The best gardens to visit in West Midlands
Discover glasshouses, tropical plants, and more in the West Midlands
In this article:
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a stunning 15-acre green space located in Edgbaston, Birmingham. It offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and features an extensive collection of plants, trees, and flowers from around the world. The gardens are meticulously maintained, allowing visitors to enjoy serene walks through colorful beds, glasshouses, and themed gardens.
Notable features include the stunning Glasshouses, filled with exotic tropical plants and endangered species. The Bonsai Collection is also a highlight, showcasing this ancient Japanese art form. Additionally, the gardens host events and workshops throughout the year, making it an ideal place for both nature enthusiasts and educational visits.
Address: Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR
Opening times: Daily, 10am to 6pm
Witley Court and Gardens
Witley Court and Gardens, located near Great Witley in Worcestershire, is a breathtaking site that combines the grandeur of a historic mansion with beautifully landscaped gardens. The gardens were designed in the 19th century and have since been restored to their former glory. Visitors can wander through avenues of trees, formal gardens, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake.
One of the standout features is the Perseus and Andromeda Fountain, which erupts into a magnificent display when lit up at night. The gardens also offer stunning views of the superb architectural ruins of the mansion, which was tragically destroyed by fire in 1937. It is truly a place of both natural and historical beauty.
Address: Great Witley, Worcestershire, WR6 6JT
Opening times: Daily, 10am to 6pm (grounds only)
Eastcote House Gardens
Situated in the northern part of Eastcote, Ruislip, Eastcote House Gardens is a charming 16th-century walled garden that offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors can enjoy the beautifully manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and the serene atmosphere of the ornamental pond. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends.
The notable features of Eastcote House Gardens include the historic Grade II listed Eastcote House, parts of which date back to the late 1500s. The gardens also feature a Victorian-style glasshouse and a delightful kitchen garden. It's an idyllic spot where visitors can relax and connect with nature.
Address: Eastcote High Rd, Ruislip HA4 9SJ
Opening times: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Winterbourne House and Garden
Nestled in the leafy suburbs of Edgbaston, Birmingham, Winterbourne House and Garden offers a captivating Edwardian-style garden experience. The seven-acre garden surrounds a beautiful Arts and Crafts-style house and is known for its expansive lawns, vibrant borders, and charming rockery.
Notable features of Winterbourne House and Garden include the alpine garden, which showcases a variety of rare and unusual plants. The garden is also home to a wealth of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and avid photographers. The historical connections of Winterbourne House and Garden add to its allure, as it was once the home of the influential industrialist John Nettlefold.
Address: 58 Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham B15 2RT
Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Whitlenge Gardens
Whitlenge Gardens, situated in Hartlebury, Worcestershire, is a horticultural haven spanning ten acres. The gardens offer a stunning mix of formal and informal areas, including water features, rose walks, and Japanese-inspired landscapes. Visitors are treated to a tapestry of colors throughout the seasons.
Notable features include the 300-year-old wisteria arch, which blooms spectacularly in spring, and the beautiful lakeside plantings. Additionally, the gardens provide a tranquil retreat with plenty of seating areas, perfect for enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. Famous for being one of the best rose gardens in the Midlands, Whitlenge Gardens are a must-visit for garden enthusiasts.
Address: Whitlenge Ln, Hartlebury, Kidderminster DY11 7TD
Opening times: Daily, 10am to 5pm
Aston Hall and Gardens
Aston Hall and Gardens, located within Aston, Birmingham, is a magnificent Jacobean mansion surrounded by picturesque 50-acre gardens. The gardens offer plenty of open space for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply soaking up the beautiful surroundings. Visitors can explore the formal gardens, woodlands, and even stumble upon hidden follies.
Notably, Aston Hall and Gardens have been linked to Sir Thomas Holte, who was prominent during the English Civil War. The gardens provide a captivating glimpse into history, as visitors can sense the grandeur and opulence that once existed at this celebrated country house.
Address: Trinity Rd, Aston, Birmingham B6 6JD
Opening times: Gardens only - Daily, 10am to 5pm
Sheldon Country Park
Sheldon Country Park, also known as Old Rectory Farm, is a designated Local Nature Reserve located in Birmingham. The park boasts 300 acres of green space, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful oasis in the midst of urban life. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of wildflower meadows, woodlands, and serene lakes.
Notable features include the visitor center, where you can learn more about the park's history and wildlife, and the working farm which offers an insight into traditional farming practices. Sheldon Country Park is a haven for wildlife, including bird species and butterflies, and is ideal for nature walks and family outings.
Address: Ragley Dr, Sheldon, Birmingham B26 3TU
Opening times: Daily, 8am to 8pm
Himley Hall and Park
Himley Hall and Park, located near Dudley in Staffordshire, is a historic Georgian mansion surrounded by 180 acres of stunning parkland. The park offers picturesque walks, formal gardens, and a large lake, providing a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Notable features of Himley Hall and Park include the dramatic statues, well-maintained gardens with vibrant flower displays, and the beautiful rose garden. With its rich history dating back to the 18th century, this grand estate was once the home of the Earls of Dudley.
Address: Himley, Dudley, Staffordshire DY3 4DF
Opening times: Grounds only - Daily, 7:30am to dusk
Shugborough Estate
The Shugborough Estate, situated near Stafford, is a magnificent country estate boasting stunning formal gardens, parkland, and ancient woodlands. The estate offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, architectural marvels, and intriguing history. Visitors can explore the Georgian mansion, discover hidden follies, and enjoy picturesque walks along the River Sow.
The estate has a significant connection to the influential Anson family, particularly Admiral George Anson, known for his circumnavigation of the globe. Notable features of Shugborough Estate include the impressive walled garden, an orangery, and beautifully sculpted landscape features. It's a place where visitors can uncover stories from the past while immersing themselves in the splendor of the gardens.
Address: Milford, Stafford ST17 0XB
Opening times: Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
Situated in Solihull, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens is a hidden gem that transports visitors back to the 18th century. These delightful gardens, located within a restored walled garden, feature ornamental borders, picturesque walkways, and tranquil water features.
Notably, the gardens boast stunning arrays of heritage plants, some of which date back centuries. The gardens are associated with Queen Mary II, who owned the Castle Bromwich Hall Estate in the late 1600s. Today, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty and charm of a bygone era.
Address: Castle Bromwich, Solihull B36 9BT
Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm