The best gardens to visit in Northumberland

Alnwick Garden

The Alnwick Garden, located in Alnwick, Northumberland, is a stunning and contemporary garden that offers a truly unique experience. With its beautiful water features, perfectly manicured gardens, and impressive collection of over 4,000 plant species, Alnwick Garden is a must-visit for any garden enthusiast.

Notable features of this garden include the Grand Cascade, a spectacular series of fountains and waterfalls, and the Poison Garden, where you can explore a fascinating collection of deadly plants. The garden also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as guided tours, workshops, and even a Treehouse Restaurant.

Address: Denwick Lane, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1YU
Opening Times: Vary depending on the season, please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Howick Hall Gardens

Howick Hall Gardens, nestled near the coastline in the village of Howick, are known for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The gardens boast a rich history, as they have been owned by the Grey family since the 13th century. Notably, it is the birthplace of Earl Grey, the British Prime Minister who gave his name to the famous tea blend.

This peaceful garden features over 65 acres of diverse landscapes, including woodland walks, formal gardens, and a stunning display of rhododendrons and magnolias during the spring season. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque views of the nearby Howick Beach.

Address: Howick Hall Gardens, Howick, Near Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 3LB
Opening Times: Open daily from 10:30 am to 6 pm (summer season). Please check their website for confirmation of opening times.

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, located near Morpeth, is a historic site that combines a medieval castle, a Greek Revival mansion, and beautiful gardens. The castle ruins are particularly fascinating, offering a glimpse into the region's past, while the Grade I listed mansion is a striking example of architectural excellence.

Spanning 30 acres, the enchanting gardens at Belsay feature terraces, a unique quarry garden, and a stunning collection of shrubs and flowers. The Quarry Garden is particularly impressive as it sits within a former quarry, with towering rock faces covered in vibrant ferns and other plants.

Address: Belsay, Nr Morpeth, Northumberland, NE20 0DX
Opening Times: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (summer season). Please check their website for confirmation of opening times.

Lindisfarne Castle Garden

Situated on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Lindisfarne Castle Garden offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning gardens surrounding a historic Tudor castle. With breathtaking views across the North Sea, this garden combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.

The garden features a variety of plants that are able to withstand the harsh coastal environment, including vibrant flowers, grasses, and shrubs. Visitors can also enjoy the tranquility of the Gertrude Jekyll-designed walled garden, which showcases a delightful mix of colors and fragrances.

Address: Holy Island, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, TD15 2SH
Opening Times: The garden is open all year, but the castle itself has specific opening times. Please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Cragside Gardens

Cragside Gardens, located near Rothbury, are part of the magnificent Cragside Estate, which was once the home of Lord Armstrong, a famous industrialist and inventor. These stunning gardens are known for their extensive collection of rare and exotic plants, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Northumberland countryside.

The garden features a large rock garden, beautiful lakes, and towering trees. The highlight of Cragside Gardens is the stunning rhododendron display during the spring months, which blankets the entire area in vibrant colors.

Address: Rothbury, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 7PX
Opening Times: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (summer season). Please check their website for confirmation of opening times.

Wallington Hall and Gardens

Wallington Hall and Gardens, near Cambo, is a beautiful estate known for its stunning gardens and the historic Wallington Hall. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat with their well-maintained pathways, formal lawns, and beautiful flower beds.

Visitors can explore the Walled Garden, which features a beautiful display of roses and other colorful flowers, and enjoy the tranquility of the woodland walks adorned with bluebells and vibrant rhododendrons. The estate also boasts a scenic lakeside walk, where you can admire the peaceful surroundings.

Address: Cambo, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 4AR
Opening Times: Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm (summer season). Please check their website for confirmation of opening times.

Syon House and Gardens

Syon House and Gardens, located in London, near the boundary of Northumberland, is a grand estate with beautiful gardens that offer visitors a delightful escape from the bustling city. The gardens are part of the historic Syon Park, which has been home to the Duke of Northumberland for over 400 years.

The gardens feature a stunning Great Conservatory, designed by architect Charles Fowler and filled with exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can also explore the tranquil Rose Garden, which boasts a variety of stunning rose species, or take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined Long Walk.

Address: Syon Park, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 8JF
Opening Times: Vary depending on the season, please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Warkworth Castle and Hermitage Gardens

Warkworth Castle and Hermitage Gardens, located in Warkworth, offer a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. The stunning medieval castle is the centerpiece of this attraction, standing proudly on a hill above the charming village of Warkworth.

The castle's breathtaking landscape, complete with picturesque gardens and views of the River Coquet, provides a delightful setting for visitors to explore. Additionally, the castle is surrounded by well-maintained Hermitage Gardens, where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquility.

Address: Castle Terrace, Warkworth, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 0UJ
Opening Times: The gardens are open all year, but the castle itself has specific opening times. Please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Bamburgh Castle Gardens

Bamburgh Castle Gardens, situated near the coastal town of Bamburgh, offer visitors the chance to explore beautiful gardens within the grounds of a magnificent medieval castle. With stunning views of the Northumberland coast, visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The garden features a delightful mix of colorful flowers, well-manicured lawns, and stunning sea views. Visitors can also take a walk along the castle walls, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Address: Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh, Northumberland, NE69 7DF
Opening Times: Vary depending on the season, please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

The Alnwick Garden Treehouse

The Alnwick Garden Treehouse, located within the Alnwick Garden, is a magical and unique attraction that appeals to both children and adults. This extraordinary structure, made primarily from sustainably sourced Canadian cedar, is one of the largest treehouses in the world.

The Treehouse boasts a restaurant serving delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as magical treetop walkways and enchanting gardens. It offers a truly unforgettable experience, surrounded by nature and towering trees.

Address: Denwick Lane, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1YU
Opening Times: Vary depending on the season, please check their website for the most up-to-date information.

With such a wide range of beautiful and diverse gardens to explore, Northumberland offers a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, learn about historic sites, or simply relax in enchanting surroundings, these gardens are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with memories to treasure.