only a short distance from the sea, Holker Hall is magnificently situated and is set in exceptionally beautiful countryside with gardens merging into parkland, with hills on one side and the expanse of Morecambe Bay on the other. The Hall itself dates from the sixteenth century and has been passed by inheritance through the family line to its present owners Lord and Lady Cavendish. In 1871 a devastating fire destroyed much of the west wing which was later rebuilt on an even grander scale to be described as the best Elizabethan Gothic in the north of England. Inside you can admire the grand staircase, Chippendale furniture and library with over 3500 books.

You are free to explore the immaculately kept Gardens (25 acres in all) which are part woodland, part formal and essentially Victorian in character. Not to be missed are the spectacular display of Rhodendrons in the spring. The magnificent blooms grace the arbours and cascade with a riot of colour. Also not to be omitted from your visit is The Great Holker Lime, labelled as one of the finest and largest common limes (Tilia europaea) in Britain. This awe-inspiring tree measures 7.9 metres in girth. It was probably planted as part of a formal garden in the early 17th century. In 2002 Holker’s Great Lime was awarded the distinction of being one of Britain’s 50 Great Trees in honour of Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee. Lord and Lady Cavendish have sought not only to conserve the historic but have made changes and additions to the Gardens that are still being made today. In 2004 Holker Gardens was the recipient of the 2004 Cumbria in Bloom Special Award for Adventurous Horticultural Excellence. The Labyrinth, Holker’s newest creation, is set within a wildflower meadow. Labyrinths can be found in many cultures and are extremely symbolic. It is a wonderful place to refresh your spirits.