Britain in Bloom: the top gardens to visit

England

RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford, Greater Manchester  

RHS Garden Bridgewater launched in May 2021 as the newest addition to the Royal Horticultural Society’s portfolio. Open daily, the 156-acre garden in Salford, Greater Manchester, occupies the former Worsley New Hall estate, which was transformed for the project. Designed by renowned landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith, the garden features several themed areas, including a Kitchen Garden, vibrant floral displays, and a serene woodland walk. With an emphasis on biodiversity and sustainability, RHS Garden Bridgewater offers educational programmes, workshops, and seasonal events aimed at gardening enthusiasts of all ages.   

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Manchester Airport, with connections to the city centre taking around 20 minutes. Tram and bus services can provide onward connections to RHS Garden Bridgewater. 

Hatfield House, Park and Gardens, Hatfield, Hertfordshire 

Steeped in history and surrounded by lush parkland, Hatfield House (open from 5 April 2025) is one of England’s grandest Jacobean estates. The house, once the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, features opulent interiors, period furniture and a collection of paintings and tapestries. The surrounding park and gardens offer a mix of formal and wild landscapes, including seasonal flower displays, and an Elizabethan Knot Garden. The grounds have also starred in Sherlock Holmes, Paddington, Batman, and Spider-Man, alongside period dramas such as Bridgerton and The Crown. Visitors can stroll through ancient woodlands, explore the Stable Yard shops, or enjoy locally sourced cuisine in the estate’s café and restaurant. Throughout the year, the estate hosts outdoor concerts like the Slam Dunk Festival (24 May 2025) and the Battle Proms (19 July 2025). Visitors can also treat themselves to one of the special experiences on offer, from Champagne House Tours (group bookings available on request) to a Beekeeping Experience (group bookings available). 

Getting there: The nearest international airport is London Luton Airport. From Luton, take a train to Hatfield Station, which is a 15-minute walk from Hatfield House. Train services from London King’s Cross and London Moorgate to Hatfield take around 40 minutes. 

Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich, Cheshire 

Arley Hall and Gardens is a historic country estate with formal gardens (the gardens are open daily; the hall is only open several days each month) and a richly decorated Victorian mansion. Explore the herbaceous border, one of the oldest in Britain, bursting with colour throughout the seasons, or marvel at the architectural design of the Ilex Avenue, lined with Holm oaks. Visitors can also stroll through the Walled Garden, take woodland walks, and visit the arboretum. Inside the hall, grand interiors and a historic family collection provide insight into aristocratic life. Arley Hall has also gained film recognition, having starred in productions including Peaky Blinders.  

Getting there: The nearest international airport is Manchester Airport. Train services can provide connections to Northwich or Knutsford, with a taxi required to complete the journey. Alternatively, Arley Hall and Gardens is around 45 minutes by car from Manchester or Liverpool. 

Chatsworth House and Garden, Derbyshire 

Set within the rolling hills of the Peak District, Chatsworth House and Gardens offers a blend of history, fine art and horticulture. The 105-acre gardens, designed by 18th century landscape architect Capability Brown and later enhanced by Sir Joseph Paxton, feature elegant formal landscapes, cascading fountains, and winding woodland trails. Highlights include the Emperor Fountain, one of the tallest gravity-fed fountains in the world, the Rock Garden, and the Maze, which provides a fun challenge for visitors. The Kitchen and Cutting Garden displays seasonal produce and blooms, while the historic Glasshouses contain rare plant species. Inside Chatsworth House, visitors can explore opulent state rooms filled with fine art, tapestries and gilded ceilings, alongside an extensive collection of sculptures, including works by Antonio Canova.

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Manchester Airport. From Manchester, take a train to Chesterfield, then a bus or taxi to Chatsworth House. 

The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland  

The Alnwick Garden (open from 7 February 2025) is a 12-acre garden renowned for its striking design and innovative features. Opened in 2001 and developed by the Duchess of Northumberland, the garden boasts a stunning collection of themed areas, including the enchanting Poison Garden, which displays a variety of toxic plants, and the breathtaking Grand Cascade, the largest water feature in a British garden. Visitors can also explore the ornamental gardens, unique treehouses, and vibrant floral displays throughout the seasons. The Alnwick Garden offers a variety of workshops and events, while its proximity to Alnwick Castle makes it an idyllic destination for families, garden lovers and Harry Potter fans.  

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Newcastle International Airport, about 30 miles (50 km) away. From the airport, take a train to Alnmouth Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the garden. 

Highgrove Gardens, Gloucestershire  

Highgrove Gardens, the private residence of King Charles III, is a 30-acre garden nestled in the Gloucestershire countryside. Established in the 1980s, the gardens showcase a diverse array of plants and horticultural designs. Highlights include the wildflower meadows, the manicured formal gardens, and the renowned Kitchen Garden, which supplies fresh produce for the royal household. Guided tours offer visitors a unique insight into the garden’s design and its ecological ethos.  

Getting there: Driving is the easiest way to get to Highgrove. The closest train stations are Kemble (7 miles) and Stroud (12 miles). From either station, taxis are the best option to reach Highgrove. 

