing of ‘natural' landscapes has slowly evolved from mediaeval deer park, and is still home to the original ‘Norwegian Black' Fallow Deer. They now share this stunning sanctuary with rare Bagot Goats and of course a huge diversity of english wildlife. I have seen the bright blue flash of many a Kingfisher skimming along the river here, but perhaps 2008 will be the year I get the thrill of seeing one of the elusive Otters at last!
Another favourite winter outing of ours is a tour around Tarn Hows, that most idyllic of Lake District beauty spots. It should be on your list of winter warming walks too. An easy ramble circuits the tarn and gives great views through the trees to the fells beyond. This is a stunningly beautiful, designed ‘natural' landscape. It was created in the 1860s by damming, flooding and extensive planting. Originally made to impress the guests of the local landowner, it is now in the hands of the National Trust, to be enjoyed by everyone, for all time...
The Lake District abounds with many other such walks. If Father Christmas was kind enough to give you an O.S. map, check out the big estates and the networks of footpaths around and through them. While we wait for spring in the garden, there is nothing so rewarding as a brisk walk on a cold winter's day. Take in the ‘genius' of those great 18th century landscapes and admire the handiwork of those long-sighted gardeners as their plantings reach their prime...
