An informal woodland garden above Waterhead / AMBLESIDE

Stagshaw Garden

Wander among rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas and mature trees in this hillside garden created by National Trust land agent Cubby Acland. Spring flowers are a particular draw, while the trees and glimpses towards the lake give the garden a different character later in the year. Keep the visit separate from a longer Skelghyll Woods hike unless you want more climbing.

Flowering shrubs and mature trees in Stagshaw woodland garden — Photo: Graham Hogg

Before you go

Start from the Waterhead side and decide how much uphill walking suits you. The garden is informal and rugged; it is not a formal garden with a level circuit around flowerbeds.

The practical details

Where to find it: Stagshaw Garden, off the A591 at Waterhead, Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 0HE
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: The current calendar lists dawn-to-dusk garden access. No ordinary garden admission ticket is listed; check current notices and parking arrangements before travel. Flowering is seasonal. Longer trails into Skelghyll Woods and towards Jenkyn’s Crag require their own route and weather decisions.
Access and getting around: The National Trust describes much of the garden and neighbouring woods as steep and rugged, with some steps. There is a small parking area; toilets are at Waterhead rather than in the garden. Choose footwear and a route for uneven ground, and check current signs and conditions.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Better for a family that enjoys woodland exploring than one needing a playground or pushchair circuit. Keep dogs on leads, supervise on slopes and turn back before the climb becomes tiring. Spring flowers depend on the season and weather.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 45 minutes–1½ hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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