Stagshaw Garden
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Stagshaw Garden

4.4
·297 reviews·, United Kingdom

A tranquil woodland garden near Ambleside, famous for its vibrant spring blooms and scenic fell views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

April - May

Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Stagshaw Garden

Stagshaw Garden

Best Time

April - May

Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil woodland garden near Ambleside, famous for its vibrant spring blooms and scenic fell views.

4.4
(297 reviews)

"A forgotten gem with stunning azaleas and rhododendrons, offering beautiful walks and views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy shoes

The garden is on a hillside with steep inclines and narrow trails. :athletic_shoe:

Spring is prime time

Azaleas and rhododendrons are stunning in April and May. :cherry_blossom:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Vibrant blooms create a stunning spectacle, especially in spring. A true feast for the eyes.

Fell Views

Fell Views

Above the trees

Ascend the steep path for breathtaking panoramic views of the fells near Ambleside.

Tall Tree Trail

Tall Tree Trail

Stagshaw Woods

An engaging woodland trail with plaques detailing scientific names, common names, and origins of trees.

Enchanted Greenhouse

Enchanted Greenhouse

Stagshaw House

Discover a partially restored greenhouse with charming old sections and decorative iron staging.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peak Blooms

Visit during spring for stunning azaleas and rhododendrons, or summer for full bloom. Be prepared for steep inclines and narrow trails within the hillside garden.

Parking and Access Tips

Parking is limited to about 10 cars and can be tricky to access. Consider walking from Ambleside for a more adventurous approach, or be cautious exiting the car park onto the main road.

Best Times

When
April - May
Why
Azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer
Why
Full garden bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Today was just perfect. Watch the end to find out where we went 🙌🏻 #fyp #Summer #nationaltrust #uk @National Trust #daytrip #roadtrip #britishsummer
@livingwithjuju
28K likes • 1M views

Wear sturdy shoes

The garden is on a hillside with steep inclines and narrow trails. :athletic_shoe:

Spring is prime time

Azaleas and rhododendrons are stunning in April and May. :cherry_blossom:

exploring the Lake District on day 4 of our road trip ✨🌷👒 #lakedistrict #thelakes #thelakedistrict #england #englishcountryside #londontiktok #londondaytrip #windermere #ambleside #grasmere #grasmeregingerbread #keswick #langdalechase @The Langdale Hotel @Grasmere Gingerbread
@gisellee.lopezz
22.2K likes • 325K views
Stagshaw House near Corbridge was open today in aid of the Red Cross. Such a beautiful house and garden with wonderful views across the Tyne Valley. Excellent tea and cake, and the most amazing greenhouse … part restored, but loving the old unrestored sections with its decorative iron staging. Lovely to meet @andrew_bewick_antiques and @janedenchfield in the cake queue 🍰🫖
the_cloth_shed
96 likes • 1.3K views

Limited parking available

Only space for about 10 cars, and the exit can be tricky. :car:

Walk from Ambleside

An easy walk down the main road or a more adventurous route via Jenkins Crag. :walking:

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Ambleside and the Lake District? Check out this secret garden only 25 minutes walk (or 5 minute drive) from Ambleside 📍Stagshaw Gardens near Ambleside
lookwithneweyes
50 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy shoes

The garden is on a hillside with steep inclines and narrow trails. :athletic_shoe:

Spring is prime time

Azaleas and rhododendrons are stunning in April and May. :cherry_blossom:

Limited parking available

Only space for about 10 cars, and the exit can be tricky. :car:

Walk from Ambleside

An easy walk down the main road or a more adventurous route via Jenkins Crag. :walking:

Great for kids

The Tall Tree Trail is engaging for children. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(297 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Stagshaw Garden is a hidden gem, particularly praised for its stunning spring blooms of azaleas and rhododendrons. Visitors appreciate the beautiful woodland walks and the rewarding fell views accessible from the garden. However, the steep terrain and limited parking are noted drawbacks.

"Azaleas and Rhododendron in full bloom and quite stunning, but the garden is definitely a forgotten gem. Nice walk up the steep path above the trees gives stunning views of the fells beyond Ambleside"

bill glendinning

"Bit of a wet visit but the kids loved exploring the gardens! It's also a lovely safe place to let them explore and the range of huge trees was very impressive."

Danny Isaacs

"We had a lovely walk around the gardens. It is an easy walk down the main road from Ambleside or if you are more adventurous then you can walk behind the mountain rescue base and go via Jenkins Crag.

The garden itself is lovely in the Spring, but you can see how amazing it will be in Summer in full bloom. The different shrubs and trees are amazing. You do need to be able on your feet for the garden as it is built into the hillside and is full of narrow trails and steep inclines, but does have a few benches dotting around for those who want to take 5.

In addition in Stagshaw woods is a Tall Tree 🌲 Trail, this was really interesting and the 2 kids with us were running up and down the hill looking at the plaques on each tree. Which told us the scientific name, common name and place of origin."

