Holehird Gardens: A Timeless Lakeland Sanctuary
Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.
Holehird Gardens, a 12-acre fellside garden near Windermere, is a volunteer-run Lakeland Horticultural Society site and an RHS Partner Garden. It features diverse plant collections including National Plant Collections of astilbes, ferns, and hydrangeas, set against stunning views of Lake Windermere and the Lakeland fells. Open year-round from dawn to dusk, the gardens offer a tranquil retreat with accessible paths, a historic walled garden, and a rich horticultural heritage.
A brief summary to Holehird Gardens
- Patterdale Road, Windermere, LA23 1NP, GB
- +441539446008
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring cash for donations and plant purchases, as entry is by donation and plant sales are cash-only.
- Visit between April and October to access staffed Visitor Information and join free guided walks on Wednesdays.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hillside terrain and some steep paths.
- Check the garden’s social media for seasonal highlights and updates on plant collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Windermere town center to Patterdale Road near Holehird Gardens, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Service frequency varies, so check current timetables. The stop is about a 10-minute walk to the garden entrance. No direct ticket sales on board; purchase tickets in advance or via mobile apps.
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Taxi
Taxis from Windermere town center to Holehird Gardens take around 10 minutes. This is a convenient option if you prefer direct access and flexibility. Expect fares in the range of £10-£15. Taxi availability is good in Windermere, but booking ahead during peak times is recommended.
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Car
Driving to Holehird Gardens via the A592 is straightforward, with parking available at the garden entrance. Parking is free but limited, so early arrival is advised during busy periods. The garden is accessed by a steep tarmac drive from the car park to the walled garden area.
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Walking
For those staying in Windermere, a walk of approximately 30-40 minutes along Patterdale Road offers a scenic route to the gardens. The terrain includes some uphill sections and may not be suitable for all visitors with mobility issues.
Holehird Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Holehird Gardens
A Legacy Rooted in Lakeland History
Holehird Gardens, nestled on a hillside near Windermere, spans approximately 12 acres and is managed by the Lakeland Horticultural Society. The site was transformed from an abandoned rock garden into a celebrated garden for all seasons. The historic house on the estate, designed by J.S. Crowther in 1865, now serves as a nursing home and is not open to the public, but the gardens themselves are freely accessible. The walled garden, constructed in 1870 and expanded by renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson in 1898, was originally designed to cultivate vines, peach trees, and orchids, reflecting the Victorian passion for horticultural innovation.Botanical Richness and National Collections
The gardens boast a remarkable diversity of plants well-suited to the local soil and climate. Highlights include alpine and heather beds, extensive rhododendron and azalea collections, and herbaceous borders within the walled garden. Holehird holds National Plant Collections of astilbes, polystichum ferns, and hydrangeas, making it a vital repository for plant conservation and study. The garden’s layout combines formal and naturalistic elements, with island beds and newly created accessible paths that reveal sweeping panoramas of the surrounding Lakeland fells and Lake Windermere.Volunteer Spirit and Community Engagement
Operated entirely by dedicated volunteers, Holehird Gardens relies on visitor donations to maintain its beauty and facilities. The volunteer gardeners not only care for the plants but also lead free guided walks from May to September, sharing their expertise and passion. The Visitor Information center, open from April to October, offers maps, children’s trails, plant sales featuring homegrown specimens, and refreshments. This community-driven approach fosters a welcoming atmosphere and ensures the garden’s sustainability.Natural Beauty and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Holehird Gardens can enjoy year-round access from dawn to dusk, with the best visiting hours supported by staffed information points in warmer months. The garden’s elevated position provides spectacular views across Lake Windermere and the Lakeland fells, enhancing the sensory experience of strolling through its varied plantings. Seating areas scattered throughout offer moments of rest and reflection amid the tranquil surroundings. The garden’s design encourages exploration, with new paths enabling access to previously hidden vistas and plantings.Connections to Cultural Heritage
Holehird Gardens holds cultural significance beyond its horticultural value. Beatrix Potter, the famed author and illustrator, visited the estate in the late 19th century, drawing inspiration from its woods and natural surroundings. The garden’s historical layers, from Victorian landscaping to modern conservation efforts, weave a narrative of Lakeland’s evolving relationship with nature and gardening traditions.Planning Your Visit and Accessibility
The gardens are open daily throughout the year, with visitor information and facilities available seasonally. Donations are encouraged to support ongoing maintenance, with a suggested minimum of £6 per adult and free entry for children. While some paths are steep, recent improvements have enhanced accessibility, and wheelchair-friendly routes are available with guidance from the Visitor Information center. The garden welcomes families, solo travelers, and plant enthusiasts alike, offering a peaceful yet engaging environment for all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Sizergh
15.5 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Levens Hall
17.7 km
Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
19.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
19.8 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Aira Force Waterfall
19.8 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
The Westmorland Family
20.2 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Scafell Pike
20.5 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Westmorland County Showground
20.8 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Bowder Stone
22.1 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Honister Slate Mine
22.5 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
22.7 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Lodore Falls
23.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
Surprise View
23.1 km
Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Eskdale Mill
23.4 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Ashness Bridge
23.6 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
1.1 km
Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
1.4 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
National Trust - Townend
1.6 km
Step back into 400 years of Lake District family life at Townend, a charming farmhouse with unique books, carved furniture, and tranquil gardens.
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.
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
2.1 km
Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
2.1 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
Brockhole on Windermere
2.2 km
Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.
National Trust - Wray
3.6 km
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
3.7 km
Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
3.8 km
Step into the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales in the heart of the Lake District with immersive exhibits and a charming garden.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
4.0 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Lake District
4.2 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Borrans Park
4.4 km
Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.
Latterbarrow
4.6 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
Ambleside Roman Fort
4.7 km
Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.
Essential places to dine
The Gaddum
2.1 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
2.1 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
2.2 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Hooked Seafood
2.4 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
2.8 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
2.9 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
The Samling Hotel
3.2 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
The Westmorland Inn
3.5 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Flying Pig Pub
3.8 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Magic Roundabout
3.8 km
A vibrant café and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere offering diverse British cuisine, inclusive menus, and a lively atmosphere from morning to late night.
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
3.8 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Porto Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine with locally sourced flavors in a warm, inviting setting just steps from Lake Windermere.
The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel
3.9 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
4.0 km
Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
4.3 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
2.1 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
2.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
3.7 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
3.7 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
3.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
LAKELAND Leather
3.8 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
3.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
3.8 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
3.9 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Love the Lakes Bowness
3.9 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Sainsbury's
12.7 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Elephant Yard Shopping
13.0 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
13.0 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Waterstones
13.1 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
13.1 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake District Cocktail Co.
1.8 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
2.0 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
2.1 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
2.1 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
2.1 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
3.1 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
The Albert
3.8 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Hole in t' Wall
3.8 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
3.8 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Fizzy Tarté
3.8 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
The Easy Breeze
3.9 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
4.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Arts Bar
4.0 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
4.1 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
Quayside Bowness
4.3 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
2.6 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
4.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
31.2 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
37.8 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
37.8 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
37.8 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
secret bridge
39.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
54.8 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
55.0 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Settle Working Mens Club
55.1 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
Carlisle R A O B Club
55.3 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
55.4 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
The George Inn
56.1 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
62.5 km
Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.
Peek A Booze
64.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
