Welcome to Stately Homes

There’s magic and mystery, history and intrigue, romance and peace at this beautiful venue – which provides such an unusual combination of a traditional heritage garden with the excitement, challenge and contemporary landscaping of the ancient woodland – appealing to young and old alike.

The Formal Gardens:

First laid out in 1674 on a gentle, south-facing slope, the formal walled gardens are set against the romantic backdrop of a medieval moat, surrounding a classical Restoration manor house (not open to the public) and were designed as outside rooms.

These award-winning gardens include magnificent herbaceous borders, the enchanting White Rose Garden with over 20 varieties of white roses, a Secret Garden with deep shade and cooling waters in a tiny hidden corner, Paradise Walk and Oriental Garden, the Knot Garden and Nut Walk and the Drunken Garden with its crazy topiary.

The gardens feature wonderful seasonal colour throughout spring, summer and autumn. More information is available on their Website.

The Enchanted Forest:

In complete contrast on a high hillside above the walled gardens and estate vineyard is the Enchanted Forest, where quirky and mysterious gardens have been developed in the ancient woodland by innovative designer, Ivan Hicks, to challenge the imagination.

Children love the Dark Walk, Tree Fern Valley, Village of the Groms, the Serpents’ Lair and the Mystic Pool, the Romany Camp, Double Spiral and the Giant Swings Walk. There are also Birds of Prey flying displays three times a day, a canal boat cruise to and from the Forest – plus a full programme of special events. Licensed restaurant and gift shop.

Opening Times - 2010:

20th & 21st March: Sunday
27th March - 6th November: daily, 10 am - 5.30 pm (or dusk if earlier).

Admission Prices - 2010:

Adult - £8.95
Seniors - £7.45
Child (3-12yrs) - £7.45
Family Ticket (2 + 2) - £29.95

Groups (12+):
Adult - £7.25
Seniors - £5.50/£6.25 (off peak/peak)
Child/School (3-12yrs) - £5.50
Student - £6.25
Youth groups - £5.50

Child under 3yrs Free.

The Canal Boat which takes you on a peaceful cruise to or from the Enchanted Forest costs £1.00 per person.

No dogs permitted with the exception of Guide and Hearing dogs.

Corporate Hospitality/Functions:

The Estate provides all sorts of opportunities for corporate entertaining, team building and family fun days for employees. Tailormade programmes include archery and laser clay contests, garden games or treasure trails; and a choice of catering options.

More information on the garden can be found on The Gardens Guide.