Claremont Landscape Garden
A serene National Trust garden with a serpentine lake, historic follies, and a whimsical Moomin trail.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Camellias and rhododendrons bloom
Claremont Landscape Garden
Best Time
Camellias and rhododendrons bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene National Trust garden with a serpentine lake, historic follies, and a whimsical Moomin trail.
"Exceptionally peaceful and relaxing, allowing you to just be present."
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks Await
Enjoy the serene lake and garden paths. Mostly gentle, perfect for a relaxing stroll. :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. Café options are available but can be pricey. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serpentine Lake
Central feature
A stunning man-made lake designed for picturesque walks and moments of quiet reflection.

Belvedere Tower
Overlooking the lake
An elegant architectural folly offering framed views of the gardens and a sense of historical grandeur.

Grass Amphitheatre
Near the lake
A unique and serene sunken space, perfect for relaxing and appreciating the garden's design.
Moomin Trail
Throughout the gardens
A whimsical trail where hidden Moomin characters are tucked away, delighting younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Seasonal Delights & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks Await
Enjoy the serene lake and garden paths. Mostly gentle, perfect for a relaxing stroll. :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. Café options are available but can be pricey. :sandwich:
🕵️♀️ Hunt for Moomins
Embark on the Moomin trail for a fun family adventure. Kids love finding the hidden characters! :child:
📅 Check for Events
Look out for seasonal trails like the sculpture trail in June. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks Await
Enjoy the serene lake and garden paths. Mostly gentle, perfect for a relaxing stroll. :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. Café options are available but can be pricey. :sandwich:
🕵️♀️ Hunt for Moomins
Embark on the Moomin trail for a fun family adventure. Kids love finding the hidden characters! :child:
📅 Check for Events
Look out for seasonal trails like the sculpture trail in June. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Claremont Landscape Garden for its exceptional peace and beauty, highlighting the serene lake and well-maintained grounds as perfect for relaxation and picnics. The Moomin trail is a delightful addition for families. While the natural beauty and historical design are highly appreciated, some find the cafe prices to be on the higher side, a common observation for National Trust properties.
"A really stunning place to visit, the lake and walk around the gardens are lovely. The place is exceptionally peaceful and relaxing and allow you to just be present. I would highly recommend for everyone to visit as the location is perfect for a stop, a picnic, a walk in nature or to find all of the Moomin on the trails."
Mitchell Smith
"The name tells you what it is! There's a sculpture trail around the lake in June 2025 which is lovely. If you stay by the lake then it's an easy walk which you can complete in an hour and then treat yourself at the cafe."
Steve Rochford
"Fantastic walks around the lake and up to the viewpoints. Boating was really fun for the kids too, as was the playpark. Nice food and cakes, completely overpriced but it's a NT standard practice doing that. Niche market, what can you do?"
Craig Phelan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Claremont Landscape Garden is located near Esher, Surrey. You can reach it by car via the A3. For public transport, take a train to Esher station, then a bus or taxi to the gardens. Some visitors mention it's a beautiful area for a day trip from London.
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for any parking charges or restrictions, especially during peak times.
Cycling is a great way to explore the Surrey countryside. There are usually cycle racks available at National Trust properties, but it's always good to confirm beforehand.
Yes, Esher station is the nearest train station. From there, local bus services or a taxi can take you to the gardens.
Taking a train from London Waterloo to Esher is a popular option, followed by a short bus or taxi ride. It's a scenic journey into the Surrey countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply, and it's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for special events. National Trust members get free entry. Check the official National Trust website for current pricing.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times for the gardens and facilities like the cafe.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is often recommended, particularly for weekends or during popular seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
National Trust members enjoy free entry. Keep an eye on the National Trust website for any special offers or family ticket deals that might be available.
Yes, non-members can purchase tickets for entry. Membership offers great value if you plan to visit multiple National Trust properties throughout the year.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Key features include the serpentine lake, Belvedere Tower, grass amphitheatre, and the Moomin trail. The gardens are renowned for their mature landscapes and historical design.
Absolutely! The Moomin trail is a big hit with kids, and there's also a children's playground. The mostly gentle paths make it family-friendly.
Dogs are generally welcome in the gardens on leads, but it's always best to check the specific National Trust policy for Claremont Landscape Garden regarding dog access and any restrictions.
Guided tours may be offered, especially during peak season or for special events. Check the National Trust website or inquire at the visitor centre upon arrival for tour schedules.
The garden features camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, and ancient trees, offering seasonal color. The landscape design is a blend of different eras, showcasing mature plantings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Gardener's Bothy cafe offers hot lunches, cakes, and drinks. It's a cozy spot to pause during your visit.
Some visitors note that the cafe prices are typical for National Trust properties, which can be on the higher side. However, the quality is generally good.
Yes, bringing a picnic is highly encouraged! There are many beautiful spots throughout the gardens perfect for enjoying your own food.
The cafe usually offers a selection of options, including vegetarian and sometimes vegan choices. It's advisable to check the current menu or ask staff for specific dietary information.
While there are designated picnic areas, you can also find benches scattered throughout the gardens. Bringing a picnic blanket is a good idea for more comfort.
📸 📸 Photography
The serpentine lake, Belvedere Tower, and the grass amphitheatre offer stunning photographic opportunities. The framed views through trees and the seasonal blooms are also very photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Please check the official National Trust guidelines for Claremont Landscape Garden before flying a drone.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
The Moomin trail offers charming and whimsical photo opportunities for families. The playground and various scenic spots around the lake are also great for capturing memories.
Professional photoshoots may require special permission and booking. It's essential to contact the National Trust directly to inquire about their policy and any associated fees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
🌳 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Design of Claremont Landscape Garden
The garden is renowned for its iconic features, such as the sweeping serpentine lake, which forms the heart of the landscape. The Belvedere Tower, designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, offers picturesque, framed views of the surrounding gardens, adding a sense of architectural drama. Another distinctive element is the grass amphitheatre, a serene sunken space that provides a tranquil spot for visitors to relax and absorb the scenery. These elements, combined with carefully curated plantings, create a harmonious and visually captivating experience.
Throughout the year, Claremont offers a dynamic display of color and texture. Spring brings vibrant blooms from camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas, while the garden's ancient trees provide a majestic presence and seasonal foliage changes. The National Trust meticulously maintains these plantings, ensuring the garden remains a rewarding destination in every season. The blend of historical design, natural beauty, and ongoing horticultural care makes Claremont Landscape Garden a truly special place to explore.
Family Fun and the Moomin Trail
Beyond the Moomin adventure, the garden features a dedicated children's playground, providing ample space for kids to run, climb, and play. The mostly gentle and well-maintained paths are also ideal for little legs, making it easy for families to navigate the grounds. The boating on the lake is another activity that often delights children, offering a different perspective of the garden.
While the Gardener's Bothy cafe offers refreshments, visitors are also welcome to bring their own picnics, which can be a more budget-friendly option for families. The serene environment allows for a relaxed day out, where children can connect with nature while enjoying the various attractions designed to spark their imagination and provide active fun.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit