Anglesey Abbey Gardens & Lode Mill
Explore 98 acres of stunning gardens, a historic house filled with art, and the picturesque Lode Mill.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom for roses
Anglesey Abbey Gardens & Lode Mill
Best Time
Peak bloom for roses
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 98 acres of stunning gardens, a historic house filled with art, and the picturesque Lode Mill.
"Magnificent gardens and a house full of treasures make for a truly memorable day out."
Pack a Picnic 🥚
Food options can be limited and pricey. Bring your own lunch to enjoy in scenic spots.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 98 acres of grounds and gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rose Garden
Gardens
A vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances, especially stunning in summer.
+1
Dahlia Garden
Gardens
Spectacular display of diverse dahlia varieties and breathtaking colors.
Lode Mill
Grounds
A picturesque historic mill offering a glimpse into the past, set amidst serene landscapes.
Lord Fairhaven's Collection
House
Explore the eclectic art, fashion, and historical artifacts left by the former owner.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Gardens
+1Membership & Value
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🥚
Food options can be limited and pricey. Bring your own lunch to enjoy in scenic spots.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 98 acres of grounds and gardens.
Check for Events 🎉
Look for special exhibitions, light trails, or open days for unique experiences.
National Trust Membership 🎟️
Consider membership for cost savings if you visit multiple NT sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🥚
Food options can be limited and pricey. Bring your own lunch to enjoy in scenic spots.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 98 acres of grounds and gardens.
Check for Events 🎉
Look for special exhibitions, light trails, or open days for unique experiences.
National Trust Membership 🎟️
Consider membership for cost savings if you visit multiple NT sites.
Accessibility Info 🚲
Mobility scooter availability and accessibility details can be tricky to confirm last minute.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the magnificent and diverse gardens, particularly the rose and dahlia displays, and the historical richness of Lord Fairhaven's house and collections. While the beauty of the grounds is a major draw, some find the on-site food options limited and pricey, and accessibility details can be challenging to confirm.
"I was fortunate to visit during an open day so entry was free. The house and gardens are very impressive. The grounds are very big and the accompanying map was helpful. The flower displays are excellent especially the roses and dahlias. The house is worth visiting and there are staff in most rooms to explain about the history of the house. There is a main restaurant and toilets at the main entrance and smaller cafe near the house but food choices were poor. I would suggest taking a packed lunch with you. Overall a great day out with lots to see."
Eddie Rogers
"Purchased in 1926 by an oil baron this place is amazing. So many examples of how life used to be lived by the very rich. There was a clothes exhibition on when we visited, this guy new how to dress! Amazing clothes, shoes, hats and accessories from history. The garden was amazing too set out in different zones and cleverly planted. Great place to visit"
Jim Pitt
"Nice National Trust house and gardens. Really enjoyed the display of Dahlia's in the Dahlia garden. It is expensive to get in if you aren't members. Hard to look mobility scooters as they stop answering the phones early (3pm) and take 3 days to respond to emails, so no last minute visits! Garden office café is very limited and has no trays (very difficult if you have a disability). Sandwiches were disappointing (as in all NT properties). Staff gave me two hot teas without lids in Paper cups (remember no trays, have a disability) to try and get over to area for lids etc. No stirrers left. Got a paper cup holder but was still difficult to juggle. Children's play area is a long way from house...it says 15 minute stroll (implying leisurely walking)...it was not. I don't know why they leave something for people with small legs so far away (and tricky areas for prams/strollers) and don't use a distance to give you an idea. Getting a wheelchair down and back was very hard work. Similarly map has no scale so no idea how far it really is. Of course no toilets and you are as far as you can get from the house! Gardens are lovely though, lots of colour. Gets quite busy. Parking is easy, toilets clean."
Emma Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anglesey Abbey is located near Cambridge and Ely. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options include buses from Cambridge, though check schedules as they can be infrequent.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Anglesey Abbey.
Cycling is a great way to explore the Cambridgeshire countryside. There are usually bike racks available at National Trust properties.
