English gardens are famous all over the world and no holiday to England would be complete without a visit to at least one of them. You will find many different types of gardens: from pastoral parkland, formal parterres, wilderness gardens, herb gardens, delightful cottage gardens, kitchen gardens to the ambitious Contemporary Heritage Gardens designed by modern garden designers at English Heritage sites.
Audley End House & Gardens, Essex
Marvel at the sumptuous splendour enjoyed by royalty and aristocracy in one of England's grandest country homes and relax in the ‘Capability Brown’ landscaped park and Victorian gardens, including the magnificent parterre.
Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, Northumberland
There’s something for everyone at this spectacular site: a Neo-classical hall, the ruins of a 14th-century castle and 30 acres of gardens. Discover thousands of exotic species, famous rhododendrons and the magical Quarry Garden, with ravines, pinnacles and sheer rock faces inspired by the quarries of Sicily.
Brodsworth Hall & Gardens, South Yorkshire
Explore the changing fortunes of a wealthy Victorian family in their beloved country home. Outside, the 15 acres of woodland and gardens have been lovingly restored.
The Home of Charles Darwin – Down House, Kent
Charles Darwin, perhaps the most influential scientist of the 19th century, lived here. The gardens have been restored to their appearance in Darwin’s time and some of his outdoor experiments on natural selection have been recreated. Follow in his footsteps and follow the ‘Sandwalk’ – the scientists thinking path.
Kirby Hall, Northamptonshire
Kirby Hall is one of England’s greatest Elizabethan houses, built in the hope of receiving Queen Elizabeth I. The great gardens were added in the late 17th century. They are now partly restored and laid out in an elaborate ‘cutwork’ design. Peacocks roam in the garden.
Mount Grace Priory, North Yorkshire
Situated at the edge of the North York Moors National Park and on the Cleveland Way national trail, this enchanting site features a manor house, monastery and extensive gardens. The gardens are a haven for wildlife, including the famous ‘Priory Stoats’.
Osborne House, Isle of Wight
Osborne offers a glimpse into the private family life of Queen Victoria. Prince Albert worked with Cubitt on the Italianate design for the terraced formal gardens which complement the house. Visitors can also enjoy the Walled Garden much as Victoria and Albert did. There is a beautiful wild flower meadow near the miniature Swiss Cottage, built for the royal children.
Walmer Castle & Gardens, Kent
HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother enjoyed many summers here. See the rooms in which she entertained and stroll through the extensive gardens containing a commemorative lawn, woodland walk, croquet lawn and working kitchen garden. The remainder of the grounds is mostly wildlife gardens and a great place to spot birds.
Witley Court & Gardens, Worcestershire
Step back in time at the spectacular, atmospheric country house ruin set in beautiful gardens. Explore the parterre gardens, the woodland walks and watch as the stunning Perseus & Andromeda fountain– once the biggest in Europe – is fired regularly in summer.
Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Spend time in one of the most magnificent and enchanting gardens in England. Over 90 acres of breathtaking formal gardens to explore providing a fascinating history of garden styles.
Email this to a friend