The best gardens to visit in Wiltshire
Wiltshire is full of must-visit gardens
In this article:
Stourhead
Stourhead, located in the picturesque village of Stourton, is a must-visit garden in Wiltshire. This stunning landscape garden, owned by the National Trust, offers visitors a glimpse into the beauty of nature. With its 18th-century Palladian mansion as the centerpiece, Stourhead boasts breathtaking vistas, tranquil lakes, and a delightful array of rare trees and plants.
One of the notable features of Stourhead is the iconic Temple of Apollo, which overlooks the lake and offers stunning views. The garden is also famous for its enchanting grotto, classical bridges, and hidden follies. It is no wonder that this garden has been the inspiration for many artists and writers throughout history.
Address: Stourton, Warminster BA12 6QF
Opening Times: The garden is open daily from 10am to 5pm.
Bowood House and Gardens
Bowood House and Gardens, situated near Calne, is a magnificent estate with well-manicured gardens that will leave you in awe. Spanning over 100 acres, this Georgian garden offers a delightful blend of formal and informal areas for visitors to explore.
The garden at Bowood House is famous for its stunning Rhododendron Dells, featuring vibrant displays of colors during springtime. Another noteworthy feature is the Cascade, an impressive artificial waterfall that cascades down a series of terraces. Additionally, Bowood House itself is a grand stately home which has been in the historic Lansdowne family for over 250 years.
Address: Derry Hill, Calne SN11 0LZ
Opening Times: The garden is open from late March to early November, from 11am to 6pm.
Abbey Gardens, Malmesbury
Abbey Gardens, located in the charming town of Malmesbury, offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of the historic Malmesbury Abbey, this garden is filled with carefully manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and fragrant rose gardens.
The main feature of Abbey Gardens is the stunning 12th-century Abbey itself, a sight not to be missed. The garden also offers picturesque views of the River Avon and the enchanting Abbey House Gardens located nearby. With its beautiful floral displays and fascinating historical surroundings, Abbey Gardens is a true oasis in the heart of Malmesbury.
Address: Holloway Hill, Malmesbury SN16 0AH
Opening Times: The garden is open daily from 8am to 5pm.
Iford Manor Gardens
Iford Manor Gardens, nestled in the tranquil Frome Valley, is a hidden gem that offers a unique fusion of Italian style and English charm. This romantic garden, designed by renowned architect Harold Peto, transports visitors to a different era with its terraces, statues, and stunning views of the River Frome.
A notable feature of Iford Manor Gardens is the iconic Peto Garden, which showcases a variety of plants and flowers, including roses, wisterias, and clematis. The Grade I listed Italianate cloisters and the tranquil Casita Garden are also must-sees for any garden enthusiast.
Address: Iford, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2BA
Opening Times: The garden is open from April to October, on designated days and times. It is recommended to check their website for specific opening times.
Heale House Gardens
Heale House Gardens, located near Salisbury, offers a serene escape within its enchanting grounds. Set against the backdrop of the 17th-century manor house, these gardens boast beautiful herbaceous borders, a traditional kitchen garden, and a stunning riverside meadow.
One of the highlights of Heale House Gardens is the two-acre walled garden, which features a remarkable collection of roses, peonies, and other flowering plants. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Avon and explore the woodland walk, rich with wildlife and nature.
Address: Middle Woodford, Salisbury SP4 6NT
Opening Times: The garden is open from April to September, on designated days and times. It is recommended to check their website for specific opening times.
Lacock Abbey Gardens
Lacock Abbey Gardens, situated in the picturesque village of Lacock, offers a stunning combination of medieval architecture and beautiful green spaces. The tranquil Cloister Garden, surrounded by the abbey's arched walkways, is particularly enchanting.
In addition to the historical charm, Lacock Abbey Gardens also showcase a range of seasonal flowers and plants, making it a delight for nature enthusiasts. The gardens are a popular spot for photography and have even been featured in several films and TV shows, including the Harry Potter series.
Address: High Street, Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LG
Opening Times: The garden is open daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm.
Easton Garden
Easton Garden, located in the quaint village of Easton Royal, offers visitors a blend of a traditional English country garden and modern horticultural design. This privately-owned garden provides a peaceful escape with its serene surroundings and beautiful flower borders.
Notable features of Easton Garden include the charming walled garden, manicured topiaries, and picturesque water features. The garden also hosts a delightful tearoom where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments amidst the tranquility of nature.
Address: Easton Royal, Pewsey SN9 5LZ
Opening Times: The garden is open on selected days throughout the year, usually from June to September. Advance booking is required, so it is recommended to visit their website for specific opening times and availability.
The Courts Garden
The Courts Garden, situated in Holt, near Bradford-on-Avon, is a delightful haven of peace and tranquility. This charming garden, owned by the National Trust, offers visitors a captivating mix of formal and informal spaces, showcasing beautiful flower borders and enchanting water features.
The highlight of The Courts Garden is the exquisite herbaceous borders, filled with a wide range of colorful plants that bloom throughout the seasons. Visitors can also explore the sunken garden, the wildflower meadow, and the magnificent Four Seasons Border, which showcases year-round interest.
Address: Holt, Bradford-on-Avon BA14 6RR
Opening Times: The garden is open Wednesday-Sunday from March to October, from 2pm to 6pm.
The Manor House Garden, Great Chalfield
The Manor House Garden, located near Melksham, is a hidden gem that exudes charm and history. The historic manor house, owned by the National Trust, is framed by stunning gardens that transport visitors back to a bygone era.
Notable features of The Manor House Garden include the vibrant herbaceous borders, the tranquil pond area, and the picturesque vegetable garden. The garden's symmetry and careful plant selection create a visually stunning landscape that is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Address: Great Chalfield, Melksham SN12 8NH
Opening Times: The garden is open from April to September, on selected days and times. It is recommended to check their website for specific opening times.
The Walled Garden at Mells
The Walled Garden at Mells, situated in the village of Mells, is a charming and secluded garden that offers a tranquil retreat from everyday life. This hidden gem features an array of enchanting flower beds, mature trees, and a thriving kitchen garden.
A notable feature of The Walled Garden is the beautiful rose garden, filled with a variety of fragrant and colorful blooms during the summer months. The garden also hosts regular events, such as plant fairs and workshops, making it a haven for garden enthusiasts.
Address: Mells, Frome BA11 3PN
Opening Times: The garden is open on specific days during the summer months. It is recommended to check their website for opening times and event schedules.
Please note that while these gardens offer exceptional beauty, there are numerous other delightful gardens in Wiltshire to explore as well. Whether you are seeking serene landscapes, historical sites, or horticultural wonders, Wiltshire has something to offer every garden lover.