As the Chelsea Flower Show bursts into bloom this week, we’re feeling more inspired than ever by the joy that gardens bring—whether in the heart of London or the rolling green of the Lake District.
While Chelsea’s show gardens may steal the spotlight with sculptural hedges and avant-garde florals, here at The Swan Hotel & Spa in Newby Bridge, we like to think our gardens tell a story too—one that’s wild at heart, rooted in nature, and proudly sustainable.
Sustainable Gardening in the Lake District
We believe beautiful gardens shouldn’t cost the earth. That’s why our approach to planting is eco-conscious, seasonal, and grounded in local biodiversity. Our team works with the natural landscape—rather than against it—choosing flowers, shrubs, and greenery that thrive in the Cumbrian climate without chemical fuss.
We’re all about low-impact gardening—think peat-free compost, pollinator-friendly blooms, and perennials that return year after year like old friends. Our paths are lined with hardy native species, and our garden beds are designed to encourage bees, birds, and butterflies to make themselves at home.
Locally Grown, Lovingly Tended
All of our flowers and plants are sourced just down the road from the brilliant team at Beetham Nurseries—a local gem known for quality, sustainability, and expert plant knowledge. By keeping it local, we reduce transport emissions, support regional growers, and get the freshest blooms straight into our soil.
Whether it’s the vibrant foxgloves outside Holte Spa or the tumbling lavender near the garden rooms, every corner of The Swan celebrates the joy of Lake District planting done well—a softer, wilder take on garden design that’s as calming as it is beautiful.
Just a short drive from us, nestled along the A6 in South Cumbria, Beetham Nurseries is a much-loved, family-run garden centre with a real passion for plants. Established in 1984, this independent gem is known for offering something truly special—from everyday gardening essentials to the rare and exotic finds tucked away in The Glasshouse within their Growing Nursery.
We source many of our plants and flowers from Beetham Nurseries, knowing we’re getting top-quality greenery that’s been nurtured with care (and often grown just down the road!). Their outdoor plant area is a paradise for green-fingered visitors, and the Garden Centre is packed with everything from compost and tools to wildlife feed, bulbs, and seasonal vegetable plants.
But it’s not all about the garden. Guests can relax over breakfast, lunch, or a wood-fired pizza at their inviting cafés, or browse beautifully curated gifts, homewares, and lifestyle finds—including local artisan brands and charming children’s toys.
We’re big fans—and we think you will be too.
Photo Credit Beetham Nurseries
The Swan’s Take on a Chelsea Garden
We might not have a gold medal from the RHS (yet!), but we like to think we’ve carved out our own little slice of floral paradise. Our gardens are designed to be walked through, relaxed in, and admired with a glass of wine in hand. They’re the backdrop to wedding photos, morning coffees, and sunset strolls along the river.
Plus, we bring the outside in—fresh flowers from our garden and Beetham Nurseries regularly appear in guest rooms and our spa spaces, adding a touch of nature to every stay.
Visit Us and See What’s Blooming
If you’re visiting the Lake District this spring or summer, pop by and explore our gardens for yourself. Whether you’re staying overnight, unwinding in Holte Spa, or just stopping for lunch, there’s always something blooming at The Swan.
This Chelsea Flower Show week, we’re raising a (watering) can to all things floral, local, and sustainable. Join us on Instagram and Facebook as we share our favourite garden corners and blooms—we’d love to see yours too. 🌸
