The Ultimate Garden Destination This English Tourism Week

Founded in 1983 by the renowned Geoff Hamilton, a pioneer of sustainable, peat-free, and chemical-free gardening, Barnsdale Gardens, nestled in Rutland in the East Midlands, continues to flourish under the stewardship of his son, Nick Hamilton. Today, it remains a must-visit destination for gardening enthusiasts who travel from near and far.

Spanning 38 beautifully designed gardens, Barnsdale offers a unique blend of horticultural artistry and tranquility. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity of the Japanese Garden, adorned with delicate cherry blossoms and Zen-inspired planting, or marvel at the structured elegance of the Formal Pool and Knot Garden, seen above, featuring exquisite topiary and stunning water features.

For those passionate about wildlife-friendly garden design, the Stream and Bog Garden provides a perfect example. Originally created for the 1995 series of Gardeners’ World, this garden demonstrates how water features can be seamlessly incorporated into average-sized gardens, attracting diverse pond life and enhancing biodiversity.

These highlights are just a glimpse of the many ornamental treasures awaiting visitors. For a full exploration of all 38 gardens, visit our website: Gardens.

After a relaxing stroll, visitors can indulge in a delightful culinary experience at the Helenium Tea Room, renowned for its delicious Afternoon Teas, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

For those eager to enhance their skills, Barnsdale offers a variety of workshops throughout the year, covering topics such as gardening, painting, and willow weaving. Additionally, the on-site shop and nursery provide the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Barnsdale, with many plant varieties available for purchase.

Join us in celebrating English Tourism Week and experience the beauty and inspiration of Barnsdale Gardens! For more information, course bookings, or to plan your visit, head to Barnsdale Gardens Website.