As we celebrate valentines day, Pro Landscaper highlight the top seven most romantic gardens across the UK.
- Stourhead Garden, Wiltshire
The 1,072ha estate is located at the source of the river Stour in the southwest of the English countryside. First opened in the 1740s, Stourhead has been described as ‘a living work of art’, and with its world-famous landscapes, complete with temples, grottoes, and a lake at its centrepiece, it’s really no surprise as to why.
- Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent
Transformed by poet Vita Sackville-West in 1930, Sissinghurst Castle is surrounded by an abundance of colour, reflecting the romance and intimacy of her writing. Home to some fascinating people throughout history, it is among some of the most famous gardens in the UK. Part of the grade one list on Historic England’s register, its eye-catching designs and panoramic views make this location one to remember.
- Kensington Gardens, London
One of eight Royal parks in London, Kensington Gardens was ‘dreamed up’ by Queen Caroline in the 18th century. Follow in the footsteps of writers, artists and performers – this garden has been used by them all. Take inspiration from its blossoming floral walks, memorials, and Italian inspired planting; you may even recognise its features from several romantic movies in the last two decades. Any guesses?
Occupying 28 acres across the south of Belfast, the Botanic Gardens can be found within the Queen’s quarter of this iconic city. An important part of the country’s Victorian heritage, it was established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society. Home to some of the oldest seed plants in the world, these gardens incorporate a variety of tropical plants, exotic trees, and birds of paradise to create a glasshouse of curiosities.
A national treasure, Bodnant Gardens can be found overlooking the Conwy valley and in the shadows of the Carneddau mountains. Its intimate corners, sweeping lawns and grand terraces are a sight to behold. With its plants originally flown from across the country to be settled in its soil, this garden has been well maintained for over 150 years since. Explore the year-round colour and the tranquillity of this hidden haven.
- Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell
Nestled in the Cornish countryside and typical of the 19th century style, the Lost Gardens of Heligan incapsulates areas of different character and design. Since these gardens were lost to WW1, overgrown and in need of some TLC, the Lost Gardens of Heligan were re-awakened in 1990. Now, with over 70 veteran camellias and 350 ancient rhododendrons included in the collection, these gardens hold a lifetime of stories and hidden secrets. The love restored in its revival is reason enough to explore its grounds.
- Culzean Castle, South Ayrshire
Overlooking the Firth of Clyde, and once the playground of creativity for Earl of Cassillis David Kennedy, this garden is carefully sculpted around miles of sand beaches and coastline. With Kennedy keen to impress with his wealth, these gardens are nothing if not flamboyant, with swan ponds, an icehouse, and fruit-filled glasshouses, step into Kennedy’s shoes and float throughout its formal planting.