The Best Gardens in the Cotswolds to Visit
Nestled in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is home to some of the country's most enchanting gardens, offering a blend of historical grandeur, horticultural excellence, and tranquil beauty.
My comprehensive guide to gardens in the Cotswolds invites you to embark on a journey through green landscapes, meticulously designed spaces, and heritage-rich grounds.
From the timeless elegance of Hidcote Manor Garden to the innovative designs of Bourton House Garden, this region promises an unforgettable exploration of floral splendor and garden design mastery.
Join me as we uncover the serene beauty and botanical treasures hidden within the Cotswolds' most beloved gardens.
For more inspirational gardens to visit, check out my guides:
The view of the Cotswold Malvern Hills from the top of the slope at Kiftsgate Court Gardens.
KIFTSGATE COURT GARDENS
Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a stunning garden located in the Cotswolds and is considered one of the region's most beautiful and unique gardens.
There are several reasons why Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a must-visit destination for garden enthusiasts.
Firstly, the garden offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
From the top of the garden, visitors can take in the sweeping vistas of the Vale of Evesham, the Malvern Hills, and beyond.
The garden's layout is designed to make the most of these views, with strategically placed seating areas and paths that wind their way around the garden's different sections.
Secondly, the garden boasts a wide variety of plant species, including rare and exotic plants that are rarely found in other gardens.
The garden's owners, the Muir family, have been collecting plants from around the world for over a century, resulting in a rich and diverse collection of flora.
Visitors can enjoy a range of plants, including roses, clematis, herbaceous borders, and more.
Finally, the garden has a rich history and a unique character that sets it apart from other gardens in the region.
The garden was created by three generations of women, and its design reflects their individual styles and tastes.
Visitors can explore different parts of the garden, each with its own distinct personality, from the formal terraces to the wildflower meadow.
Overall, Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a garden that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful and beautiful place to visit, Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a must-see destination in the Cotswolds.
Address: Kiftsgate Court Gardens, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, GL55 6LN, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Kiftsgate Court Gardens are open from March to October, with varying opening times depending on the month.
From March to May, the gardens are open on weekdays (Monday to Friday) from 12pm to 6pm, and on weekends and bank holidays from 10am to 6pm.
From June to August, the gardens are open daily from 10am to 6pm.
In September and October, the gardens are open on weekdays (Monday to Friday) from 12pm to 5pm, and on weekends and bank holidays from 10am to 5pm.
It's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times and admission prices.
‘The Ruins Garden’ at Sudeley Castle was an impressive sight covered in vines.
SUDELEY CASTLE GARDENS
Sudeley Castle Gardens is a historic and enchanting garden that is definitely worth a visit while exploring the Cotswolds.
Firstly, the garden is home to a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants.
The garden's design and planting schemes are inspired by the castle's rich history, with different sections of the garden reflecting different time periods.
Visitors can enjoy a range of plants, including herbaceous borders, topiary, and ancient trees, making it a garden with something for every type of plant lover.
Secondly, the garden is steeped in history, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in British history.
The castle itself dates back to the 15th century and has been home to many famous historical figures, including Katherine Parr, the last queen of Henry VIII.
The castle's gardens have also played a significant role in history, with parts of the garden used for growing medicinal plants during the 16th and 17th centuries.
The castle is surrounded by 10 notable gardens, and one of the first ones you will see upon visiting is ‘The Ruins Garden’.
Part of the castle was destroyed by Cromwell’s troops during the Civil War, and the remains of the original 15th century Banqueting Hall are the backdrop for this beautiful garden.
Another garden not to be missed is the Tudor knot garden that is comprised of 1,200 box hedges that form a pattern from a dress worn by Elizabeth I in ‘The Allegory of the Tudor Succession’, which hangs in the castle.
Thirdly, the garden's stunning vistas and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The garden is set in a tranquil location, surrounded by rolling hills and countryside, and visitors can stroll along the paths and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Lastly, the garden offers a range of events and activities throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for visitors of all ages.