Sarah Moore

What People Like

Stunning spring blooms
Beautiful woodland walks
Panoramic fell views

What People Dislike

Steep terrain
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Stagshaw Garden from Ambleside via an easy walk down the main road, or for a more adventurous route, take the path behind the mountain rescue base and go via Jenkins Crag. Reddit The garden is also a short drive from Ambleside. Instagram

Yes, there is a car park with space for about 10 cars. However, it's located on a 90-degree bend off the main road and can be a little uneven. The exit onto the busy road can also be tricky. Reddit

While cycling is possible, the garden's terrain is steep and has narrow trails, making it less ideal for cycling within the garden itself. The approach from Ambleside might be suitable for experienced cyclists. Reddit

If driving, be aware of the sharp bend for the car park entrance and the uneven surface. Exiting back onto the main road requires caution due to traffic. Reddit

Information on direct public transport to Stagshaw Garden is limited. However, Ambleside is well-served by buses, and from there, you can walk to the garden. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Stagshaw Garden is often mentioned in the context of National Trust properties or open days for charity. It's advisable to check for specific entry requirements or opening times, especially if visiting during an open day event. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, especially as it's sometimes open for specific events like charity open days. It's best to check local listings or the National Trust website if it's managed by them. TikTok

Admission fees may apply, particularly if visiting during a special event or if it's part of a managed estate. Some sources mention it being open in aid of the Red Cross, suggesting a donation or entry fee. Instagram

While the garden has different appeals throughout the year, it's most renowned for its spring blooms. Visiting in mid-October or early August might offer fewer flowers in bloom. Reddit

If Stagshaw Garden is managed by the National Trust, then National Trust passes would likely grant access. For charity open days, specific donation amounts might be requested. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The garden is built into the hillside, featuring narrow trails and steep inclines. It requires good mobility, though benches are available for resting. Reddit

Yes, children often enjoy the Tall Tree Trail in Stagshaw Woods, which has informative plaques about different trees. Reddit

In spring, Stagshaw Garden is particularly beautiful with azaleas and rhododendrons in full bloom, creating a stunning display of color. Reddit

Information regarding specific facilities like restrooms is not widely available. It's advisable to check beforehand or be prepared with your own provisions. Reddit

A walk up the steep path above the trees offers stunning views of the fells beyond Ambleside. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer atmosphere, especially during bloom seasons. Instagram

The areas with azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom are highly photogenic. The unique greenhouse and the panoramic views from the higher paths also offer great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in many gardens and natural areas to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check specific regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be useful for capturing both wide landscape shots and closer details of flowers. A macro lens can be great for close-ups of plants. Instagram

Focus on capturing the vibrant colors of the flowers, the textures of the woodland, and the expansive views. Experiment with different angles on the steep paths. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stagshaw Garden offers a delightful experience for families, particularly with the Tall Tree Trail in the adjacent woods. This trail is designed to be engaging for children, featuring informative plaques about various trees, making learning fun and interactive. Reddit

While the main garden has steep inclines, the woodland trails can be more manageable for younger children. The opportunity to explore and discover nature can be a great way to keep kids entertained. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

For those who enjoy a good walk, Stagshaw Garden provides excellent options. You can opt for a pleasant stroll from Ambleside, either along the main road or via a more scenic route over Jenkins Crag. Reddit

The garden itself involves navigating steep paths, offering a moderate workout with rewarding views. The surrounding woods also offer further walking opportunities, making it a great destination for a half-day or full-day excursion for active visitors. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Stagshaw Garden a picturesque location, especially during spring when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in bloom. Reddit The unique greenhouse with its decorative iron staging also presents interesting photographic subjects. Instagram

Beyond the floral displays, the panoramic views of the fells from the higher paths offer stunning landscape opportunities. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Woodland Trails

Beyond the main garden, Stagshaw Woods offers additional walking opportunities. The Tall Tree Trail is a particular highlight, featuring plaques that detail the scientific name, common name, and place of origin for each tree. This makes for an educational and engaging experience, especially for families with children who enjoy learning about nature. Reddit

The woodland walks provide a different atmosphere from the cultivated garden, offering a more natural and serene environment. These trails can be a great way to extend your visit and explore more of the local landscape. Remember to wear appropriate footwear as some paths can be uneven. Reddit

These trails complement the main garden experience, providing a well-rounded visit that caters to different interests, from horticultural beauty to natural exploration. Reddit

The Garden's Unique Terrain and Accessibility

Stagshaw Garden is uniquely situated on a hillside, which contributes to its charm but also presents accessibility considerations. The garden is characterized by steep inclines and narrow trails, meaning visitors should be prepared for a bit of a climb. Reddit

While this terrain can be challenging for some, there are benches strategically placed throughout the garden for those who need to rest. The steep paths also lead to rewarding viewpoints, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding fells near Ambleside. Reddit

For those with mobility issues, it's advisable to assess your comfort level with inclines and uneven surfaces before visiting. However, the unique layout is part of what makes Stagshaw Garden a special and memorable place to explore. Reddit

Seasonal Beauty: When to Visit for the Best Blooms

The most celebrated time to visit Stagshaw Garden is during the spring, particularly from April through May. This is when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom, creating a breathtaking display of vibrant colors that draws many visitors. Reddit

While spring is peak season, the garden also offers beauty in the summer when other shrubs and trees are in full bloom. However, visits in early August or mid-October might reveal fewer flowers, with the focus shifting more towards the woodland aspects. Reddit

If you're aiming for the most spectacular floral displays, planning your visit around late spring is highly recommended. This ensures you catch the garden at its most visually impressive. Reddit

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