Claremont Landscape Garden - Image 1
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Claremont Landscape Garden

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Camellias and rhododendrons bloom

CrowdLow
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Claremont Landscape Garden - Image 1

Claremont Landscape Garden

Best Time

Spring mornings

Camellias and rhododendrons bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Exceptionally peaceful and relaxing, allowing you to just be present."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serpentine Lake

The Serpentine Lake

Central feature

A stunning man-made lake designed for picturesque walks and moments of quiet reflection.

Belvedere Tower

Belvedere Tower

Overlooking the lake

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

Grass Amphitheatre

Grass Amphitheatre

Near the lake

A unique and serene sunken space, perfect for relaxing and appreciating the garden's design.

Moomin Trail

Moomin Trail

Throughout the gardens

A whimsical trail where hidden Moomin characters are tucked away, delighting younger visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Serenity

Claremont Landscape Garden is a National Trust property known for its peaceful atmosphere. Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility before crowds build, especially on weekends. Consider packing a picnic to fully savor the serene surroundings.

Seasonal Delights & Trails

While beautiful year-round, Claremont offers distinct seasonal blooms. Look out for the Moomin trail, a delightful addition for families, and a sculpture trail in June. Check the National Trust website for event updates.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Camellias and rhododendrons bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low
When
June (Sculpture Trail)
Why
Art meets nature
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We had only been there 2 minutes😭😅 #fyp #headstuck #chessington #funny #daughter #foryou #gottalaugh
@paaaigexo_
67.6K likes • 3.9M views

🚶‍♀️ 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:

SECRET day at Chessington that unlocks some amazing perks! #chessington #themepark #rides #rollercoaster @Blue Light Card @Chessington World ofAdventures
@coastertog
49.3K likes • 715K views
England Beyond London – Part 7: Surrey 🌿 We might be a little biased because we live here… but Surrey is one of the most beautiful corners of England — especially if you love the outdoors. Just a short train ride from London, Surrey is a haven for nature lovers, with rolling hills, peaceful woodlands, charming villages, and some of the best countryside walks in the country. 🍃 Top parks & garden...
theweeshastravel
0 likes • 57.1K views

🕵️‍♀️ 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:

chessington employee by day, rap star by night 🎢🎤 #centralcee #chessington #celebritylookalike
@lifewithlivs_
43.9K likes • 1.6M views

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

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Stunningly peaceful and relaxing
Beautiful lake and gardens
Delightful Moomin trail

What People Dislike

Cafe prices can be high

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is often recommended, particularly for weekends or during popular seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The garden features camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, and ancient trees, offering seasonal color. The landscape design is a blend of different eras, showcasing mature plantings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Gardener's Bothy cafe offers hot lunches, cakes, and drinks. It's a cozy spot to pause during your visit. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is highly encouraged! There are many beautiful spots throughout the gardens perfect for enjoying your own food. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

Claremont Landscape Garden is a wonderful choice for a family day out. The Moomin trail is a guaranteed hit, turning a garden visit into a fun treasure hunt. Reddit Don't miss the children's playground for active fun, and consider the boating on the lake for an extra splash of excitement. Reddit The paths are generally easy to navigate, making it stroller-friendly in many areas. Packing a picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For those seeking a tranquil escape, Claremont Landscape Garden is ideal. Its reputation for being exceptionally peaceful and relaxing makes it perfect for solo visitors looking to unwind and be present. Reddit Wander the serpentine lake, find a quiet bench by the grass amphitheatre, or simply sit and admire the mature landscapes. The well-maintained paths offer a gentle way to explore without exertion, allowing for deep relaxation. Reddit

🌳 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts

Claremont Landscape Garden is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates horticultural design and mature landscapes. Explore the historical layers of design by Bridgeman, Kent, and Capability Brown. Reddit Admire the seasonal blooms of camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas, and marvel at the ancient trees. The serpentine lake and Belvedere Tower are key features showcasing classic landscape architecture. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Design of Claremont Landscape Garden

Claremont Landscape Garden is a masterpiece of landscape design, spanning approximately 49 acres. Its evolution over centuries involved some of Britain's most celebrated garden designers, including Charles Bridgeman, William Kent, and Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. Reddit This collaboration has resulted in a layered design that blends formal elements with naturalistic beauty, creating a truly unique and historically significant garden. The garden's layout is a testament to the changing tastes in garden design from the early 18th century onwards. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Family Fun and the Moomin Trail

Claremont Landscape Garden is a fantastic destination for families, offering more than just beautiful scenery. The Moomin trail is a particular highlight for younger visitors, transforming the garden into a magical world. Children can embark on a delightful scavenger hunt to find hidden Moomin characters tucked away within the landscape, making the exploration interactive and engaging. Reddit This adds an element of storybook charm to the visit, encouraging kids to explore every nook and cranny. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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