From family-friendly activities to outdoor theatre performances, there is always something happening at Sudeley Castle Gardens. Overall, Sudeley Castle Gardens is a garden with a rich history, stunning plant collections, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Cotswolds.
Address: Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, GL54 5JD, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Sudeley Castle Gardens are open daily from late March to early December, with the exact opening hours varying depending on the time of year.
From March to October, the gardens are open from 10am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm.
From November to early December, the gardens are open from 10am to 4pm, with last admission at 3pm.
Please note that the castle itself is only open during certain times of the year, and additional admission fees apply. It's best to check the castle's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times and admission prices. Sudeley Castle visiting times.
Herbaceous borders at Hidcote Manor.
Hidcote Manor
Hidcote Manor is arguably one of the best gardens in England (and is located just 800 yards from Kiftsgate Court Gardens) and s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and innovative gardens in the Cotswolds.
Hidcote gardens is renowned for its stunning design, which was created by the visionary garden designer Lawrence Johnston in 1907 and is considered to be an Arts and Crafts masterpiece.
Johnston was a plant hunter and went on many plant-hunting exhibitions to China and South Africa, bringing back new species to feature in his garden.
The design of the garden way influenced by Gertrude Jekyll who had begun designing gardens as a sequence of “garden rooms” each interconnected but with their own distinct character. This can be seen in the ‘White Garden’ and ‘Stream Garden’.
The garden boasts a collection of rare and exotic plants from all over the world, including many species that are not commonly found in other British gardens.
The garden's horticultural collections are carefully curated and maintained, making it a fascinating destination for plant enthusiasts and garden lovers.
Lastly, the garden offers a range of events and activities throughout the year, making it a dynamic and engaging destination for visitors of all ages.
From seasonal walks and guided tours to outdoor theatre performances and family-friendly activities, there is always something new to discover at Hidcote Manor Garden.
Overall, Hidcote Manor Garden is a stunning and innovative garden that offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Its breathtaking design, rare and exotic plant collections, peaceful atmosphere, and engaging events program make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Cotswolds gardens.
Address: Hidcote Bartrim, near Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, GL55 6LR, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Hidcote Manor Garden is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm.
Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times and admission prices. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events. Hidcote Manor visiting times.
Vibrant pink cherry blossoms in spring.
Batsford Arboretum
Batsford Arboretum is a beautiful and unique garden that offers a range of features and experiences for visitors.
Batsford Arboretum is a 56-acre garden and park with trees from around the world with an emphasis on the Far East.
The gardens feature the National Collection of Japanese Flowering cherry trees, meaning they have at least 70% of known cultivars, making this an incredible place to visit in the spring.
The garden is also impressive in the autumn as the leaves begin to change color.
Their website features an ‘Autumn Watch’ and they rank when the leaves have reached their peak color if you want to plan your visit accordingly.
Secondly, the garden is located on a picturesque hillside overlooking the Cotswold countryside, offering stunning views and a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the garden's winding paths, take in the beautiful vistas, and relax in one of the garden's many peaceful seating areas.
Thirdly, Batsford Arboretum is home to a range of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and other insects, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
The garden's diverse range of trees and shrubs provide food and habitat for a range of species, and visitors can often spot rare and interesting wildlife as they explore the garden.
Lastly, the garden offers a range of events and activities throughout the year, including seasonal walks, guided tours, and workshops.
There are also several on-site shops and cafes, making it a great destination for a day out with friends or family.
Overall, Batsford Arboretum is a beautiful and unique garden that offers a fascinating array of trees and shrubs, stunning views, diverse wildlife, and engaging events and activities.
Whether you're a garden enthusiast, nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful and enjoyable day out, Batsford Arboretum is definitely worth a visit when exploring the Cotswold gardens.
Another bonus of this garden is that it is dog friendly.
Address: Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9QB, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Batsford Arboretum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with last admission at 4:15pm.
Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on access, opening times and admission prices. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events. Batsford Arboretum visiting times.
BOURTON HOUSE GARDEN
Bourton House Garden is a delightful garden located in the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Hill in the Cotswolds.
A winning three acre garden in the Cotswold countryside is surrounded an 18th-century manor house, Bourton House Garden is a relatively “new” garden.