The nearest train stations are Cambridge and Whittlesford Parkway. From there, you would typically need to take a bus or taxi to reach Anglesey Abbey.
Anglesey Abbey is well-signposted from the surrounding main roads, making it relatively easy to find by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply for non-National Trust members. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official National Trust website for current admission costs.
Yes, National Trust members get free entry to Anglesey Abbey.
Anglesey Abbey sometimes offers free entry days, such as during Heritage Open Days. Keep an eye on their website for announcements.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for the house, gardens, and mill.
For general visits, booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times. For special events or free entry days, booking is usually essential due to limited capacity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Anglesey Abbey boasts magnificent gardens designed for all seasons, a historic house filled with Lord Fairhaven's art and collections, and the picturesque Lode Mill.
The gardens offer a mix of paved paths and natural trails. Some areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues, and it's advisable to check accessibility information beforehand.
Yes, there is a children's play area, though some visitors note it's a considerable walk from the main house.
Photography is generally permitted in the gardens and grounds for personal use. Professional or commercial photography may require prior arrangement.
Typically, dogs are not allowed in the house or formal gardens but may be permitted in designated areas or on specific walking routes. Check the National Trust's policy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a main restaurant near the visitor entrance offering a wider selection and a smaller café near the house with drinks and snacks.
Reviews on food quality are mixed, with some finding choices limited or disappointing, especially sandwiches.
Yes, bringing a packed lunch is a popular option, allowing you to enjoy your meal in the beautiful grounds.
Specific dietary options can vary. It's best to inquire directly with the café staff upon arrival or check the National Trust website for menu details.
Yes, there is a shop selling a variety of items, though some visitors find the pricing to be on the higher side.
📸 📸 Photography
The rose and dahlia gardens offer stunning floral displays. The Lode Mill and various statues dotted around the grounds also make for picturesque shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check specific site rules.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) often provide the best light for capturing the beauty of the gardens and house.
Photography is usually allowed during events, but check event-specific guidelines. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
Yes, commercial photography and videography usually require prior permission from the National Trust.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a dedicated children's play area, be aware that it's a bit of a walk from the main house, so factor that into your plans. Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, as it allows for flexible meal breaks amidst the beautiful scenery.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 or enjoy the vibrant colors of the dahlia garden in autumn. Find a quiet bench amidst the lawns and woodlands for a peaceful moment together, or explore the historic house and its art collections. Pre-wedding and engagement shoots are also popular here, highlighting the venue's romantic ambiance.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Take your time wandering through the diverse gardens, discovering hidden statues, and learning about the history of the house and Lord Fairhaven's collections. It's a perfect spot for reading, sketching, or simply enjoying the tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gardens: A Seasonal Masterpiece
+1 to the breathtaking dahlia displays in autumn,The grounds seamlessly blend formal manicured spaces with more naturalistic grassland and woodland areas. Statues are artfully placed throughout, adding an element of discovery to your stroll. The walk to the Lode Mill is particularly scenic, often carpeted with cyclamen in the cooler months.
Visitors often praise the variety and meticulous care of the planting. Whether you're a keen gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the gardens provide a tranquil and visually stunning experience.
The House: A Glimpse into Lord Fairhaven's World
+1Inside, you can explore rooms filled with treasures, from fine art to historical artifacts. A notable highlight is the exhibition of Lord Fairhaven's impressive wardrobe, featuring elegant suits, hats, and accessories that offer a fascinating insight into the style of his era.
Staff members are often present in the rooms to share stories and answer questions, enriching the visitor's understanding of the house's history and its former inhabitant.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the flowers, the Lode Mill offers a charming rustic backdrop, while the numerous statues scattered throughout the grounds add artistic flair to your shots. The architecture of the house itself, along with its interiors, presents opportunities for capturing historical and aesthetic details.
+1For those looking for unique shots, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for soft, flattering light. Special events, like the Christmas light trails, also provide magical photographic moments.
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