Our entrance gatehouse framed by summer blooms.
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Elizabethan Gardens Manteo

4.5
·118 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene 10-acre living memorial in Manteo, NC, blending historical significance with beautiful botanical landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Our entrance gatehouse framed by summer blooms.

Elizabethan Gardens Manteo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 10-acre living memorial in Manteo, NC, blending historical significance with beautiful botanical landscapes.

4.5
(118 reviews)

"Absolutely GORGEOUS little find. It's like a magical secret that Plymouth has kept well hidden."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Pet-Friendly (with a fee)

Dogs are welcome but require a ticket purchase.

📚 Kids' Nature Activity

The 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' makes exploring fun for children.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Elizabethan Garden

The Elizabethan Garden

Manteo, NC

A 10-acre living memorial to the Lost Colony, featuring blooming pathways and historical significance.

Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare Statue

Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare Statue

Garden Entrance

A striking statue commemorating Queen Elizabeth I and Virginia Dare, America's first English child born in the New World.

The Roanoke Sound Views

The Roanoke Sound Views

Garden Perimeter

Enjoy tranquil views of the Roanoke Sound, especially atmospheric on misty or cooler days.

Children's Nature Activities

Children's Nature Activities

Throughout the Gardens

Engage kids with the 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' for a fun, nature-focused exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tranquility

Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the serene atmosphere. Weekends and peak seasons can bring more visitors, diminishing the peaceful escape. Instagram

Accessibility and Pet Policies

The gardens have steps and are spread over several levels, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. While generally dog-friendly, a ticket is required for canine companions. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring blooms
Why
Vibrant flowers and lush greenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Misty atmosphere, unique charm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ONE OF THE OLDEST STREETS IN PLYMOUTH CASTLE STREET AND ON THAT STREET IS ELIZABEATHAN GARDENS EXCELLENT. 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩 #brilliant #FUN #TRAVEL
@magzy2step
3.4K likes • 77.1K views

🐾 Pet-Friendly (with a fee)

Dogs are welcome but require a ticket purchase. Instagram

📚 Kids' Nature Activity

The 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' makes exploring fun for children. Instagram

Discover fun and affordable things to do in Plymouth✨ We’ve put together a list of our top ten budget-friendly things to do in Plymouth: 🖼️ The Box 🌊Plymouth trails app 🪴Elizabethan Gardens ⚓️Mayflower Museum 🧭Southwest Coast Path 🏊‍♂️Discover the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park 🏞️ Dartmoor National Park 🐠 National Marine Aquarium 🌌The Market Hall 🎆Experience events #BritainsOceanCity #Vis...
@visitplymouth
609 likes • 19K views
🌿 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒗𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒕 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝑮𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒔 🌼 Tucked away in Manteo, this peaceful spot is a must for any OBX vacation. Wander through blooming pathways, learn a little local history, and don’t forget to grab the 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤—a fun way for kids to connect with nature along the way! 🦋📖 🌱 A peaceful detour when beach plans are on pause. 📌 Add this to your OBX must-visit list!
outerbanksblue
36 likes • 1.4K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the beauty of the gardens, especially the statues and historic architecture. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Escape

Ideal for a quiet retreat and a break from beach activities. Instagram

Elizabethan Gardens NC statue of Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare Americas First Born from the Lost Colony #reels #instareelsdaily #outerbanks #gardenreels #manteo #elizabethangardens
theshannongilmore
8 likes • 189 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Pet-Friendly (with a fee)

Dogs are welcome but require a ticket purchase. Instagram

📚 Kids' Nature Activity

The 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' makes exploring fun for children. Instagram

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the beauty of the gardens, especially the statues and historic architecture. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Escape

Ideal for a quiet retreat and a break from beach activities. Instagram

🎟️ Admission Required

Entry requires a ticket purchase; check hours before visiting. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(118 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors describe the Elizabethan Gardens as a delightful, serene, and beautifully maintained 'grown-up nook' offering a peaceful escape. Many are captivated by its 'magical secret' quality and historical significance, appreciating the blend of nature and heritage. While generally well-loved, some note the limited activities for children and accessibility challenges due to the garden's multi-level design.

"A delightful grown up 'nook' in which to rest and refresh your enthusiasm. Buy a pastie and sit in peace to enjoy it here. Stone benches to sit at for your picnic and shade from the Summer sun, though it is a bit cold in Winter. Access is by a discrete door from the top or off New Street just back from the harbour side. Toilets are on the Quay. This is a small garden in the Elizabethan style so nothing much for children to do if bored.
Set over several levels there are steps to contend with so not really wheelchair accessible."

Nigel Huxtable

"A small but lovely garden, situated in a historic part of Plymouth. Quite pleasant to see this little piece of history, which the locals managed to save the council demolishing the area (like so many post war)"

Tom (Bozz)

"Beautiful experience for around half and hours without reading .
Just to be .

While the history that palce it is very interested so these couple information board will bring your attention."