It was developed in the 1980’s and is now considered to be one of the finest gardens in England. The goal of the owners was to turn a neglected wilderness into the perfect garden setting amongst the ancient Cotswold stone buildings.
The garden features wide herbaceous borders, a ‘White Garden Walk’ that leads to gates with a view of the Cotswold landscape and cottages in the distance, as well as several water features.
One of the features that the garden was most known for is the collection of topiary, including a knot garden with box hedging.
In 2021, due to box blight the garden team has decided to remove parts of this, so it will be exciting to see how this area evolves.
Lastly, the garden is home to several interesting historic houses and unusual features, such as a dovecote, a watermill, and a 16th-century Tithe Barn, all of which add to the garden's charm and historical significance.
Bourton House Garden is a beautiful and unique garden that offers a fascinating range of design, plants, art, and historical features. Whether you're a garden enthusiast, art lover, or simply looking for a peaceful and enjoyable day out, Bourton House Garden is definitely worth a visit when exploring the Cotswolds.
Address: Bourton House Garden, Bourton-on-the-Hill, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AE, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Bourton House Garden is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am to 5pm, between the months of April and October.
Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times and admission prices. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events. Bourton House Garden visiting times.
PAINSWICK ROCOCO GARDEN
Painswick Rococo Garden was built in the 1740s for hosting lavish garden parties and is known as one of the best examples of a rococo garden.
‘Rococo’ describes a type of art that was popular in the 1700s and was characterized by ornamental details and asymmetry. This is best seen in the follies that are dotted throughout the garden that are often described as “fantastical”.
It was at this time that gardens became a place where the wealthy could show off and impress.
Yet fashions changed and by the 1950s, the garden was abandoned and planted with timber. With the help of garden historians and paintings of the garden from the 1740s the garden has been completely restored to its former beauty.
The garden is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, many of which are native to the Cotswolds region.
Visitors can stroll through the garden's winding paths and discover a range of beautiful and unusual plants, including snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, and tulips, depending on the season. The garden is perhaps most famous in the Cotswolds for their 5 million snowdrops that appear in February.
Painswick Rococo Garden offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours, art exhibitions, and seasonal celebrations, such as Easter egg hunts and Halloween-themed events.
Also, the garden is surrounded by stunning views of the Cotswolds countryside, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely picnic or afternoon tea on the garden's lawns, while taking in the picturesque scenery.
Address: Painswick Rococo Garden, Gloucester Rd, Painswick, Stroud, GL6 6TH, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Painswick Rococo Garden is open to visitors from 10am to 5pm daily between the months of February and November.
Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times, admission prices, and special events. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events. Painswick Rococo Garden visiting times.
CERNEY HOUSE GARDENS
Cerney House Gardens is a beautiful cotswold garden in Gloucestershire that has been described by some as “like stepping into the pages of The Secret Garden”.
It is a romantic Victorian walled garden near a 17th-century house that is maintained organically and features large herbaceous borders with flowers that spill over the borders.
A garden that was extensively renovated in 1983 by a mother and daughter team, it showcases vegetables creatively planted amongst flowers and herbs planted amongst fruit trees.
Cerney House is also a popular garden to see snowdrops in February, as they have nearly 150 varieties on display.
The garden is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors can stroll through the garden's winding paths and discover a range of beautiful and unusual plants and flowers, including irises, roses, and exotic species from around the world. The garden's ponds, streams, and water features add to the peaceful and calming ambiance.
Secondly, Cerney House Gardens is home to a historic manor house, which dates back to the 1660s. Visitors can explore the house's rich history and architecture, and enjoy a range of art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
And thirdly, the garden offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours, gardening workshops, and seasonal celebrations, such as Christmas markets and Easter egg hunts.
Address: Cerney House Gardens, North Cerney, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 7BX, United Kingdom
Visiting times: Cerney House Gardens is open to visitors from April to October, on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, from 2 pm to 6 pm.
Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times, admission prices, and special events. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events. Cerney House Gardens visiting times.
