1) Markshall Estate and Gardens, Essex
Walk through the landscaped arboretum (a botanical garden devoted to trees!) filled with, you guessed it, trees as well as plants from around the world. Wander through winding pathways and soak in nature, discovering rich biodiversity as you transport yourself through the continents of Europe, South America, North America and Asia. Note the beautiful fiery Cornus along the shore – a perfect autumn and winter colour sensation.
2) Kyoto Garden, Holland Park, London
A secret Japanese escape in the middle of the hustle and bustle of London, the always-beautiful Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is brimming with autumn oranges and fiery reds draping over the serene and reflective water. A calm (and £free!) garden to visit and take a moment for yourself.
3) Tatton Park, Knutsford
Arguably one of the most picturesque gardens in the UK, the Egerton family have played a key part in this garden’s evolution, which gives you a taste of the Edwardian era and showcases three hundred years of cultivation. Each area of the gardens provides its own atmosphere, plant and tree varieties. If fruit and vegetable cultivation is your thing too, this is a perfect garden to gather inspiration for a small kitchen garden or greenhouse. The garden also abounds with Japanese garden styling too for those seeking more ornamental inspiration.
4) Cambo Gardens, Fife, Scotland
Cambo’s 2.5 acre walled garden dates from the 1800s and is looked after by a passionate team of horticulturists. During this autumn season their naturalistic plantings and prairie garden are not only beautiful but unique in Scotland.
The garden is constantly changing and providing interest all year round too so, if you don’t make it in autumn it’s well worth a visit in late winter and early spring too to see their Plant Heritage national collection of Snowdrops.
5) Great Dixter, Rye
Autumn is a fantastic time to see these East Sussex gardens in their full glory. The garden is bursting with bold colours, different textures and many layers of planting. The gardens provide a sense of whimsy and, around every corner as you weave your way through, there is always something to surprise and inspire.
For more from Great Dixter, see our top garden design tips inspired by these beautiful gardens check out our blog.
