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In common with all horticultural societies, the LHS wishes to promote the practice of horticulture but the Lakeland Horticultural Society is unusual, possibly unique, in having restored and developed a garden of this size and importance as a base for the furtherance of its objectives.

The Lakeland Horticultural Society was formed in 1969 and in 1971 leased two acres of abandoned rock garden behind Holehird Mansion.

The original rock gardens were overgrown with brambles, willow herb etc. and only the larger shrubs and trees could fight their way above the undergrowth. Much had been lost and the 1970s were largely spent reclaiming this area, making new beds and paths and clearing the slope of the Upper Gardens.

In 1979 the Society took over the walled garden, gave it its present layout and built members' accommodation and reception.

As the Society grew and more volunteers joined, it took over the paddock, now the Trials area, and finally, in 2001 took on the lease of the Lower Gardens, thus uniting the original 19th century gardens around the Mansion.

The Lakeland Horticultural Society is a registered charity and every aspect of its work is done by volunteers. As well as the gardening this ranges from the wardening services, guides on garden walks, publications, organisation of lectures, garden tours and horticultural courses. It includes also the setting up of this website.