Gardens in London and around
London and the surrounding counties are home to some fantastic gardens, many with historical links to kings and queens of eras past and present. Beautifully maintained, there are gardens to suit all tastes. So whether its the bold and opulent or the understated and refined, a visit to this region should not be missed.
Buckinghamshire
Stowe Gardens, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire
Your tour starts in Buckinghamshire, north west of London, with a visit to Stowe Landscape Gardens. Here you will come across the idealised 18th century landscape, under continuing restoration, created under a succession of distinguished designers including Vanbrugh, Bridgeman, Kent and 'Capability' Brown. The many temples, columns, arches and bridges evoke the classical world so admired by the Georgians. Wonderful vistas and trees are also prominent.
Berkshire
Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead, Berkshire
Travel south into Berkshire. May we suggest Cliveden gardens, overlooking the river Thames. These formal gardens below the country house hotel have a terrace and magnificent parterre. With colourful borders, a tranquil water garden, 'secret' rose garden, Long Garden with clipped hedges, fountains, temples and miles of woodland walks with beautiful river views.
Surrey
Savill Garden & Valley Gardens, Englefield Green, Surrey
From Cliveden travel south into Surrey. Savill offers superb woodland gardens of year-round interest. The gardens shelter an outstanding collection of rhododendrons, camellias, magnolias and hydrangeas, plus collections of ferns hostas and primulas, herbaceous borders and roses. The Valley Gardens offer massed spring and autumn colour with canopies of exotic shrubs and trees, as well as a lake.
RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey
Wisley, the famous garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, is also within Surrey. Covering 250 glorious acres, Wisley shows British gardening at its best. Every garden type is represented, from mixed borders and roses to a wild garden, rock garden and glasshouses, providing inspiration and practical advice to thousands of visitors.
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Get your Great British Heritage Pass
For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 580 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.
For full details and to order click here.