Autumn Magic at Barnsdale Gardens
Autumn Magic at Barnsdale Gardens: Just because the days are getting shorter doesn’t mean garden adventures are coming to an end! In fact, autumn is one of the most dazzling times to visit Barnsdale Gardens, where 38 individually designed gardens burst into a kaleidoscope of amber, gold, and fiery reds.
Owner Nick Hamilton shares his must-see highlights and insider tips below for making the most of an autumn stroll through this East Midlands treasure. From borders brimming with Japanese Anemones and Sedum, to the sweet toffee scent of turning Cercidiphyllum leaves, the season is alive with colour, texture, and even surprise scents!

Autumn Magic at Barnsdale Gardens
Autumn Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss:
- The Winter Border – A stunning tribute garden that’s positively glowing this season, with vibrant foliage and jewel-like berries.
- Country Paradise Garden – Woodland glades, wildflower charm, and that magical toffee aroma in the air.
- Versailles Vista – Where bold Asters, Dahlias, and Rudbeckias meet a backdrop fit for royalty.
- The Rose Garden – Still brimming with blooms (over 50 varieties!) plus a riot of late-season Asters and Anemones.
Creative Encounters in September:
- Dahlia Festival (until 21st Sept, 11–4pm): Feast your eyes on Dahlias in all their autumn glory. Love Dahlias? We’ve got you covered! Join us for special Dahlia-themed courses this month, including Botanical Painting.
- Rutland Open Studios: Meet talented artists like botanical painter Dawn Wright (showcasing her new Barnsdale Dahlia Collection) and artisan felter Eve Marshall, who brings wildlife and texture to life in wool.
October Treats:
- Autumn Breakfast & Guided Walk (8th Oct, 9:30–12:30): Start your day with a hearty Barnsdale Full English before Nick Hamilton leads you on a guided tour through the most colourful corners of the gardens. To book go to: https://shop.barnsdalegardens.co.uk/products/autumn-at-barnsdale-breakfast-and-guided-walk
- Nursery Walk & Talk (31st Oct, 11:30am): Discover which plants will keep your garden borders lively through the chilliest months.
At Barnsdale, autumn isn’t the end of the season; it’s a celebration of everything nature has to offer before winter arrives. So wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and come explore a garden wonderland that’s bursting with colour, character, and creativity.
There’s always something to see, do, and discover at Barnsdale Gardens!
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