The UK's best spring garden has 50,000 plants and iconic Victorian glasshouses
The UK's most talked about spring garden is not just beautiful but is also a step back in time with beautifully preserved greenhouses from the Victorian era.
One UK garden has been named the best spring spot to enjoy the first rays of sun, with over 50,000 plants and elegant Victorian greenhouses filled with tropical plants. The top spot was named as Royal Botanic Kew Gardens, followed by Chatsworth House and Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh as the best UK gardens to visit in spring.
The study, conducted by CEWE, Europe's leading photo printing company, identified and ranked gardens across the UK based on desk research and Google review data. Royal Botanic Kew Gardens in London is in first place with 1,835 spring-related reviews. The UNESCO World Heritage site dates to the 18th century and holds a 4.7 star rating from 52,891 reviews. The gardens span 320 acres, including 37 acres of woodland and over 50,000 plants, and are home to iconic Victorian glasshouses. Key highlights include the Garden of Peace and the Bamboo Garden.
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There is also plenty for kids to do with a real interactive life size badger set so that little ones can explore underground tunnels. A dedicated children's garden will also keep young people occupied for hours with slides, soft play and educational stands.
Chatsworth House in Bakewell ranks second with 694 spring-related reviews. It has a 4.7 star rating and 24,270 reviews. First built in the 16th century, the estate features 105 acres of gardens including the Rose Garden and Cottage Garden, as well as notable water features such as The Emperor Fountain and The Willow Tree Fountain. The estate has also featured in various TV shows and films including Peaky Blinders and Pride & Prejudice
The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh follows in third with 656 spring-related reviews. Located in the heart of the city, it has a 4.7 star rating and 24,252 reviews. Founded in the 17th century, it’s one of the oldest botanical gardens in the UK and is home to 13,500 plant species from 157 countries. Spanning 70 acres, highlights include the Rock Garden, the Woodland Garden along with panoramic views of the city skyline.
Bodnant Garden in Wales and RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey share fourth place with 622 spring-related reviews. Bodnant Garden in Tal-y-Cafn, Conwy spans 80 acres of gardens and woodland with sweeping mountain views. It holds a 4.8 star rating from 9,590 reviews and is also home to two wildflower meadows, and distinct areas including the Round Garden, which features an 18th century water fountain, and the Winter Garden.
RHS Garden Wisley in Woking, Surrey has a 4.7 star rating and 18,912 reviews. Established in the 19th century, it spans 240 acres and features over 25,000 plant species across themed areas including the Exotic Garden, Wildlife Garden and Rock Garden.
Stourhead in Wiltshire completes the top five with 459 spring-related reviews. The 18th century estate is spans 2,650 acres of countryside and woodland. It has a 4.8 star rating and 11,929 reviews and features Classical Temples, The Grotto and the Palladian Bridge.
Other honourable mentions that complete the top 20 are The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, Princes Street Gardens in Scotland and Powis Castle and Garden in Wales.
From blooming meadows to blossoming woodlands, these gardens offer the perfect chance to explore and capture spring landscapes. Chris Wood, Managing Director of CEWE UK, said: “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."
