Opening Times

The gardens are open daily throughout the year from dawn until dusk, and the reception desk is open from April to October, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

 

Click here to see the Holehird picture gallery.

  

 

Visitor Amenities

Volunteer wardens are present in Reception from Easter to the end of October to welcome visitors, and gardeners work throughout the year.

 

In Reception there is a display area featuring exhibits on such things as climate, soils and plant trials conducted by the Society.  The current display is Charles Darwin.

 

On Wednesday mornings, from Easter to October, at 11.00 a.m. there are guided walks through the gardens for small parties.

 

Please note that we don't have catering facilities. There are, however, many eating places in neighbouring Windermere and Ambleside.

 

 

 

 

Group Visits

Coach parties are welcome but it is essential to book in advance.  They are met at the entrance to the drive by guides, who, like the rest of the wardens and gardeners are purely voluntary and therefore need prior notice.  There is no charge for the guide service which provides a friendly commentary and local knowledge as well as knowledge of the gardens.

 

To book a group visit please contact us at:

 

Please include in your email the date and time of your visit, the number of people in your party and your contact name, telephone number and email address.

 

 

Accessibility

Most of the Walled Garden is accessible to disabled visitors, who may find it easier to enter through the North gate.  Much of the heather and winter gardens as well as the National Collection of Astilbe can be viewed from the main drive which has a gentle incline.  Please note, however, that the rockery slopes are steep and not suitable for wheelchairs.

 

There are toilet facilities, including a toilet for the disabled.

 

Dogs, except support dogs, are not allowed in the gardens.

 

 

Admission Charges

Admission and parking are free, but donations are welcome.

 

 

How to Find Us

From the A591 Windermere to Ambleside Road, follow the brown road sign and turn right at the mini-roundabaout on to the A592, signposted to Ullswater via the Kirkstone Pass.  Holehird Gardens are 1 mile along this road, just past St. Anne's School.

 

Link to MultiMap for longer distance directions (opens in new browser window/tab)

 

 

Information for Sat.Nav. Systems

Postcode: LA23 1NP

 

 

Visitors from the North

Please note that the directions given by Google and other online mapping sites may direct you via the tiny Dodd's Lane to the north of Holehird.  Please ignore these directions and stay on the A592 until you see the signposts for Holehird Gardens.

 

 

Walking from Windermere

Click here to download a leaflet describing two walking routes to Holehird Gardens from Windermere.  The leaflet is designed for printing on A4, folding into three and keeping handy in your pocket as you walk from Windermere to the Gardens.

 

 

Please see our Find Us page for location maps.