Stagshaw Garden: A Woodland Haven Near Ambleside

Tranquil woodland garden near Ambleside with vibrant spring blooms, towering trees, and scenic Lake District views.

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Stagshaw Garden is a tranquil woodland garden near Ambleside, managed by the National Trust. Known for its vibrant spring blooms of azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias, it offers scenic woodland walks, steep hillsides, and views over the Lake District fells. The garden features some of England’s tallest trees, including the grand firs of Skelghyll Woods, and provides a peaceful retreat with picnic spots and benches along the trails.

A brief summary to Stagshaw Gardens

Ambleside, GB
+441539446027
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit in spring (April to May) to see the azaleas and rhododendrons in full bloom.
Wear sturdy shoes due to steep and uneven terrain throughout the garden.
Parking is very limited with only about 8 to 10 spaces; consider walking from Ambleside.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect grazing animals.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the benches or picnic spots with scenic views.

Getting There

Bus

Take bus number 599 to the Pier stop or buses 516, 505, or 555 to the Hotel stop in Ambleside, then walk approximately 20-30 minutes to Stagshaw Garden. Buses run regularly but check schedules seasonally; fares typically range from £3 to £6.
Car

Drive to Stagshaw Garden via Ambleside Road (A591). Note the small car park has space for only about 8-10 cars, so early arrival is recommended. Parking is free. The access road is narrow and may be challenging for larger vehicles.
Walking

From Ambleside town center, an easy walk of about 30-40 minutes follows the main road downhill to the garden entrance. For a more adventurous route, take the path behind the mountain rescue base via Jenkins Crag, which includes steeper terrain and scenic views.

Stagshaw Gardens location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Stagshaw Gardens

Natural Beauty and Seasonal Splendor

Stagshaw Garden is celebrated for its spectacular springtime display, when azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias burst into vibrant bloom. This woodland garden, located on the northern tip of Lake Windermere near Ambleside, offers a lush and colorful experience from April through May. The garden’s hillside setting creates a dynamic landscape of steep paths and varied terrain, inviting visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Lake District’s flora. Native daffodils and bluebells add to the seasonal charm, making it a must-visit for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Woodland Walks Amidst Tall Trees

Beyond the cultivated garden areas, Stagshaw extends into Skelghyll Woods, home to some of Cumbria’s tallest trees, including England’s tallest grand fir. The woodland trails provide a peaceful escape into nature, with benches strategically placed for rest and picnics. The terrain can be rugged and steep in places, offering a more adventurous walk for those willing to explore beyond the main garden paths. The mix of towering trees and understory shrubs creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for mindfulness and quiet reflection.

Historic and Cultural Context

The garden is part of a rich cultural landscape near Ambleside, featuring nearby attractions such as the quirky Bridge House and the Roman Fort. Dora’s Field, once owned by poet William Wordsworth, lies close by and offers a picturesque picnic spot surrounded by daffodils planted by the poet himself. This connection to literary heritage adds depth to the visitor experience, blending natural beauty with cultural significance.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Stagshaw Garden is open daily from dawn until dusk, with free admission. The garden includes well-maintained paths, though visitors should be prepared for uneven and sometimes wet ground, as well as steep inclines. A small car park with limited spaces serves the garden, and additional toilets are available nearby at Waterhead and Millerground car parks. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads due to grazing animals in the area. Benches and picnic areas are available to rest and enjoy the views of the surrounding fells and Lake Windermere.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

While the garden offers step-free access at its most accessible entrance, much of the terrain is varied and includes steep and rugged sections with steps. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity. The garden’s hillside location rewards visitors with stunning views and a sense of tranquility away from the bustle of Ambleside town.

Conservation and Stewardship

Managed by the National Trust, Stagshaw Garden is part of a protected natural and cultural heritage site. The garden’s care emphasizes sustainability and preserving its unique woodland environment. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural setting by following Leave-No-Trace principles and keeping dogs on leads to protect wildlife and grazing animals.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aira Force Waterfall

17.8 km

Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.

National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater

17.8 km

Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater

Bowder Stone

18.5 km

Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Lake District National Park Authority

18.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Honister Slate Mine

18.8 km

Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.

National Trust - Sizergh

19.1 km

Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.

Lodore Falls

19.5 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.

Surprise View

19.6 km

Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ashness Bridge

20.1 km

Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.

Eskdale Mill

20.4 km

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

20.8 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.

