The best gardens to visit in Nottinghamshire
Historic gardens that offer a perfect blend of history and natural beauty
In this article:
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park, located in Nottingham, is a historic garden that offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. The centerpiece of the park is the magnificent Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion set atop a hill overlooking a vast deer park. The gardens surrounding the hall feature beautifully manicured lawns, ornamental flower beds, and a serene lake.
Aside from its natural charm, Wollaton Hall and Deer Park is famous for being featured as Wayne Manor in the Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises." Visitors can explore the hall's grand interior, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the stunning views from its rooftop.
Address: Wollaton, Nottingham, NG8 2AE
Opening Times: Open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Newark Castle Gardens
Nestled alongside the River Trent in Newark, Nottinghamshire, the Newark Castle Gardens are a tranquil oasis within the bustling town. These picturesque gardens offer charming paths, vibrant flower beds, and scenic vistas. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank or picnic in the beautifully landscaped gardens while admiring the historic Newark Castle as a stunning backdrop.
Notable features of the Newark Castle Gardens include the romantic rose garden and the ancient Civil War earthworks. The gardens have also been a popular filming location for various period dramas. A visit to this peaceful garden is a fantastic way to take a break from the city and indulge in natural beauty.
Address: Castle Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1BG
Opening Times: Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Bestwood Winding Engine House
The Bestwood Winding Engine House, located in Bestwood Country Park near Nottingham, is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts. This beautifully restored Victorian building once powered a colliery, and now it stands as a historical museum surrounded by stunning gardens offering peaceful walking paths and picnic areas.
The engine house showcases the fascinating history of coal mining in the area, and visitors can see the magnificent winding engine in action during special demonstration days. With its unique blend of industrial heritage and serene green spaces, the Bestwood Winding Engine House offers an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Address: Bestwood Lodge Drive, Arnold, Nottingham, NG5 8NE
Opening Times: Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm
Felley Priory Gardens
Felley Priory Gardens, located in Underwood, Nottinghamshire, are renowned for their serene beauty and rich horticultural heritage. The gardens surround a historic priory and boast an extensive collection of rare and unusual plants, including stunning herbaceous borders, vibrant rhododendrons, and tranquil water features.
Notable features of Felley Priory Gardens include a charming courtyard garden, a soothing woodland walk, and a walled garden that bursts with color throughout the year. This hidden treasure provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can explore its distinctive plant collections and gaze upon its beautiful vistas.
Address: Felley Priory, Underwood, Nottingham, NG16 5FJ
Opening Times: Open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and certain Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Hodsock Priory
Hodsock Priory, located in Blyth, Nottinghamshire, is a historic house surrounded by stunning gardens that burst into life with vibrant blooms during springtime. The snowdrop and bluebell displays at Hodsock Priory are legendary, attracting visitors from near and far.
In addition to its seasonal highlights, Hodsock Priory offers enchanting woodland walks, manicured lawns, and peaceful garden terraces. The charming Tudor-style house and its grounds make this a perfect destination for those seeking natural beauty and historical charm.
Address: Blyth, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S81 0TY
Opening Times: Open seasonally, please check their website for specific opening days and times
Thoresby Park Rose Garden
Situated within the beautiful Thoresby Park, near Ollerton, Nottinghamshire, the Thoresby Park Rose Garden is a paradise for flower lovers. This enchanting garden features an exquisite display of over 200 roses, with vibrant colors and delightful fragrances filling the air.
Aside from its stunning rose collection, the garden offers charming pathways, elegant water features, and peaceful seating areas. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, enjoy a leisurely stroll, and relax in the tranquil surroundings of Thoresby Park.
Address: Thoresby Park, Nr. Ollerton, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9EP
Opening Times: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Hardwick Hall
Located in Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire (close to the Nottinghamshire border), Hardwick Hall is a magnificent Elizabethan mansion surrounded by breathtaking gardens. These gardens, designed by Bess of Hardwick herself, offer a stunning combination of formal and informal landscapes.
The garden's notable features include herbaceous borders, a beautiful orchard, a serene lake, and a charming secret garden. Visitors can explore the grand hall, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and immerse themselves in the remarkable history of this iconic estate.
Address: Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ
Opening Times: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Southwell Minster's Workhouse Garden
The Southwell Minster's Workhouse Garden, located within the Workhouse Museum in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, offers a fascinating insight into Victorian horticulture. This recreated Victorian garden showcases the plants and techniques used during the era, allowing visitors to step back in time.
The garden features traditional flower beds, fragrant herbs, and an orchard. Visitors can also explore the restored workhouse building and gain a deeper understanding of the lives of Victorian paupers. The Workhouse Garden provides a unique experience that merges history and horticulture.
Address: Upton Road, Southwell, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0PT
Opening Times: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Rufford Abbey Country Park
Rufford Abbey Country Park, located in Ollerton, Nottinghamshire, is a historic estate surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodlands. The park offers a mix of formal gardens, wildflower meadows, and scenic lakes, making it an idyllic destination for relaxation and leisurely walks.
Notable features of Rufford Abbey Country Park include a majestic abbey ruin, a peaceful Japanese garden, and a charming Victorian kitchen garden. The park also hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including outdoor theater performances and craft fairs.
Address: Ollerton, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9DF
Opening Times: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm