Discovering Britain’s Beautiful Heritage Gardens This Summer

The summer has returned in style after a brief rainy interlude at the start of June, and the most beautiful gardens in Britain are bursting with life and colour. It’s the ideal time to plan a picturesque day out to spend some quality time in nature, enjoy a picnic in a landscaped garden, and walk through wildlife meadows and shady orchards.

For groups of friends, gardening societies, or retirement clubs, or anyone keen for a memorable and enjoyable day out, coach hire is a relaxing and pleasant way to travel. Historic gardens are often in scenic areas, so you will benefit from elevated views from the coach windows, without the stress of navigating narrow country lanes.

Here are some of the finest gardens to explore this summer. Many destinations host special events and family attractions over the summer, such as concerts and fairs, so keep an eye out for these as well. 

Stourhead, Wiltshire

Stourhead in Wiltshire often receives a lot of attention in the autumn for its spectacular variety of leaf colours, but it’s just as glorious in the summer. The famous landscaped gardens are centred around a lake, with woodlands on the surrounding slopes and intriguing classical temples situated around the gardens. 

There’s also easy access to the surrounding 2,650 acre country estate, with walks through chalk downs and ancient woodlands. The garden was designed by Henry Hoare II in the 1740s, and he took inspiration from his Grand Tours of Europe. He introduced many exotic plant species to complement the native trees and flowers.

Throughout the summer, there’s an open air cinema showing a mixture of classic films, musicals, and blockbusters to enjoy with a picnic or glass of wine. There’s also guided walks, talks, workshops and more. 

Chirk Castle, Wrexham

Chirk Castle is just over the border in north east Wales, and it is a delightful summer destination. The castle is elevated on a hilltop, affording visitors sweeping views of the surrounding Cheshire and Shropshire plains. The gardens were revived by Lady Margaret Myddleton in the mid twentieth century, and they are prized for their colourful blooms. 

The roses and foxtail lilies are a particular highlight of the summer season. The five and half acre gardens also feature manicured lawns that are ideal for a picnic, and there’s also a cafe and shop selling gifts, local produce and ice creams. 

Surrounding the gardens is a 480 acre working estate with ancient trees, wildflower meadows and public footpaths that cross part of Offa’s Dyke winding through it. 

Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

Waddesdon Manor is a showy French Renaissance-style chateau with equally eye-catching gardens. The formal gardens are a riot of colour and texture that are carefully tended to look stunning throughout the summer, and there are mature trees and tranquil walks throughout the grounds. 

Over the weekend of 21 and 22 June, the grounds will host Summer Fest, a two day celebration of performance, art, music, food and drink. There will be pop-up events, gift stalls, wine tastings and family friendly activities. 

Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent

Tucked away in the Weald of Kent, Sissinghurst is one of England’s most romantic gardens. Created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson in the 1930s, it’s a series of beautifully planted ‘rooms’, each with its own colour scheme and character. The White Garden is perhaps the most iconic, with soft planting and silver foliage glowing in the summer sun.

There’s also a ‘no dig’ vegetable garden that supplies the house with fresh vegetables, herbs and fruit, and it has been awarded Organic accreditation by the Soil Association. Visit the Plant Shop to take home seasonal vegetables and plants that have been grown in the grounds. 

Throughout the school summer holidays, the castle garden will host a ‘Summer of Play’ with free entry and no booking necessary. It is inspired by fairy tales, and kids can take part in dress up, sword play, and a hobby horse obstacle course.