Stagshaw Garden and Ambleside

Stagshaw Garden is an informal woodland garden on the steep hillside above Waterhead at the northern tip of Windermere, where rambling paths climb between azaleas, rhododendrons and unusual planting, with streams crossed by wooden bridges and glimpses of the lake through the trees. The National Trust's Ambleside holdings spread out from it: Skelghyll Woods next door, home to some of the tallest trees in England including the country's tallest Grand Fir; the remains of a 1st-century Roman fort by the lakeshore; and Bridge House, the tiny 17th-century building perched over the river in the town centre. Dogs are welcome on a lead throughout because of grazing animals. The easy 0.8-mile Ambleside Champion Tree Trail starts from the garden's car park and winds through the woods, and further Trust walks set off from Waterhead pier and from Bowness up to Post Knott. Reviewers say the garden is at its best in mid to late spring when the azaleas are out, and like its abandoned, natural feel. Tips from visitors: the car park up its single-track lane holds only eight cars, so arrive early or late, and the paths are steep, slippery when wet and no good for wheelchairs.