These beautiful gardens were designed by Thomas Mawson, the international lanscape architect in 1910, and rescued from dereliction from 1970. There is a panoramic view of Skiddaw to Buttermere from the terraces. Many ancient trees, balustrades, and two ornamental stone summerhouses remain, and newer plantings of trees, interesting shrubs and herbaceous plants have been added.

Several smaller gardens can be discovered within the five and a half acres. A cold house contains tender specimens. There is a large formal fish pond with many mature Golden Orfe and fancy goldfish.

Wood Hall has a spectacular site, and Mawson had made the most of it. A driveway led across fine park-like fields, with views towards Lorton and Buttermere. Originally the drive led to an imposing Victorian Gothic stone mansion, set back into a terrace cut partway out of a hill. Unfortunately this was the house’s downfall. Water from the hillside caused severe dry rot, and the house was demolished at the end of the 1940’s. The site was then abandoned for 20 years. All you can see now is the outline of where the house was.

To make an appointment to look round the garden, phone Mrs Jackson on 01900 823585. The garden is also open on various charity garden open days.