Abbey House Manor Gardens - Image 1
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Abbey House Manor Gardens

4.6
·499 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore five acres of stunning, Grade I listed country gardens in Malmesbury, featuring seasonal blooms, art, and a peaceful river walk.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Tulips in full bloom

CrowdLow
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Abbey House Manor Gardens - Image 1

Abbey House Manor Gardens

Best Time

Spring mornings

Tulips in full bloom

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore five acres of stunning, Grade I listed country gardens in Malmesbury, featuring seasonal blooms, art, and a peaceful river walk.

4.6
(499 reviews)

"A wonderful hidden gem with absolutely beautiful gardens and many little nooks to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Steep Paths to River

The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Manicured Gardens

Manicured Gardens

Throughout the grounds

Stroll through immaculately kept flower beds, trees, and shrub displays, showcasing seasonal blooms.

River Walk

River Walk

Lower garden paths

Descend to the peaceful riverbanks for serene views and excellent photo opportunities.

Reddit
Sculpture Exhibitions

Sculpture Exhibitions

Scattered throughout the gardens

Discover art installations integrated into the landscape, adding an artistic dimension to your visit.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during spring for blooming tulips or summer for vibrant displays. Check for special events like open days or sculpture exhibitions, as these can enhance your experience but may also increase crowds. Instagram+1

Explore Beyond the Topiary

Abbey House Manor Gardens are larger than they appear, with hidden nooks and a path leading down to the river. Don't miss exploring these less-obvious areas for peaceful moments and great photo opportunities. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Tulips in full bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Vibrant floral displays
Crowd
Medium
When
During open days
Why
Special events & music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿Guía de los COTSWOLDS, la Campiña Inglesa👇🏼 La que para muchos es la región más bonita de Inglaterra 🥰. Se pueden encontrar vuelos MUY ECONÓMICOS desde prácticamente cualquier lugar de España 🙏 ✈️En nuestro caso hicimos Santander - Birmingham con Ryanair y los vuelos fueron buscados por Skyscanner: 55 € p/p sin maleta 🚙Una vez allí, alquilamos un coche con la compañía Álamo y siempre los bu...
@prepare2fly
185.6K likes • 2M views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. Reddit :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Steep Paths to River

The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. Reddit+1 :athletic_shoe:

It doesn’t feel real👒🏡🌷 #cotswolds #downtonabbey #fairytale #england #fyp
@luisaaidan
31.6K likes • 225.4K views
THIS Saturday join us at Abbey House Manor Garden open day to see our beautiful gardens and enjoy performances from local musicians. Bring your friends & family, take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and see what our wonderful garden team have been working on behind the scenes. There will be plenty of places for you to relax and we’ll be serving soft and alcoholic drinks that you can purch...
oldbell_hotel
75 likes • 3.3K views

📅 Check for Open Days

Look out for special open days with music and refreshments for an enhanced experience. Instagram+1 :calendar:

🖼️ Art in the Gardens

Enjoy sculptures dotted around the grounds, adding an artistic flair to the natural beauty. Reddit :art:

In case you are in Cotswolds this coming Saturday ! Open house garden on June 22nd at Abbey House Manor Garden for the first of our Summer 2024 Open Days. Bring your friends & family, take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and see what our wonderful garden team have been working on behind the scenes. There will be plenty of places for you to relax and we’ll be serving soft and alcoholic dr...
anya.g.rowe
1.1K likes • 16.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. Reddit :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Steep Paths to River

The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. Reddit+1 :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Open Days

Look out for special open days with music and refreshments for an enhanced experience. Instagram+1 :calendar:

🖼️ Art in the Gardens

Enjoy sculptures dotted around the grounds, adding an artistic flair to the natural beauty. Reddit :art:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(499 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Abbey House Manor Gardens for their exceptional beauty and meticulous upkeep, often calling it a 'hidden gem.' The addition of sculpture exhibitions and the peaceful river walk are frequently highlighted as enjoyable features. While the steep paths to the river and occasional cafe closures are noted, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.

"Beautiful gardens!!!!!! We unfortunately came on a rainy day and were the only people crazy enough to walk around in the rain, but so glad we did. The gardens are so beautiful and kept well. We went during a sculpture exhibition, so sculptures all around site. Would highly recommend this garden, we're hoping to go back when it's sunny."

Alison Williams-Clayson

"What a wonderful hidden gem. The gardens are absolutely beautiful with many little nooks to explore. The addition of a sculpture exhibition throughout the gardens added a lot to the visit. The fact that I could take my dog (on a lead) to walk around was a real plus as many formal gardens won't allow this which is a shame as I love gardens and dogs so this was a fab afternoon out. There is a little cafe but sadly it wasn't open when I visited. I intend to go back. There is a wooded area that again, we didn't manage to wander around.. but again, all the more reason to revisit."

