What's happening in November:
The gardens have a special atmosphere at this time of year, with gentle autumn mists and views of the lake and mountains opening up as the leaves fall.
The Pampas Grass is looking good and the coloured stems of Cornus and Rubus are coming into their own.
What the gardeners are doing this month:
With the arrival of wet and windy weather we are busy trying to keep on top of leaf clearing, as well as getting on to the borders to cut down the herbaceous plants, when we can do so without making too much mess. The visitor centre is now closed but the gardens and grounds are open all winter.
Birds and wildlife to look out for:
Deer, foxes and rabbits are regular visitors to the gardens. Winter thrushes are arriving from Scandinavia and large flocks can be seen feeding on yew and holly berries. A flock of sheep have arrived on site to graze the meadow over the winter – essential for maintaining the wild flower meadow in good condition.
Opening times
- Gardens, adventure playground and grounds open all year from dawn to dusk.
- House, cafe and shop open daily from 14 February - 27 March 2009 10am - 4.30pm
- Then from 28 March - 1 November 2009 open daily: 10am - 5pm
Designer gardens
Come explore the 30 acre Thomas Mawson designed Arts and Crafts garden. With views over Windermere and the towards the Langdale Pikes, this is a garden with a magnificent backdrop.
Depending on the season you can walk along the terraces to see dazzling displays of camellias, magnolias and rhodendrons filling the air with delicate fragrances.
Elsewhere there's the cherished Handkerchief Tree with its fluttering white flowers and the beautiful vivid crimson blooms of the Chilean Lantern Tree. Other features include:
- Herbaceous and mixed borders
- Old fashioned and shrub roses
- Wildflower meadow
- Kitchen garden with fruit, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers
We use environmentally friendly techniques including composting, recycling and the minimal use of pesticides, peat and water resources.The gardens are home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife and are open 365 days from dawn until 6pm.
Want even more visitor information?
Visit Golakes (opens in new window), the official website of the tourist board for The Lake District and Cumbria. Browse and book accommodation and attractions online and see what's on in the area.