Hanna Drzewucka

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautifully landscaped gardens
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited activities for children
Accessibility challenges (steps)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Elizabethan Gardens are located in Manteo, North Carolina, within the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. They are accessible by car and are a popular stop for visitors exploring the Outer Banks. Instagram+1

Yes, there is parking available for visitors at the Elizabethan Gardens. Instagram

Yes, the Elizabethan Gardens are located within the grounds of the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Instagram

The entrance is discreet and can be accessed from New Street, just back from the harbor side. Reddit

Absolutely! Many visitors include the Elizabethan Gardens as part of their Outer Banks itinerary, often visiting from nearby towns like Nags Head or Kitty Hawk. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is required to enter the Elizabethan Gardens. While specific prices can vary, it's advisable to check their official website for the most current ticket information. Instagram

Opening hours can change seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Elizabethan Gardens website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can be a good idea, especially during peak season, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Instagram

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel is typically available on the official website. It's best to inquire directly or check their site for details. TikTok

Yes, dogs are welcome in the gardens but require a separate ticket purchase for your canine companion. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Explore 10 acres of themed gardens, discover statues like the one of Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare, enjoy views of the Roanoke Sound, and participate in nature activities for kids. Instagram+2

Yes, the gardens offer a 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' to engage children in nature exploration. Instagram

The gardens provide stone benches suitable for picnics, offering shade during warmer months. Reddit

The gardens are spread over several levels with steps, making them not fully wheelchair accessible. Reddit

A visit typically takes around half an hour to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring and reading the information boards. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The statues, the fountain, the manicured hedges, and the views of the Roanoke Sound offer excellent photographic opportunities. Instagram+2

Policies on professional photography and drone usage can vary. It's best to contact the gardens directly to inquire about any restrictions or permit requirements. Instagram

The serene and beautiful setting makes it a picturesque location for engagement and wedding photos, though it's wise to check their policies for such events. Instagram

Look for the historic carvings etched into the walls near the archway, and the charming Elizabethan-style architecture. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the garden's beauty without harsh shadows. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Elizabethan Gardens offer a delightful experience for families, especially with the 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' designed to make exploring nature fun and educational for children. Instagram While the gardens are beautiful, parents should be aware that the multi-level design with steps might require extra attention when navigating with strollers or very young children. Reddit It's a great spot for a peaceful break from the beach, offering a different kind of outdoor adventure. Remember to purchase a ticket for your furry friends if you plan to bring a dog along! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Couples and Romantic Getaways

The Elizabethan Gardens provide a wonderfully romantic setting, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape. The serene atmosphere, charming pathways, and the historic archway—ideal for a kiss—create an intimate ambiance. Reddit It's a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, hand-in-hand, enjoying the beauty of the meticulously maintained gardens and the tranquil views of the Roanoke Sound. Instagram Consider visiting during the quieter weekday mornings for an even more secluded experience. Instagram

🐶 Pet Owners

Good news for pet owners: the Elizabethan Gardens are dog-friendly! Instagram However, it's important to note that your canine companions will need their own admission ticket to enter the gardens. Instagram This policy ensures that all visitors, including the four-legged ones, are accounted for. The gardens offer a pleasant environment for a walk with your dog, provided you adhere to their ticketing policy. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Memorial to the Lost Colony

The Elizabethan Gardens are more than just a beautiful botanical space; they are a living memorial to the era of Sir Walter Raleigh's Lost Colony, which settled in this very area over 400 years ago. Instagram+1 The 10-acre oasis was designed to evoke the spirit of that historical period, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. Wandering through the meticulously landscaped grounds, you can almost imagine the lives of those early English settlers.

Key features like the statue of Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare, America's first English child born in the New World, underscore this historical connection. Instagram The gardens are a testament to preservation efforts, saving this historic site from demolition. Reddit Information boards scattered throughout the gardens provide insights into the history of the site and the surrounding area, enriching the visitor experience. Reddit

This dedication to historical remembrance, combined with the natural beauty, makes the Elizabethan Gardens a unique destination that appeals to history buffs and nature lovers alike. It offers a peaceful detour and a chance to reflect on the enduring legacy of early American history. Instagram+1

Exploring the Garden's Design and Features

The Elizabethan Gardens are characterized by their compact, courtyard-style design, featuring a central fountain, manicured hedges, and a serene atmosphere. TikTok The layout is spread over several levels, incorporating steps that add to its unique charm but also affect accessibility. Reddit Visitors can find stone benches strategically placed throughout the garden, offering peaceful spots to rest, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the tranquility. Reddit

Beyond the formal landscaping, the gardens offer glimpses of the Roanoke Sound, which can be particularly atmospheric on misty or cooler days, adding a touch of mystery and a 'spooky vibe' during certain seasons. Instagram For younger visitors, the 'Gunnery Marker Activity Book' provides an engaging way to connect with nature and learn about the garden's flora and fauna. Instagram The gardens are also noted for being pet-friendly, though a ticket is required for dogs, adding to their welcoming nature for many visitors. Instagram

Each section of the garden is designed to offer a different experience, from the vibrant blooms in spring to the quiet contemplation offered in cooler months. The blend of historical homage and horticultural artistry creates a captivating environment that draws visitors back time and again. Instagram+1

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