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Greater London  

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (open daily) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwest London, renowned for its expansive collection of more than 50,000 living plants. Spanning 326 acres (the equivalent of around 186 football pitches), Kew offers visitors the chance to explore diverse landscapes, historic buildings, and striking Victorian glasshouses, including the Palm House and the Temperate House. The gardens are dedicated to plant conservation, research, and education, hosting various exhibitions and events throughout the year.   

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is London Heathrow Airport. Kew Gardens Station can be found on the District Line of London Underground and the Mildmay Line of London Overground. 

Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham, West Midlands  

Birmingham Botanical Gardens (open daily), established in 1832, is a 15-acre green space located just a short distance from the city centre. The gardens feature a remarkable collection of more than 7,000 plants, set within landscaped grounds that include four glasshouses, each displaying diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. Visitors can wander through themed areas, such as the herb garden and the rock garden, while enjoying peaceful walks along winding paths. The gardens also host educational programmes, workshops, and seasonal events.  

Getting there: The nearest airport is Birmingham Airport, with train connections into the city centre taking around 20 minutes. Regular trains also serve Birmingham from London and Manchester, taking around one hour and 30 minutes. 

Bath Botanical Gardens, Bath, Somerset  

Bath Botanical Gardens (open daily), located in the city’s picturesque Royal Victoria Park, are a 2.5-hectare set of gardens which showcase a rich diversity of plant life. Established in 1887, the gardens feature seasonal displays, including vibrant flower beds, a sensory garden, and a picturesque rose garden, all framed by historic trees and beautiful landscaping. Visitors can stroll along the meandering paths, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and take in the views of the nearby Royal Crescent, as seen in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton.   

Getting there: The nearest international airport is London Heathrow Airport. Direct trains from London Paddington Station to Bath Spa take around one hour and 30 minutes. 

Sky Garden, London 

Located at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street in central London, Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden, offering 360-degree views of the city skyline. This indoor oasis features landscaped gardens with Mediterranean and South African plant species, creating a striking contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers. Visitors can explore the open-air terrace, admire famous landmarks such as The Shard, Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral, or relax in one of the garden’s stylish bars and restaurants. Entry is free, but advance booking is required. Look out for live music events and enjoy stunning sunsets over the River Thames. 

Getting there: The nearest international airports are London Gatwick Airport, London Heathrow Airport and London Stanstead Airport. From the airport, take the train to central London and then the London Underground to Bank Station. The Sky Garden is a five-minute walk from Bank. 

Cambridge University Botanic Gardens, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire 

Set in 40 acres of picturesque green space, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden (open every day) is a collection of over 8,000 plant species from around the world. The Glasshouse Range showcases tropical, Mediterranean and arid climates, while the Rock Garden offers a display of alpine plants. Visitors can stroll through the Woodland Garden, the Wildlife Garden, and the Plant Families Garden, which organises plants according to their botanical relationships.  

Getting there: The nearest international airport is London Stansted Airport. From Stansted, take a train to Cambridge, then a short bus ride to the garden. 

Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, St Ives, Cornwall 

The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden (open Tuesdays to Sundays) in St Ives is a tribute to one of Britain’s most influential 20th-century artists. Located in the former home and studio of Hepworth, the museum displays a fascinating collection of her iconic sculptures, drawings, and models, offering a deep insight into her creative process. The adjoining sculpture garden, set against the Cornish landscape, is an outdoor gallery where visitors can admire many of Hepworth’s large-scale works, placed harmoniously amid lush plantings and the accompanying sea views. This serene space blends art, nature, and the tranquil coastal environment that inspired much of Hepworth’s work.  

Getting there: The train is a scenic way to reach St Ives. Trains depart from London Paddington to St Ives with one transfer at St Erth. The trip takes about five hours. 

Tresco Abbey Garden, Tresco, Isles of Scilly 

Set on the island of Tresco, part of the Isles of Scilly, Tresco Abbey Garden (open daily) is a tropical paradise boasting more than 20,000 plants from around the world. Created in the 19th century on the site of a former abbey, the garden benefits from the island’s mild, coastal climate, allowing exotic species like succulents, palms, and Mediterranean plants to flourish. Visitors can wander through the sub-tropical gardens, explore the cloisters with their ancient stonework, or enjoy the spectacular views across the waters. The island itself offers scenic walks, pristine beaches, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. 

Getting there: To reach the Isles of Scilly, travel to Penzance in Cornwall, then take the ferry from Penzance to St. Mary’s (the main island). The journey takes approximately two hours and 45 minutes. From St Mary’s take a ferry to Tresco. Alternatively, Penzance Helicopters fly direct to Tresco, landing next to the garden.  

The Eden Project, Cornwall  

The Eden Project in Cornwall is an iconic environmental complex featuring two stunning biomes that display diverse plant species from tropical rainforests and Mediterranean climates. Opened in 2001 in a reclaimed china clay pit, it offers visitors a chance to explore outdoor gardens filled with native British plants and engage in exhibitions focused on biodiversity and conservation. With a range of workshops and events throughout the year, the Eden Project emphasises sustainability and our relationship with nature. In James Bond film Die Another Day, Bond drives his Aston Martin straight through the side of one of its iconic domes.  

