The best gardens to visit in Shropshire

Attingham Park

Located near Shrewsbury, Attingham Park is a stunning Georgian mansion surrounded by vast parkland and gardens. The beautifully landscaped grounds offer visitors a chance to explore various garden features such as the Walled Garden, the Pleasure Grounds, and the Deer Park. The Walled Garden, in particular, is a must-visit, with its vibrant flower borders, fruit trees, and tranquil water features. Attingham Park also hosts seasonal events, including plant fairs and outdoor concerts, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

Notable features of Attingham Park include its picturesque Regency estate, which spans approximately 640 acres. Additionally, the park is renowned for its wildlife, including fallow deer that can often be spotted roaming freely. The mansion itself offers a glimpse into the lives of the Berwick family, who resided there during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Address: Atcham, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 4TP
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm

Dorothy Clive Garden

Situated in the picturesque village of Willoughbridge, the Dorothy Clive Garden offers visitors a peaceful and intimate garden experience. Known for its stunning seasonal displays, the garden features various areas, including the Cottage Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Woodland Quarry. The Cottage Garden is particularly enchanting, brimming with colorful blooms and fragrant flowers.

This garden is famous for its namesake, Mrs. Dorothy Clive, who transformed the former quarry site into the exquisite garden it is today. Her passion for gardening and plants inspired the creation of this unique and beautiful space.

Address: Willoughbridge, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 4EU
Opening Times: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Hodnet Hall Gardens

Hodnet Hall Gardens, nestled in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The garden's stunning design and extensive collections of rare plants and trees make it an exceptional destination. Visitors can meander through the various themed sections, including The Edwardian Garden, The Walled Garden, and The Lakeside Walk, each offering its own unique charm.

This garden is associated with the Eden family, who have owned Hodnet Hall for over 350 years. The current owner, Mr. James Eden, has dedicated himself to maintaining and enhancing the gardens, ensuring their beauty is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Address: Hodnet, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 3NN
Opening Times: Gardens open on specific days and times, please check their website for details.

Weston Park

Situated on the Shropshire-Staffordshire border, Weston Park boasts stunning gardens and parkland that are sure to captivate visitors. The Capability Brown-designed parkland offers breathtaking vistas and tranquil lakeside walks. The gardens at Weston Park boast an impressive collection of exotic plants in the Italian Parterre, intricately manicured yew hedges, and a grand Orangery filled with vibrant species.

Weston Park has connections to the prominent Bridgeman family, who have resided there for over 300 years. Notably, the park has hosted famous guests, including Sir Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria, adding to its historical significance.

Address: Weston-under-Lizard, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8LE
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm

Wollerton Old Hall Garden

Wollerton Old Hall Garden, near Market Drayton, is a masterpiece of design and horticulture. The garden showcases a harmonious blend of formal and informal planting styles, featuring vibrant borders, tranquil water features, and hidden paths lined with fragrant roses. Each season brings new enchantment, creating a timeless experience for visitors.

Notable features of Wollerton Old Hall Garden include its unique 'Chinese Puzzle' design, created by its owners, John and Lesley Jenkins, who have dedicated over 30 years to its restoration and cultivation. Their passion and expertise are evident in every corner of this exceptional garden.

Address: Wollerton, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 3NA
Opening Times: Open daily (except Mondays) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Powis Castle and Garden

Powis Castle and Garden, located near Welshpool, offers visitors a chance to experience stunning historic architecture and breathtaking garden landscapes. The terraced garden, influenced by Italian and French designs, features intricate balustrades, beautiful statues, and perfectly manicured hedges. The variety of colorful flower beds, including the renowned herbaceous borders, provides a vibrant display throughout the year.

This garden is associated with the famous Herbert family, who have resided in Powis Castle for over 400 years. Lady Violet Clive, one of the key figures related to the garden, redesigned and expanded the gardens to their present-day magnificence in the early 20th century.

Address: Welshpool, Powys, SY21 8RF
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm

Bridgemere Garden World

Bridgemere Garden World, located in Nantwich, is not just a garden but a paradise for plant enthusiasts. This impressive garden center covers 50 acres and boasts an extensive range of plants, from rare and exotic species to everyday favorites. Visitors can explore various show gardens, such as the Mediterranean Garden and the Wildlife Garden, and gain inspiration for their own gardening endeavors.

Bridgemere Garden World has connections to the renowned nurseryman, John Ravenscroft, who established the garden center over 60 years ago. His vision and dedication have turned Bridgemere into a horticultural haven for plant lovers of all levels.

Address: Bridgemere, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 7QB
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

The Dingle

The Dingle, situated within the Quarry Park in Shrewsbury, is a charming riverside garden known for its tranquil setting and diverse flora. Visitors can walk along the winding paths, crossing the footbridges over the river, while admiring a wide range of plants that thrive in this beautiful location. The garden offers stunning views of the River Severn and includes a network of caves, adding an element of mystery to its allure.

This garden is related to the famous Darwin family, particularly Charles Darwin, the renowned naturalist. The Dingle was dedicated and opened in 1887 as a memorial to Charles Darwin.

Address: Quarry Park, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 1JA
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 8:00 am to dusk

Whittington Castle Gardens

Situated in the charming village of Whittington, Whittington Castle Gardens offer a delightful blend of history and nature. The gardens, surrounding the medieval castle, feature picturesque walks, vibrant flower borders, and a tranquil moat garden. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Notably, the castle has connections with famous historical figures, such as Owain Glyndwr, as it was once used as his headquarters during the Welsh revolt against the English crown in the early 15th century.

Address: Castle St, Whittington, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 4DF
Opening Times: Gardens open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Dudmaston Estate

Located near Bridgnorth, the Dudmaston Estate offers visitors a perfect blend of gardens, woodland walks, and stunning lake views. The formal gardens, with their vibrant flower borders and serene reflections in the water, create an idyllic setting. Visitors can explore the extensive parkland and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna that call this estate home.

Notable individuals related to Dudmaston Estate include the Wolryche family, who were its owners for over 875 years. Additionally, the gardens saw the influence of the renowned English landscape architect, Thomas Mawson, in the 20th century.

Address: Quatt, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV15 6QN
Opening Times: Gardens open on specific days and times, please check their website for details.