From sprawling botanical gardens to historic estates, the UK is home to stunning gardens perfect for springThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Wisley has over 25,000 species of plants(Image: stockcam via Getty Images)
A list of the best British gardens to visit as spring sees flowers bloom has named one Surrey garden as a perfect spot. RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey occupies the fourth position with 622 spring-related reviews. RHS Garden Wisley in Woking, Surrey, boasts a 4.7-star rating alongside 18,912 reviews.
Founded in the 19th century, the garden covers 240 acres and showcases more than 25,000 plant species throughout themed sections, including the Exotic Garden, Wildlife Garden, and Rock Garden.
One Tripadvisor reviewer said: “Fantastic day out! The gardens are absolutely fantastic! The gardens are huge and very popular. In the trees, and every now and again, the laughter of children on a school trip! We had the most amazing day! The gardens are stunning and cared for by a group of volunteers that are so helpful.”
Bodnant Garden in Tal-y-Cafn, in Conwy is in joint fourth place. The garden extends across 80 acres of gardens and woodland with dramatic mountain vistas.
Bodnant Hall is peppered with vibrant pink roses come Spring(Image: Getty)
It maintains a 4.8-star rating from 9,590 reviews and features two wildflower meadows, plus distinctive areas including the Round Garden, which showcases an 18th-century water fountain, and the Winter Garden.
A London garden was crowned the best spring destination for soaking up the season’s first sunshine, boasting more than 50,000 plants and stunning Victorian glasshouses brimming with tropical flora. Royal Botanic Kew Gardens claimed the top position, with Chatsworth House and Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh following as the finest UK gardens to experience during springtime.
Research carried out by CEWE, Europe’s foremost photo printing firm, evaluated and ranked gardens throughout the UK using desk research and Google review analysis. Royal Botanic Kew Gardens in London secured first place with 1,835 spring-themed reviews.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, which traces its origins to the 18th century, holds a 4.7-star rating from 52,891 reviews. Spanning 320 acres, the gardens feature 37 acres of woodland and more than 50,000 plants, alongside iconic Victorian glasshouses. Notable attractions include the Garden of Peace and the Bamboo Garden.
Families will find abundant entertainment for children, including a life-size interactive badger sett allowing youngsters to discover underground passages. A purpose-built children’s garden offers hours of engagement through slides, soft play areas and informative displays.
Chatsworth House in Bakewell claims second place with 694 spring-related reviews. Boasting a 4.7-star rating and 24,270 reviews, the estate was originally constructed in the 16th century. Its grounds encompass 105 acres of gardens, including the Rose Garden and Cottage Garden, alongside impressive water features such as The Emperor Fountain and The Willow Tree Fountain. The property has also served as a filming location for numerous television programmes and films, including Peaky Blinders and Pride & Prejudice.
Chatsworth house is surrounded by beautiful rolling fields(Image: Getty)
The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh secures third place with 656 spring-related reviews. Situated in the heart of Scotland’s capital, it holds a 4.7-star rating and 24,252 reviews. Established in the 17th century, it stands as one of Britain’s oldest botanical gardens and houses 13,500 plant species from 157 countries. Covering 70 acres, key attractions include the Rock Garden, the Woodland Garden, and sweeping panoramic views across the city skyline.
Rounding out the top five is Stourhead in Wiltshire, which has garnered 459 spring-related reviews. This 18th-century estate encompasses 2,650 acres of countryside and woodland, holds a 4.8-star rating with 11,929 reviews, and includes attractions such as Classical Temples, The Grotto, and the Palladian Bridge.
Additional notable entries completing the top 20 include The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, Princes Street Gardens in Scotland, and Powis Castle and Garden in Wales.
From flourishing meadows to flowering woodlands, these gardens present an ideal opportunity to discover and photograph spring scenery.
Chris Wood, Managing Director of CEWE UK, commented: “As mornings continue to get brighter and days lengthen, these beautiful spaces provide the perfect opportunity to head outside and explore the UK’s breathtaking greenery.
“Whether it’s a stroll along flower-filled paths or a wander through colourful spring gardens, there’s plenty to explore up and down the country. These breathtaking settings also provide the ideal backdrop for photographing your adventures and keeping lasting mementos. We hope our research highlights both well-known gardens and hidden gem spots for all the family to enjoy.”
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