Valerie Lowes

"Very interesting gardens. All parts of the gardens are very well looked after. Nice little cafe. Decent toilets available. You can walk down to the river and there are various pathways down, all quite steep but some less than others. A small bridge goes across the river and there is more to explore on the other side. The tortoise wasn't out in his cage today but probably is sometimes. Lots of fish in a large pond to look at. Can't go inside the house as it is privately owned but can look at it from the outside. Even if you aren't keen on gardening, these gardens are fun and interesting to explore"

Becca

What People Like

Beautifully manicured gardens
Sculpture exhibitions
Dog-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Steep river paths
Cafe sometimes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Abbey House Manor Gardens are located in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. While public transport options might be limited, driving is a common way to access the gardens. Many visitors arrive by car, and parking is generally not a problem, especially on weekdays. Reddit If you're exploring the Cotswolds, it's a scenic drive from nearby towns. TikTok

Yes, parking is available and is typically not an issue, particularly if you visit mid-week. Reddit

Absolutely! Abbey House Manor Gardens are a beautiful addition to any Cotswolds itinerary, offering a glimpse into English country charm. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any specific event schedules. Instagram+1

Admission fees apply for entry to the gardens. While specific prices can change, it's generally an affordable entry fee for the experience. Check their website for current pricing. Instagram

Yes, Abbey House Manor Gardens frequently hosts open days, often featuring live music and refreshments. These are great opportunities to experience the gardens. Instagram+1

Yes, dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens, which is a significant plus for many visitors who enjoy exploring with their pets. Reddit

Some specific activities, like drawing workshops, might have separate arrangements or fees, even if garden entry is paid. It's advisable to confirm details directly with the organizers. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore beautifully manicured gardens, discover hidden nooks, walk down to the river, and enjoy seasonal displays like tulips. There are often sculpture exhibitions adding an artistic element. Reddit+2

While the main garden areas are generally accessible, the paths leading down to the river can be quite steep. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of this. Reddit

The house itself is privately owned and not open to the public for tours. Visitors can admire it from the outside. Reddit

Yes, decent toilet facilities are available for visitors. Reddit

Expect a variety of well-maintained flora, including seasonal flowers like tulips in spring, as well as trees and shrubs throughout the five acres of gardens. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a small cafe on-site, though it may not always be open, especially outside of peak season or special events. Reddit

Yes, there are several eating locations close to the gardens, including a pub, offering convenient options for lunch or refreshments. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, many garden visitors bring picnics. It's always a good idea to check their policy or be mindful of designated areas if available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverbanks offer lovely, peaceful scenes for photography. The manicured gardens themselves, especially during bloom seasons, provide picturesque backdrops. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the beauty of the gardens. Instagram

Specific restrictions on drone usage are not mentioned, but it's always best practice to inquire with the venue directly before flying drones on private property. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Abbey House Manor Gardens can be a delightful outing for families. The expansive grounds offer plenty of space for children to explore and discover. While the paths to the river can be steep, the main garden areas are generally safe and engaging. Reddit Look out for special open days which might include music or other activities that can entertain younger visitors. Instagram+1 The visual appeal of the flowers and the chance to see sculptures can spark curiosity in children. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as the on-site cafe might not always be open. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This is a fantastic destination for dog owners! Abbey House Manor Gardens are one of the few formal gardens that welcome dogs on leads. Reddit It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a beautiful setting with your furry friend. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a lead at all times to respect other visitors and the garden's delicate flora. The river walk offers a lovely area for dogs to explore, provided they are comfortable with the terrain. Reddit

🎨 Art & Nature Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate the fusion of art and nature, Abbey House Manor Gardens are a must-visit. The regular sculpture exhibitions transform the landscape into an open-air gallery, offering a unique viewing experience. Reddit+1 The meticulously maintained gardens themselves are a work of art, showcasing horticultural excellence. Consider attending a drawing workshop if available, to further engage with the creative spirit of the place. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of English Country Gardens

Abbey House Manor Gardens exemplify the quintessential English country garden experience. Spanning five acres, these Grade I listed gardens are meticulously maintained, offering a vibrant tapestry of seasonal blooms, mature trees, and carefully sculpted shrubbery. Visitors often remark on the sheer beauty and the dedication to upkeep, noting how well-looked-after every part of the gardens is. Reddit+1 The appeal lies not just in the visual splendor but also in the sense of peace and tranquility they offer, making them a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.

The gardens are designed to be explored, with winding paths leading to various sections, each with its own charm. From the vibrant displays at the top to the more serene areas down by the river, there's always something new to discover. The inclusion of temporary features like sculpture exhibitions further enhances the visitor experience, blending art with nature in a unique way. Reddit+1 This thoughtful integration of elements ensures that a visit to Abbey House Manor Gardens is both visually stimulating and deeply relaxing.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider visiting during one of their open days. These events often feature live music and refreshments, transforming the gardens into a lively yet still peaceful social gathering spot. Instagram+1 It's a chance to see the gardens in a different light and connect with the local community, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Beyond the Blooms: Activities and Experiences

While the primary draw of Abbey House Manor Gardens is its stunning floral displays, the venue offers more than just a pretty landscape. The gardens are known to host various events throughout the year, from open days with live music to more unique workshops. For instance, forest bathing taster sessions have been offered, providing a mindful way to connect with nature and de-stress. Instagram These activities add an extra layer of engagement, catering to diverse interests beyond traditional gardening appreciation.

Art also finds a prominent place within the gardens. Sculpture exhibitions are frequently held, with artworks strategically placed to complement the natural surroundings. Reddit+1 This creates an engaging dialogue between the art and the landscape, offering visitors a chance to appreciate both. For aspiring artists or those who enjoy creative pursuits, workshops like drawing sessions have also been organized, allowing participants to capture the beauty of the gardens through their own artistic lens. Instagram

Furthermore, the gardens are notably dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their canine companions along for the stroll. Reddit This inclusivity makes it a more accessible and enjoyable destination for a wider range of visitors, including families and pet owners who might otherwise be excluded from formal garden visits. The combination of natural beauty, artistic expression, and welcoming policies makes Abbey House Manor Gardens a multifaceted destination.

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