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Garden visits main menu >>> A Cumbrian Garden 0f Style - Holker Hall
Garden Background: The original gardens date back to the 1720's when Sir Thomas Lowther and his wife Lady Elizabeth Cavendish owned Holker. The gardens were formal with the obligatory clipped hedges. Extensive alterations were made in the late 18th century to create a natural landscape then in the early 19th century Lord Burlington sought the advice of Joseph Paxton and enlarged the gardens. A conservatory was built on to the west wing of the house and formal gardens with terraces and balustrades were added. The layout and planting of the gardens between 1882 and 1946 is largely the work of two women, Lady Evelyn (wife of Victor, who later became 9th Duke of Devonshire) and Moyra Cavendish. It was Moyra who asked Thomas Mawson to design the Rose Garden and coped with the garden during war time when there would be virtually no help. Each generation brings its own interpretations and so in 1992 the formal Edwardian garden was replaced by the exciting Elliptical Garden devised by the present Lady Cavendish. The Garden:
In spring you are treated to a fantastic display of Rhodendrons - then right through the year there is a succession of some of the most delightful plants, trees and shrubs you will find anywhere. I once saw Holker described as a "connoisseur's garden" and I can thoroughly agree. In autumn you find the most amazing tints of reds. Inspiration: Lots - You'll like the careful placing of statues and stonework. The new Labyrinth, set within a wildflower meadow is inspirational. The use of slate will give you lots of ideas. How to get there: Follow signs from A590 from Barrow or M6 junction 36 nearest railway station is Cark-in-Cartmel. Telephone 0345 484950 for details or visit website www.holker-hall.co.uk © Reckless Gardener Magazine 2005 Mill Cottage New Media |
Part woodland, part formal the gardens at Holker are mainly Victorian in character. What makes them special is the desire of the family to preserve the best of the old with more modern lively plantings and landscaping. Local materials are used and there is much evidence of slate. The slate planters at Holker are a knockout and you will also be impressed by a massive 12 tonne slate bowl, which is a sundial. There is always something to see at Holker no matter when you go. Additional notes website - Buy Online
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