I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on
high o’er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils.
William Wordsworth's poem "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" is a beautiful and poignant work that uses the image of daffodils to represent happiness. The British have always been known for their love of gardens and flowers, which is at par with their love for horses, high tea, and dogs. Their passion for cultivating and displaying exotic plants, reached its peak during the latter half of the 19th century. Today, the UK boasts some of the most stunning and breathtaking gardens in the world, each with its own unique character and charm. From the lush greenery of Kew Gardens to the colourful blooms of the RHS Wisley Garden, these gardens are a feast for the senses and a testament to the beauty of nature. So, if you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with the natural world, look no further than this list of gorgeous gardens on your next visit to the UK.
Experience the beauty of RHS Garden Wisley, the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society and one of the world's most beautiful gardens. At this haven of peace and tranquility, you can learn about a vast array of plant collections, attend workshops and events, take a stroll and immerse yourself in a sensory feast, enjoy the hilltop views across Essex, or simply unwind in stunning surroundings. In March, the garden is a riot of colours with early flowering cherries and magnolia in full bloom. Read more about it here.
Address: Wisley Ln, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB, United Kingdom
One of Wales' most renowned gardens, it has over 100 years of history, and boasts some of the most stunning daffodils you'll ever see. Witness the daffodil season from February to April, and be amazed by the sight of bluebells and magnolia trees, which mark the arrival of spring. Read more about it here.
Address: Bodnant Rd, Tal-y-cafn, Colwyn Bay LL28 5RE, United Kingdom
One of the most famous gardens in the UK is Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site that spans over 300 acres and features over 50,000 plants. Here, visitors can wander through the Palm House, a towering Victorian glasshouse filled with tropical plants, or explore the Princess of Wales Conservatory, which showcases 10 different climate zones. This UNESCO World Heritage site hosts over 50,000 living plants in its vast area. Kew includes several conservatories and cafes where you can take a break and warm up. To fully experience everything Kew has to offer, spending at least a day here is recommended. The Grade 1 listed Temperate House showcases the splendour of the world’s temperate flora and is home to 1,200 species from Asia, Australasia, the Americas, and Africa. Kew’s Kitchen Garden grows edible plants like common fruit and veg varieties, from carrots and apples to pumpkins and chilli peppers. Read more about it here.
Address: Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE
The Beth Chatto Gardens were established in 1960 by Beth Chatto OBE, who was an award-winning plantswoman, author, and lecturer. She transformed an overgrown area filled with brambles, parched gravel, and boggy ditches into an inspirational, informal garden using plants that could thrive in different conditions. The garden has evolved to include a gravel garden filled with drought-loving plants that resembles a winding, dried-up river bed. The soggy hollows have been transformed into dramatic water gardens with a gentle descent. Although Chatto passed away in May 2018, her garden continues to thrive and inspire visitors. Read more about it here.
Address: Clacton Rd, Elmstead Market, Elmstead, Colchester CO7 7DB, United Kingdom