The best gardens to visit in Worcestershire
Worcester has hidden gems filled with beautiful flowers, rare plants, and charming landscapes
In this article:
Spetchley Park Gardens
The stunning Spetchley Park Gardens, located just outside Worcester, is a hidden gem filled with beautiful flowers, rare plants, and charming landscapes. With over thirty acres of gardens to explore, visitors can immerse themselves in a tranquil and magical atmosphere. The gardens boast a rich history and have been carefully maintained by the Berkeley family since 1605.
Notable features of Spetchley Park Gardens include the Rose Garden, the White Garden, and the stunning Herbaceous Border. There is also a charming deer park and a lake where visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll. The gardens have welcomed notable figures such as Charles Darwin and Edward VIII.
Address: Spetchley, Worcester WR5 1RS
Opening Times: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4.30pm
Hanbury Hall and Gardens
Hanbury Hall and Gardens, near Droitwich Spa, offers a delightful combination of stunning Georgian architecture and majestic gardens. The formal 18th-century gardens are meticulously maintained and showcase the elegance of the era. Visitors can explore various beautifully landscaped areas, including Parterres, the Orangery, and Hanbury's famous Walled Garden.
Famous names associated with Hanbury Hall include Lady Isabella Molyneux, who transformed the gardens in the 19th century, and George London, the renowned English landscape designer who was involved in designing the gardens. The Hall has been featured in several films and TV shows, including "The Duchess."
Address: School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich Spa WR9 7EA
Opening Times: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm
Hagley Hall and Park
Situated near Stourbridge, Hagley Hall and Park is not only a stunning stately home but also boasts breathtaking gardens. The 18th-century landscape design by "Capability" Brown surrounds the Hall and provides an idyllic setting. Visitors can explore the serene parkland and discover features such as the Shell Seat, the Grecian Temple, and the picturesque South Avenue.
Hagley Hall has strong connections with Sir Robert Walpole, the first Prime Minister of Great Britain. Notable figures such as Queen Mary and Prime Minister Winston Churchill have visited the site. The gardens have also been used as filming locations for various period dramas.
Address: Hagley, Stourbridge DY9 9LG
Opening Times: Tuesday-Thursday, 2pm-6pm (May-September)
Croome Park
Croome Park, near Pershore, offers an exceptional blend of landscape design, fascinating history, and art. Designed by Lancelot "Capability" Brown, the parkland combines sweeping views with beautiful lakeside walks. Additionally, the park is home to Croome Court, an elegant Georgian mansion with period rooms and exhibitions.
Notable features of Croome Park include the restored Walled Gardens, the magnificent Rotunda overlooking the lake, and the Chinese Bridge. The gardens have a connection with the influential landscape architect Humphry Repton, who made some alterations to the park. The site has also hosted open-air concerts by renowned musicians such as Elton John.
Address: High Green, Worcester WR8 9DW
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5pm
Witley Court and Gardens
Witley Court and Gardens, near Great Witley, offer visitors a chance to step back in time and witness the faded grandeur of a magnificent Victorian mansion and its surrounding gardens. The gardens provide a perfect backdrop for the ruined mansion, with ornamental fountains, beautiful parterres, and stunning sculptures.
The gardens were once frequented by Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales, and renowned garden designer William Andrews Nesfield contributed to their initial design. Visitors to Witley Court can also enjoy music and light shows that bring the gardens to life in the evening.
Address: Worcester Road, Great Witley WR6 6JT
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5pm
Broadway Tower and Gardens
Perched atop the picturesque Cotswold escarpment, Broadway Tower and its surrounding gardens offer breathtaking panoramic views. Designed by Capability Brown, the gardens seamlessly merge with the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the peaceful gardens and enjoy the diverse wildlife, as well as take scenic walks around the tower.
Broadway Tower has connections to iconic figures such as William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. The gardens have inspired famous artists and writers throughout history. Visitors should not miss the chance to climb the tower to witness the incredible vistas from the top.
Address: Middle Hill, Broadway WR12 7LB
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5pm
Arley Arboretum and Gardens
Arley Arboretum and Gardens, nestled in the Severn Valley, is a haven of rare trees, vibrant flowers, and peaceful paths. The arboretum boasts an impressive collection of over 300 species of trees from around the world. Visitors can wander through the serene gardens, explore the Italianate terraces, and enjoy views of the picturesque River Severn.
Arley Arboretum has connections to various horticultural pioneers, including notable figures such as Sir Isaac Bayley Balfour and Sir Michael Foster. The beautiful gardens and unique plant collection make Arley an ideal destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts.
Address: Upper Arley, Bewdley DY12 1SQ
Opening Times: Daily (April-September), 11am-5pm
Weston Park
Weston Park, located near Shifnal, is a magnificent stately home with exquisitely manicured gardens. Designed by renowned landscape architect Capability Brown, the gardens showcase a combination of formal and informal elements. Visitors can explore the Temple Wood, the stunning Rose Terrace, and the tranquil Italian Garden.
Weston Park has hosted various historical figures, such as Queen Victoria and Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. The gardens have also been used as a backdrop for film and TV productions, including adaptations of Jane Austen's novels. Additionally, the park hosts various events throughout the year.
Address: Weston-under-Lizard, Shifnal TF11 8LE
Opening Times: Daily, 10am-6pm
Little Malvern Court Gardens
Little Malvern Court Gardens, nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, offer visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes. The romantic gardens feature a medieval-style fishpond, an orchard, and a delightful topiary garden. Explore the woodland walk to discover hidden treasures, including a medieval ditch and ramparts.
Famous visitors to Little Malvern Court include Sir Edward Elgar, the renowned composer, who found inspiration in the beautiful surroundings. The gardens have also been praised for their diversity of plants, including an impressive collection of magnolias.
Address: Little Malvern, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 4JN
Opening Times: Daily (April-October), 2pm-5pm (Mondays and Thursdays)
Ombersley Court Gardens
Ombersley Court Gardens, nestled within the stunning Ombersley Park, offers visitors a delightful combination of formal gardens, beautiful borders, and tranquil lakes. The gardens showcase intricate geometric designs and vibrant flower displays. Visitors can admire the tranquil lakeside views or take a leisurely stroll along the woodland walk.
Ombersley Court Gardens have strong associations with the Earls of Coventry, who owned the estate for generations. Notable guests, including members of the British royal family, have enjoyed the gardens. The gardens were also featured in the BBC series "The Country House Revealed."
Address: Ombersley, Droitwich Spa WR9 0DY
Opening Times: Tuesday-Friday, 12pm-5pm