The hidden garden to the rear
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Coronation Garden

4.6
·124 reviews·, United Kingdom

A whimsical garden in Hazelbank Park, featuring dancing topiary and classical design, opened by King Charles III.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

For a peaceful stroll

CrowdLow
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The hidden garden to the rear

Coronation Garden

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

For a peaceful stroll

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A whimsical garden in Hazelbank Park, featuring dancing topiary and classical design, opened by King Charles III.

4.6
(124 reviews)

"A must-visit for its unique musical show and beautiful, tranquil design."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎶 Catch the Musical Show

Trees spin and dance to music every hour! Arrive a few minutes early. :musical_score:

📍 Location, Location, Location

Just a short drive from Belfast City Centre in Hazelbank Park. :round_pushpin:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dancing Topiary

The Dancing Topiary

Central Garden Area

Watch as topiary trees spin and move to music, a whimsical spectacle that delights all ages.

Instagram+1
Diarmuid Gavin's Design

Diarmuid Gavin's Design

Throughout the Garden

Admire the award-winning gardener's vision of classical architecture and pollinator-friendly planting.

Instagram+1
The Ornate Pavilion

The Ornate Pavilion

Near the Entrance

A stunning architectural feature, complete with a rooftop crown, offering a regal touch.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While the Coronation Garden is a peaceful escape, visiting during peak times like weekends or holidays can mean fewer quiet moments. Consider a weekday morning for a truly serene experience. Instagram

Embrace the Musical Magic

Don't miss the unique hourly show where trees dance and music plays! Arrive a few minutes before the hour to secure a good spot and enjoy the whimsical performance. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
For a peaceful stroll
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Summer
Why
Blooms and pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
On the Hour
Why
To catch the music show
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👑This time last year we went to the palace for tea with Charles and Camilla #RoyalTea #buckinghampalace #royals #royalgardenparty #princecharles #kingcharles #coronationday #afternoontea 👗@LittleMistressUK @John Lewis #littlemistressUK #johnlewis 🕴️@mossbros #mossbros
@mummatrona
100.5K likes • 1.1M views

🎶 Catch the Musical Show

Trees spin and dance to music every hour! Arrive a few minutes early. Instagram+1 :musical_score:

📍 Location, Location, Location

Just a short drive from Belfast City Centre in Hazelbank Park. Instagram+2 :round_pushpin:

The Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor arriving at Westminster Abbey for the #Coronation 
@royalsintheworld
30.1K likes • 1.1M views
The King’s Coronation Garden is located in Hazelbank Park, Newtownabbey, just 15 minutes northeast of Belfast 👑🌸 Have you visited this hidden gem yet? #VisitBelfast
visitbelfast
470 likes • 20.3K views

🌸 Pollinator-Friendly Paradise

Designed with sustainability and wildlife in mind, reflecting King Charles's passions. Instagram+1 :butterfly:

👑 Royal Inauguration

Officially opened by King Charles III and Queen Camilla themselves! Instagram+1 :crown:

Coronation Garden Located in the beautiful setting of Hazelbank Park, The Coronation Garden has been designed by award-winning gardener Diarmuid Gavin and will be a floral tapestry with classical architecture style, planted in a pollinator friendly and sustainable way reflecting some of the great loves of His Royal Highness King Charles III. To commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty The King an...
travellernorthernireland
4.3K likes • 152.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎶 Catch the Musical Show

Trees spin and dance to music every hour! Arrive a few minutes early. Instagram+1 :musical_score:

📍 Location, Location, Location

Just a short drive from Belfast City Centre in Hazelbank Park. Instagram+2 :round_pushpin:

🌸 Pollinator-Friendly Paradise

Designed with sustainability and wildlife in mind, reflecting King Charles's passions. Instagram+1 :butterfly:

👑 Royal Inauguration

Officially opened by King Charles III and Queen Camilla themselves! Instagram+1 :crown:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Hazelbank Park

The garden is within a larger park, offering more space for walks and relaxation. Instagram+1 :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(124 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Coronation Garden for its unique, whimsical charm, particularly the hourly musical display of dancing trees. The beautiful design by Diarmuid Gavin and its peaceful atmosphere are frequently highlighted. It's seen as a delightful and free attraction, perfect for a relaxing visit.

"The Coronation Garden is a lovely quiet space to sit and reflect, read a book or explore history. It’s in the Georgian area of Beverley, very close to North Bar.
It is absolutely steeped in history! You’ll see gravestones of all ages and shapes around the outskirts of the garden; follow the path through to the back and you’ll find the most amazing old cemetery with many interesting inscriptions on the various monuments.
The garden is very well cared for and new features have been added in recent years including a stone head and a tree planted by the vicar of nearby St Mary’s couch to commemorate victims of the Pandemic."

Anne Marie Stagg

"The gardens are nice to sit in and have a drink / bite to eat, especially in the summer. Usually a nice quiet place. Also seems to be a good place to take dogs for a walk. There's a little graveyard at the back too which is worth a look. Lots of interesting plants and flowers to look at and plenty of birds visit the garden too!"

Sasha O'Neill

"Lovely peaceful gardens in Beverley town centre just next to the North Bar. Lots of benches to enjoy a break with a coffee from the numerous independent cafes nearby. This garden was extremely well used during lockdown but quietened down a bit now. Very well maintained with a sensory garden and plants to attract wildlife. Best part is the graveyard! Some really interesting headstones including some prominent local figures mainly mid to late 1800s."

