What's happening in August:

The large, deep yellow flowers of the evening primrose are produced throughout the summer months. Hardy geraniums or cranesbills are an important and invaluable mainstay. Geramium macrorrhizum, a spreading plant with strongly aromatic leaves, is planted close to paths so that the scent is released as people brush past.

What the gardeners are doing this month:

We patrol the garden regularly, trimming back branches overhanging paths and seats. We also cut the wildflower meadow.

Designer gardens

Come explore the 30 acre Thomas Mawson designed Arts and Crafts garden. With views over Windermere and towards the Langdale Pikes, this is a garden with a magnificent backdrop.

Depending on the season you can walk along the terraces to see dazzling displays of camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons filling the air with delicate fragrances.

Elsewhere there's the cherished Handkerchief Tree with its fluttering white flowers and the beautiful vivid crimson blooms of the Chilean Lantern Tree. Other features include:

• Herbaceous and mixed borders
• Old fashioned and shrub roses
• Wildflower meadow
• Kitchen garden with fruit, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers

We use environmentally friendly techniques including composting, recycling and the minimal use of pesticides, peat and water resources. The gardens are home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife and are open 365 days from dawn until 6pm.