Getting there: If arriving into London Heathrow Airport, take a train from Paddington Station to St Austell via Truro (with a change at either Plymouth or Truro). The journey takes around five hours. Regional bus services provide connections to the Eden Project. 

Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall  

The Lost Gardens of Heligan (open daily), located in Cornwall, is a magical 200-acre garden that has been captivating visitors since its restoration in the 1990s. Originally developed in the 18th century, these gardens were largely forgotten until a dedicated team revived them, revealing a blend of Victorian horticultural artistry and stunning landscapes. Highlights include the Jungle Garden, featuring exotic plants and towering palms, and walled gardens which showcase a variety of flowers and vegetables.   

Getting there: The nearest international airport is Bristol Airport. Take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to St Austell (approximately three-and-a-half to five hours). From St Austell, take a taxi (15 minutes) directly to the gardens. 

Wales 

National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire 

The National Botanic Garden of Wales (open daily) is set in the rolling countryside of Carmarthenshire. The centre piece is the Great Glasshouse, the world’s largest single-span glasshouse, which recreates the climates of the Mediterranean, California and South Africa, filled with rare and exotic plant species. The garden also features a double-walled garden, the British Bird of Prey Centre, and walking trails through meadows, lakes and woodlands. Film and TV fans may also recognise the site – it doubled as Bowie Base One on Mars in Doctor Who’s episode ‘The Waters of Mars’. 

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Cardiff Airport. From Cardiff, take a train to Carmarthen, then a bus or taxi to the garden. 

Bodnant Garden, Colwyn Bay 

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Snowdonia (Eryri) foothills, Bodnant Garden (open daily), spans 80 acres and is home to stunning Italianate terraces, herbaceous borders, and a Laburnum Arch, which bursts into bloom each spring. Visitors can explore woodland glades, tranquil lakes and exotic plant collections gathered from around the world. This magical setting also featured in the 2020 remake of The Secret Garden. 

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Manchester Airport. From Manchester, take a train to Llandudno Junction, then a bus or taxi to Bodnant Garden. 

Powis Castle and Garden, Powys 

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Severn Valley, Powis Castle and Garden (open daily) is known for its dramatic terraced gardens and historical collections. Originally built as a medieval fortress, the castle now houses a collection of tapestries, paintings, and treasures from India. Visitors can stroll through the Italianate gardens, with their centuries-old yew hedges and ornate statues, or explore the lower woodland walks and admire the views across the valley. 

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Birmingham Airport. From Birmingham, take a train to Welshpool, then a short taxi or bus ride to Powis Castle and Garden. 

Scotland 

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Regional Gardens 

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (open daily), established in 1670, is a 70-acre oasis in the heart of Scotland’s capital, offering a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore beautifully designed gardens, including the Rock Garden and the Chinese Garden, as well as glasshouses that display exotic species (currently closed as midway through an extensive renovation project). The garden is dedicated to plant conservation and research, hosting various exhibitions and events throughout the year.  Beyond Edinburgh, three sister gardens offer even more botanical beauty. Benmore Botanic Garden in Argyll (open from 1 March to 31 October 2025) boasts an avenue of giant redwoods. Logan Botanic Garden, on Scotland’s southwest tip near Galloway, has palm trees and plants. Dawyck Botanic Garden (2025 opening delayed), inland near Peebles, has one of Scotland’s finest tree collections, including some of Britain’s oldest trees dating back to 1680. 

Getting there: The nearest international airport is Edinburgh Airport, with connections to the city centre taking 20-30 minutes. Onward rail connections can provide access to the other gardens. 

Glasgow Botanic Gardens 

Situated in Glasgow’s vibrant West End, Glasgow Botanic Gardens (open daily) features diverse plant collections, scenic riverside walks, and historic glasshouses. The Kibble Palace, a 19th-century glasshouse, is home to rare tropical plants, tree ferns, and marble statues. The Main Range Glasshouses feature exotic orchids, carnivorous plants and cacti, while the outdoor gardens offer landscaped herbaceous borders, a rose garden, and woodland trails along the River Kelvin.  

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Glasgow Airport. From the airport, take the Glasgow Airport Express bus to the city centre, then another bus to the Botanic Gardens. 

Drummond Castle Gardens, Perthshire 

Drummond Castle Gardens is a masterpiece of 17th-century landscape design and is considered one of the finest formal gardens in Scotland (open from 1 May 2025). The parterre gardens with their symmetrical patterns, elegant fountains, and topiary create a striking visual spectacle. Overlooking the gardens, Drummond Castle provides a dramatic backdrop, although it is not open to the public. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined avenues, admire the ancient yew hedges, and take in sweeping views of the Perthshire countryside. The gardens have also featured in film and television, most notably in Outlander.  

Getting There: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport. From Edinburgh, take a train to Stirling or Perth, then a taxi or bus to Drummond Castle Gardens.