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Snowdrops growing in the orchard in February with the house in the background at Acorn Bank, Cumbria
Snowdrops growing in the orchard next to the house in February at Acorn Bank | © National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

Gardens in the Lake District

A garden grown by Beatrix Potter, a riot of colour in castle grounds or an intriguing collection of culinary and medicinal herbs; the Lakes is known for dramatic country landscapes, but there are some fantastic gardens to explore, too.

Top gardens in the Lake District

Winter brings with it the chance to see National Trust gardens differently; from frozen ponds and skeletal acers to snowy views and frosty veg patches, you'll get a new perspective on nature.

Sizergh, Kendal 

Feel inspired with a stroll through the gardens at Sizergh and find out what you’re likely to see growing here when you visit.

Frosty early morning overlooking the south lawn at Sizergh, Cumbria

Acorn Bank, near Penrith 

The gardens are closed for winter, but we are hosting special weekend openings throughout February, when the snowdrops will be looking their best. Find more details here.

Snowdrops emerging underneath the apple trees in the orchard at Acorn Bank

Allan Bank, Grasmere 

Wander up from Grasmere to enjoy sweeping views from the formal lawns out across the lake to the snow-capped fells beyond. Keep an eye out for red squirrels in the wooded pleasure grounds.

Allan Bank in Winter

Stagshaw Garden, Ambleside 

Stagshaw's rambling paths and unusual combination of shrubs, trees and plants give this tranquil garden an enchanted feel, with views out to the lake and mountains beyond.

Bench with a view over Windermere Lake at Stagshaw Garden and Ambleside, Cumbria

High Close Estate and Arboretum, The Langdales 

Head to the Langdales and discover rare trees and shrubs from around the world at High Close Estate and Arboretum.

Great Langdale from Silver Howe, Central and East Lakes

Gardens further afield

Feel inspired with a whole host of gardens to visit across the north of England

Gardens in Liverpool and Lancashire 

To gardens filled with history and colour at Speke Hall, to a peaceful garden with canal walks at Rufford Old Hall, discover gardens to explore this winter.

A multi-generational family of three adults and one child walk through the gardens at Speke Hall. They are dressed for winter and pushing a pram.

Gardens and parks in Cheshire and Manchester 

From the woodland garden at Dunham Massey to the industrial garden landscape at Quarry Bank, discover winter gardens in bloom in this corner of the North West.

Exploring the garden at Dunham Massey, Cheshire

Gardens and parks in Yorkshire 

Enjoy Yorkshire's winter gardens and parks, from the landscaped views at Fountains Abbey, to the gardens within a garden at Wentworth Castle Gardens, pathways and borders at Nostell, and the Mediterranean Garden at Beningbrough.

Visitors walking along Lady Lucy's walk in winter

Top Gardens in the North East 

Embrace frosty mornings, glistening landscapes, and tranquil woodland walks across historic estates and dramatic scenery. From snow-dusted gardens to crisp, clear views, experience the serene beauty and seasonal magic that winter brings.

An elevated view of the Walled Garden at Wallington, Northumberland, on a frosty winter's day
View over Watendlath Tarn in autumn, surrounded by mountains, Borrowdale, the Lake District

Discover more in the Lake District

Home of Beatrix Potter, dramatic landscapes and fascinating history.