S Hunt

What People Like

Whimsical dancing trees
Beautiful garden design
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded during shows

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Coronation Garden is conveniently located in Hazelbank Park, Newtownabbey, which is about a 10-15 minute drive northeast of Belfast City Centre. Instagram+3 Many visitors find it easy to access by car. Public transport options might be available, but driving is generally recommended for ease of access. Instagram

Yes, Hazelbank Park typically offers parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Instagram+1

While specific public transport routes are not detailed in the provided content, it's advisable to check local bus schedules for services to Newtownabbey or Hazelbank Park from Belfast. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Coronation Garden is generally considered a free attraction, offering a wonderful day out without an entry fee. Instagram

While specific hours aren't listed, social media posts suggest it's open for visitors to enjoy, especially during spring and summer months. Instagram+1 It's best to check local listings or the park's official information for precise times.

The garden was officially opened in May 2023 to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. Instagram+2

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The garden is famous for its unique musical and moving topiary display, where trees spin and dance to music every hour. Instagram+2 It also features classical architecture and beautiful floral designs by Diarmuid Gavin. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The whimsical dancing trees and musical elements are a big hit with children, making it a fun and engaging visit for families. Instagram+2

While not explicitly stated in the provided content, many gardens within larger parks are dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to check local park regulations. The reviews mention it's a good place for dogs. Reddit

The garden is planted in a pollinator-friendly and sustainable way, reflecting King Charles III's passion for nature and conservation. Instagram+2

Yes, besides the dancing topiary, there's an ornate pavilion with a rooftop crown and beautiful floral displays designed by Diarmuid Gavin. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The dancing topiary, the ornate pavilion with its crown, and the vibrant floral displays offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1 The overall classical architecture also makes for stunning shots. Instagram

There is no specific mention of drone photography rules. It's best to assume standard park regulations apply and check for any signage or local guidelines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Coronation Garden is a fantastic spot for families! The hourly musical show with dancing trees is a guaranteed hit with children, creating a magical and memorable experience. Instagram+1 It's a free attraction located within the larger Hazelbank Park, offering plenty of space for kids to explore and run around. Instagram The whimsical nature of the garden, combined with its beautiful design, makes it an engaging outing for all ages. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

For those looking to capture stunning visuals, the Coronation Garden offers numerous opportunities. The ornate pavilion with its rooftop crown and the dynamic, spinning topiary are particularly photogenic. Instagram+1 The garden's classical architecture and vibrant floral displays provide a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during spring and summer. Instagram+1 The hourly musical show also adds a unique element for capturing dynamic content. Instagram

🌿 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts

Garden lovers will appreciate the thoughtful design by Diarmuid Gavin, featuring classical architecture and pollinator-friendly planting. Instagram+1 The garden is a celebration of sustainability and reflects King Charles III's passion for the environment. Instagram+1 Visitors can enjoy the diverse flora and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a delightful escape for anyone who appreciates horticultural beauty. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Vision of Diarmuid Gavin

The Coronation Garden is a testament to the creative genius of award-winning gardener Diarmuid Gavin. His design blends classical architecture with vibrant, pollinator-friendly planting, creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically conscious. Instagram+1 Gavin's signature style is evident in the thoughtful layout and the integration of unique features that reflect the spirit of the coronation. Instagram

The garden is not just about visual beauty; it's designed to be a sustainable haven that supports local wildlife. The choice of plants and the overall design philosophy align with the environmental values championed by King Charles III, making it a meaningful tribute. Instagram+1

Visitors can expect a floral tapestry that changes with the seasons, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. The combination of traditional garden elements with innovative features ensures that the Coronation Garden remains a captivating destination for all who visit. Instagram+1

A Musical and Whimsical Experience

One of the most enchanting aspects of the Coronation Garden is its hourly musical performance. At the top of each hour, the garden comes alive as topiary trees begin to spin and dance to a curated soundtrack. Instagram+2 This delightful spectacle, often accompanied by tunes like 'Pure Imagination,' transforms the garden into a whimsical wonderland, captivating visitors of all ages. Instagram

This unique feature was designed to add an element of surprise and joy to the visitor experience. It's a testament to the garden's aim to be more than just a static display; it's an interactive and memorable destination. Instagram The spinning trees are a particular highlight, creating a magical atmosphere that is both unexpected and enchanting. Instagram+1

To fully appreciate this charming show, it's recommended to arrive a few minutes before the hour to find a good vantage point. Instagram The combination of beautiful landscaping and this playful, musical element makes the Coronation Garden a truly special place to visit. Instagram

A Royal Connection and Community Spirit

The Coronation Garden holds a special significance as it was created to mark the Coronation of King Charles III. The garden was officially opened by King Charles III and Queen Camilla themselves in May 2023, adding a royal touch to this community project. Instagram+3

Beyond the royal inauguration, the garden embodies a strong community spirit. It was brought to life by local gardeners and gardening groups, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in its creation. Instagram+1 During the opening, Their Majesties met with these community groups, including local schoolchildren and a choir for Dementia carers, underscoring the garden's role as a place for connection and shared enjoyment. Instagram+1

This blend of royal patronage and community involvement makes the Coronation Garden a unique and meaningful destination. It serves as a beautiful tribute to the coronation while also celebrating local talent and fostering a sense of togetherness. Instagram+1

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