Glorious Gardens

Shakespeare Country and the neighbouring Cotswolds are home to some of England's most enchanting gardens from almost every period of English garden history. From landscaped to cottage, exotic to herbal, our gardens are a delight to explore.

For more than 400 years, the magnificent Elizabethan Garden at Kenilworth Castle has been lost to the world but is has now re-opened to the public after being re-created and visitors are able to experience the sights, sounds and scents that would have greeted Queen Elizabeth I when she first walked its paths

The Elizabethan knot garden at New Place in Stratford is a fine example of early garden styles, while the sweeping parklands at Ragley, Charlecote Park, Warwick Castle and Blenheim Palace are some of 'Capability' Brown's great designs. Other historic garden gems include the internationally renowned hedged 'rooms' of Hidcote Manor and the gardens of Coughton Court, both examples of garden rooms set within their own particular plant themes.

The towns of Shakespeare Country have a wealth of parks and gardens. The gardens of the Shakespeare Houses in and around Stratford-upon-Avon are a sensual delight. Jephson Gardens in Royal Leamington Spa was voted the best park in Britain by the Royal Horticultural Society in 2004 and has now gained a Green Flag Award, the national standard for parks. The historic gardens of Warwick are a delight and include a number of small, individual cottage and 'undiscovered' secret gardens including the Master's Garden at the Lord Leycester Hospital and the recently restored Hill Close Gardens.

Explore 32 acres of stunning gardens and the national collection of asters at Upton House. Further south and into the Cotswolds, don't miss strolling around the rose terrace, herbaceous borders and fantasy fruit garden at Mill Dene Garden.

Whether you're a keen gardener, or simply enjoy fine views, a good cup of tea and a gentle stroll, there's plenty for everyone in the gardens of Shakespeare Country and the neighbouring Cotswolds.