Stagshaw Garden

Stagshaw Garden is a National Trust woodland garden tucked between Keswick and Ambleside, managed for seasonal colour, shrubs and views over Windermere. Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the outdoor grounds and paths, which makes it a proper garden day out rather than a generic Lake District walk. There is a small National Trust car park with room for eight cars, so arrival is straightforward even when you are juggling leads and bags.

The garden is open dawn to dusk and the terrain is steep and rugged with some steps, so it suits dogs who enjoy a bit of scramble alongside woodland mooching. The National Trust notes that grazing animals are nearby, which is why leads are required and mess needs to go home with you.

It is a handy paws-included stop when you want managed paths, seasonal interest and lake views without splitting up the group. Because dogs are welcome throughout the grounds, everyone can explore together.