As spring approaches, many people in the UK are looking forward to enjoying the sunshine and engaging in affordable outdoor activities. If you’re seeking a new and exciting day out beyond the usual park stroll, the National Garden Scheme offers access to over three thousand gardens across the country, catering to both plant enthusiasts and casual visitors.
To plan your perfect outing, visit the National Garden Scheme’s website, where you can explore an interactive map allowing you to filter gardens by postcode and region. In addition to regular garden visits, the scheme hosts special events like guided tours, expert talks, and refreshments for a small fee, contributing to charitable causes supporting healthcare institutions in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Channel Islands.
Highlighted destinations for the upcoming Easter holiday include Lincolnshire’s Woodlands garden with a unique crevice garden, Cheshire’s Poulton Hall featuring themed areas inspired by legends, Staffordshire’s John’s Garden known for intricate design, and Hampshire’s Little Court showcasing a splendid kitchen garden and vibrant butterflies. History buffs can explore the 400-year-old Easton Walled Garden in Lincolnshire or Nettlestead Place’s medieval manor house in Kent.
Families visiting with children can enjoy The Old Vicarage in West Sussex, offering woodland paths, a Japanese garden, and a waterfall, while Derbyshire’s 10 Chestnut Way provides homemade teas and whimsical sculptures. Notable gardens for April include Feeringbury Manor in Essex, Sarsden Glebe in Oxfordshire, Kencot Gardens in Gloucestershire, and Crawley Gardens in Hampshire.
In London, exclusive gardens are opening to the public at discounted rates, such as the London Open Gardens event on June 6 and 7, featuring 100 gardens across the capital. Scotland also has its own garden scheme, providing access to 432 gardens in the northern region.