Britain In Bloom: Where To See Glorious Gardens In Summer

The warm sunny spring followed by a brief wet spell in early June means that British gardens are blooming brighter and bigger than ever. It’s an ideal time to explore some of the great historical estates and hidden gems that are welcoming visitors across the south east of England. 

If you are planning a group day out to enjoy one of these delightful summer gardens, coach rental is a convenient way to travel. It takes the stress out of coordinating cars or public transport, and you can sit back and enjoy the picturesque journey. If you’ve got a group of seniors or little ones, it makes the whole experience smoother and safer. 

Here’s a look at some of the most beautiful country gardens within easy reach of London and the surrounding towns to visit this summer. 

Anglesey Abbey Gardens, Cambridgeshire

The National Trust property Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and Lode Mill near Cambridge is a Jacobean house with an all-season garden and a watermill. The summer highlights include the rose garden, which is in bloom from early June October, with a stunning display of over 60 varieties of rose. 

There’s also a delightful dahlia border, a heavenly herbaceous border, and a magical skylight garden that is located at the north end of the East Lawn. This special place is an inner circle created by 12 oak structures, surrounded by hazel bushes, silver leafed lime blocks, ornamental grasses and flower beds. 

Further afield, you will find the wonders of the wildflower meadows, which stretch for 25 acres to the west of the Abbey, and contain over 50 species of wildflowers. These are important conservation areas, attracting pollinators and small birds throughout the summer. The estate also contains a fine collection of garden statues. 

Mottisfont, Hampshire

Mottisfont, near Romsey in Hampshire, is an 18th century house built on the site of a former Medieval priory with beautiful riverside gardens. There’s a world famous walled rose garden that flowers exclusively in June with late weekend opening hours, and cool woodland paths that lead on to meandering riverside walks. 

The house itself is full of artefacts and historical interest, and there’s family-friendly activities planned throughout the summer. and Beyond the gardens, it is possible to access the estate and countryside beyond, including the Curbridge Nature Reserve and the marshes and downlands of Stockbridge. 

Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex

Sheffield Park and Garden is a Grade I listed garden that was influenced by the great Capability Brown. Four lakes lie in the heart of the garden, and in summer they come alive with dazzling water lily blooms. This year on 14 June, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the view from a new floating pontoon. 

The lakes feature seven varieties of waterlily in different colours, from sunshine yellow to magenta. They attract butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies, and have inspired a water lily art workshop in the grounds. There is a network of woodland pathways to explore around the park, featuring natural art sculptures and diverse wildlife. 

Throughout the summer, the Gardens are hosting a series of special events in the evenings, where you can listen to live music beside the waters. 

Hinton Ampner, Hampshire

Hinton Ampner is a hidden gem near Winchester, featuring a sunken garden with a charming lily pond and a traditional walled garden full of rambling roses and meandering trails of sweet peas. There’s also a cut flower garden that buzzes with bees and flutters with butterflies all summer long.

From the south lawn, you’ll have outstanding views of the South Downs. Throughout June, the garden is hosting a Celebration of Flowers, with daily garden tours, Q&As with experts, and live music and outdoor theatre.