july's Cumbrian Summer Gardens...
With summer comes the high season for garden visiting and Cumbria is the perfect county destination to indulge a passion for all things floral.
Holiday time can bring a well deserved rest from the work of gardening at home. In exchange we can gain much enjoyment, relaxation and inspiration from others' labour...
The Lake District has a generous spread of great gardens, large and small to quietly enjoy, educate or entertain. All lying within the most wonderful landscape of lakes, mountains, woodland and lush green pasture.
Particular favourites in the grander ‘Stately Home' style include Levens Hall and Holker Hall to the South, Muncaster Castle to the West, and Mirehouse and Hutton-in-the-Forest to the North.
Smaller houses with larger literary connections and lovely gardens include Beatrix Potter's Hill Top and William Wordsworth's Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount. While National Trust supporters will make the most of their membership by visiting Sizergh Castle and a host of smaller though no less absorbing sites such as those at Townend and Acorn Bank.
And finally, no visit to the area would be complete without a trip to Holehird, home of the Lakeland Horticultural Society. A truly first class garden of great diversity, superb views, impeccable maintenance and excellent labeling.
So, you see, garden lovers can be spoilt for choice in Cumbria- The Lake District. The summertime destination for great gardens.
