Holker Hall and Gardens
About
Holker Hall is a magnificent 16th‑century country house set amid 80 hectares of parkland, deer park and woodland in Cumbria, England. The main building – a Jacobean‑revival style house – was largely rebuilt in 1838‑41 by the renowned architects George Webster and the partnership Paley & Austin, following a devastating fire in 1871 that gutted the original wing. The grand, red‑sandstone west wing features soaring towers, a copper‑capped cupola and richly carved plaster ceilings that showcase the artistic heritage of the Cavendish family. The estate is celebrated for its formal gardens, which cover 10 hectares and include the Elliptical and Summer gardens, the sunken garden, winding pathways, an impressive Holker Lime tree dating back to the 17th century, and beautifully curated evergreens and flowering beds designed by the landscape architect Thomas Mawson in 1910. Visitors can stroll through the pleasure gardens, admire the historic ice house and lodges, and enjoy the café and gift shop housed in the former stable block. Holker Hall welcomes the public during the summer months, offering a free entrance to the grounds and a modest admission fee for entry to the house and gardens. The site provides a memorable experience for history buffs, art lovers, and garden enthusiasts alike, with the opportunity to explore the richly furnished interior rooms, exquisite furnishings and collection of paintings, and the panoramic countryside views from the hilltop village of Grange‑over‑Sands.
Highlights
- Paley and Austin Architecture
- Rich Interior Art Collection
- Stunning Formal Gardens
- Holker Lime Tree
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn, from late May to early September, when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is pleasantly mild.