England's Lake District: Charming town of Cartmel and Holker Hall & Gardens

Holker Hall

In the 16th century, the Cartmel Priory owned Holker Hall and grounds. Later privatized, the estate and grounds were sold to the Preston family. The estate then passed by inheritance through the family line to the current Lord Cavendish.

Due to remodeling through the years and a fire in 1871, the current Holker Hall reflects the Victorian age. Holker’s graceful interior abounds with light and stunning artisanship utilizing fine carved woods, polished limestone and elegant marbles. Furthermore, an amazing feature for visitors is the large, open portion of Holker Hall that is accessible without ropes and barriers to obscure the views. This freedom affords visitors an intimacy and connection to the home that encourages a leisurely stroll and appreciation of the fine décor, artwork and structural sophistication.

Plan enough time to visit Holker Hall, as it is easy to lose yourself in the incredibly grand rooms, and magnificent library.

Upon completion of your tour, take a turn around the colorful and aromatic, floral-scented gardens. The romantic gardens consist of formal, woodland gardens and meadows that date back to 1720 and are bordered by extensive parkland. Head Gardener Yvonne Cannon and her staff stay busily employed throughout the year attending to the ever-changing garden landscapes, creating new designs of color and theme. Within this network of rare and exotic plants and trees, visitors will find a national collection of Styracaceae and the great Holker Lime.

Continue through the gardens and walk along ancient tree-covered lanes that herald views of Fallow deer grazing in the fields and stone steps that lead the visitor to new and hidden dimensions within the grounds. And, glorious water features and fountains that intertwine with brightly-hued rhododendrons and pungent Magnolias, that lead to the mystical Labyrinth Sundial.

After a dazzlingly splendid afternoon exploring the estate, take time to visit Holker’s tempting Courtyard Café, Food Hall and gift shop. The café offers indoor and outdoor seating in a marvelous courtyard with a gourmet menu that features savory items, delicate teas and a symphony of cakes, pastries and the absolute king of all British desserts, Sticky Toffee Pudding.

Both Holker Hall and the gardens are open to visitors during late March to November.

Photo by Patrice Raplee

Cartmel

The small and medieval village of Cartmel resides on the southern peninsula, just a few miles away from Holker Hall. This tiny village is but a few blocks long in its core, but fosters an immediate affection with its 800 year-old stone priory, cobblestone streets, gatehouse and modest-sized shops, pubs and inns. Just outside the village, walking paths meander past small gurgling brooks and stone-hewn bridges with views of green pastureland and hillsides.

Assuage your foodie pursuits in the Cartmel Village Shop, where unusual and hard-to-find items line the shelves. Preserves, cheeses, fresh breads, local produce and superior ales garner this shop the distinction of best, specialist and fine food shop in northern England. In fact, the shop was featured on the BBC's Great British Menu TV show and continues to draw gourmands from a far. More to the point, the shop is the birthplace of the famous Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding.

A little stroll to the 12th century Cartmel Priory is well worth your time. The church and its small graveyard appear as if they popped out of a romantic British novel. Step inside the main door to see a Norman archway and an ornately carved wooden gate that encircles the choir. Above, stained glass windows cast a warming glow on the alter and wooden misericords with their decorative carvings. Turn back toward the nave (the entrance) to see the coat of arms of William Marshall, who was the founder of Cartmel Priory.

Cartmel is an endearing ancient village and a wonderful place to stay and peruse. It’s the kind of place you write about in your diary and long to return.

Transportation to the Lake District

Transportation to and around Cumbria is accessible by coach, ferry, plane, car and the easiest and most expedient, by train. BritRail is an excellent way to unwind from an international flight and whether visitors fly into Heathrow or Manchester, the railway stations are conveniently located within the terminal complexes. Watch the lush countryside roll by and relax on a comfortable, train with hot teas, coffees and a variety of delectable meals or nibbles from the trolley. The train is a wonderful experience that builds your anticipation of the Lake District as urban centers turn into landscapes of unimaginable splendor. BritRail offers freedom for traveling in England and their FlexiPass options allow visitors to travel at their own time and pace to favorite destinations for very affordable prices. It is truly the smartest and most pleasant way to travel in the UK.