Levens Hall

21.1 km

Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Cockpit Stone Circle

21.9 km

Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

22.6 km

Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.

Friars Crag

22.6 km

Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.

Unmissable attractions to see

Borrans Park

0.7 km

Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.

Ambleside Roman Fort

1.0 km

Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.

Ambleside Town Centre

1.5 km

Ambleside Town Centre: A vibrant market hub at Lake Windermere’s edge, blending heritage, nature, and local charm.

White Platts Recreation Ground

1.5 km

A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.

RockShop

1.7 km

Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.

Rothay Park

1.7 km

A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.

The Bridge House

1.8 km

A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.

Golden Rule

1.8 km

Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.

Armitt Library & Museum Centre

1.9 km

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside and the Lake District at The Armitt, a unique museum, gallery, and library founded in 1912.

National Trust - Wray

1.9 km

Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.

Brockhole on Windermere

2.1 km

Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.

Zip World Windermere

2.1 km

Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.

National Trust - Townend

2.7 km

Step back into 400 years of Lake District family life at Townend, a charming farmhouse with unique books, carved furniture, and tranquil gardens.

Stepping Stones

3.0 km

A tranquil riverside retreat under Loughrigg near Ambleside, blending scenic beauty with cozy comfort in the heart of the Lake District.

Holehird Gardens

3.7 km

Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.

Essential places to dine

The Samling Hotel

0.5 km

Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Blue Smoke on the Bay

0.9 km

Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

1.0 km

Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.

Lake Road Kitchen

1.5 km

An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.

Lucy's on a plate

1.6 km

A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

1.6 km

Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.

The Priest Hole Restaurant

1.6 km

Historic 16th-century setting serving hearty British and Cumbrian dishes with warm hospitality in the heart of Ambleside.

Dodds Restaurant

1.8 km

Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.

The Gaddum

2.1 km

Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

3.3 km

A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

5.3 km

A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

5.4 km

Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.

Hooked Seafood

5.5 km

Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.

Stove Restaurant & Bar

5.9 km

Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.

The Westmorland Inn

6.2 km

Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.

A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Windermere Social Club

5.7 km

A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.

Wheelhouse Nightclub

6.5 km

Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.

The loose moose

30.4 km

A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.

The Lounge C9

38.0 km

Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.

Manhattans Nightclub

38.1 km

Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.

Hollywood Nightclub

38.1 km

Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.

secret bridge

39.6 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.

Secret Carlisle

52.7 km

Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.

Club Britannia

52.9 km

A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.

Carlisle R A O B Club

53.2 km

Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.

Black Box Music Institute

53.3 km

An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.

Settle Working Mens Club

58.8 km

Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.

The George Inn

59.8 km

Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

G & P Events and Mobile Bars

66.2 km

Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.

Peek A Booze

66.4 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Stagshaw Garden: A Woodland Haven Near Ambleside

A brief summary to Stagshaw Gardens

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

Stagshaw Gardens location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Stagshaw Gardens

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Stagshaw Gardens

Natural Beauty and Seasonal Splendor

Woodland Walks Amidst Tall Trees

Historic and Cultural Context

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Conservation and Stewardship

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aira Force Waterfall

National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater

Bowder Stone

Lake District National Park Authority

Honister Slate Mine

National Trust - Sizergh

Lodore Falls

Surprise View

Ashness Bridge

Eskdale Mill

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

Levens Hall

The Cockpit Stone Circle

Castlerigg Stone Circle

Friars Crag

Unmissable attractions to see

Borrans Park

Ambleside Roman Fort

Ambleside Town Centre

White Platts Recreation Ground

RockShop

Rothay Park

The Bridge House

Golden Rule

Armitt Library & Museum Centre

National Trust - Wray

Brockhole on Windermere

Zip World Windermere

National Trust - Townend

Stepping Stones

Holehird Gardens

Essential places to dine

The Samling Hotel

Blue Smoke on the Bay

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

Lake Road Kitchen

Lucy's on a plate

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

The Priest Hole Restaurant

Dodds Restaurant

The Gaddum

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

The Tilly Bar and Kitchen

Hooked Seafood

Stove Restaurant & Bar

The Westmorland Inn

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Booths, Windermere

Forget Me Not

The Original Man Shop

Pretty Things

Herdy Bowness

LAKELAND Leather

Tesco Express

Lonsdale Galleries

Mountain Warehouse

Love the Lakes Bowness

Sainsbury's