Gardens To Visit In Norfolk
Discover Beautiful Gardens to Visit in Norfolk
Norfolk is a haven for garden lovers, boasting a wide range of beautifully maintained gardens, each offering something unique for visitors. Whether you're drawn to stately home grounds, charming walled gardens, or tranquil water features, Norfolk has something to inspire and delight. Here’s a guide to some of the best gardens to visit during your stay at Blakeney Cottage.
1. Sandringham Gardens
Location: Sandringham
The private retreat of the Royal Family, Sandringham Gardens, is an exquisite example of traditional British landscaping. With 60 acres of stunning formal gardens, woodland walks, and ornamental lakes, Sandringham is ideal for a serene day out. Visit during spring to enjoy magnificent rhododendrons or in summer to see the manicured lawns in full bloom.
Highlights: The woodland paths, seasonal floral displays, and the charming St Mary Magdalene Church.
2. Holkham Hall and Walled Garden
Location: Near Wells-next-the-Sea
The grounds of Holkham Hall are a treasure trove for garden enthusiasts. The expansive parkland features deer, while the historic Walled Garden showcases rare and exotic plants, restored greenhouses, and seasonal blooms.
Highlights: The huge recently restored Victorian Walled Garden and the stunning views of the lake and parkland.
3. Houghton Hall Gardens
Location: King’s Lynn
Houghton Hall is famed not only for its stately home but also for its award-winning gardens. The five-acre Walled Garden is a spectacular sight, with a perfect blend of formal and modern landscaping. You'll find fragrant rose gardens, a Mediterranean-inspired parterre, and vibrant herbaceous borders.
Highlights: The stunning sculpture trail, kitchen garden, great restaurant / cafe and seasonal flowers. Very peaceful.
4. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden
Location: South Walsham
Fairhaven offers a magical woodland experience, with over 130 acres of natural beauty. Explore the winding paths through ancient woodland, spot wildlife, and enjoy views over the Broads from the water gardens. A visit in spring reveals carpets of daffodils, bluebells, and primroses.
Highlights: The water garden, accessible boat trips, and tea room. well beahved dogs on leads welcome. Check website to be sure.
5. Blickling Estate Gardens
Location: Aylsham
Managed by the National Trust, Blickling Estate boasts an immaculate garden surrounding a Jacobean mansion. From the topiary-lined parterre to the tranquil lake and secretive Orangery, this garden offers variety and charm for all seasons. While the estate and parkland is dog friendly, unfortunately the formal gardens are not.
Highlights: The long border, formal parterre, and picturesque lake walks and national Trust cafe for lunches and cakes etc.
6. East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
Location: Near Stalham
This privately owned garden is a plant lover's paradise. The East Ruston Old Vicarage features themed garden rooms, lush exotic planting, and breathtaking views over the Norfolk countryside. A hidden gem of a garden not to be missed!
Highlights: The Mediterranean garden, desert-inspired planting, long views to the lighthouse, giant Hostas in pots, and quirky sculptures and tea room. Dogs not allowed in garden as the owner's small dogs and cats are often loose in the gardens. Truly an inspiring garden.
7. Sheringham Park
Location: Sheringham
Designed by the famous landscape gardener Humphry Repton, Sheringham Park is a masterpiece of natural beauty. Known for its rhododendrons and azaleas, the park also offers panoramic coastal views and delightful walks.
Highlights: The coastal views, vibrant azaleas, and the historic park design.
8. Felbrigg Hall Walled Garden
Location: Felbrigg village
The Walled Garden at Felbrigg Hall is a true horticultural gem, showcasing a mix of ornamental plants, productive vegetable plots, and heritage fruit trees. Managed by the National Trust, this beautifully maintained space offers a glimpse into traditional gardening techniques and historical plant varieties. Visitors can wander among the vibrant herbaceous borders, marvel at the intricate glasshouses, and explore the working potager. The garden changes with the seasons, making it a delight to visit any time of year.
Highlights:
- Heritage Fruit Trees: Rare and historic varieties of apples, pears, and more.
- Ornamental Borders: Beautifully designed with vibrant seasonal flowers.
- Victorian Glasshouses: Showcasing exotic plants and traditional horticulture.
- Kitchen Garden: A productive potager with vegetables and herbs used on-site.
- Seasonal Interest: Ever-changing displays from spring blooms to autumn harvests.
9. Natural Surroundings Wildlife Gardens
Location:in the grounds of Bayfield Hall on the road between Holt and Blakeney
Nestled near Holt, the wildlife gardens at Natural Surroundings provide a haven for nature lovers. These informal gardens are designed with sustainability and biodiversity in mind, offering wildflower meadows, ponds, and woodland habitats teeming with local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks while spotting butterflies, dragonflies, and a variety of bird species. The on-site café serves refreshments, and the nursery offers a selection of native plants to take home, perfect for creating your own wildlife-friendly garden.
Highlights:
- Wildflower Meadows: Full of native blooms that attract butterflies and bees.
- Ponds and Wetlands: Perfect for spotting dragonflies and waterfowl.
- Woodland Walks: Peaceful trails through wildlife-rich habitats.
- Bird Watching: Opportunities to see native and visiting species.
- Café and Plant Nursery: Enjoy refreshments and buy native plants to encourage wildlife at home.
- Dog friendly-well behaved dogs on leads welcome
Plan Your Visit
Many of these gardens are located within easy driving distance of Blakeney Cottage. Be sure to check individual websites for opening times, ticket prices, and any seasonal events. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, relaxation, or a bit of both, these gardens provide the perfect escape during your Norfolk holiday.
For more tips on exploring Norfolk, including nearby walks, dining options, and family activities, explore our local guide section in the website titled Explore More