Trentham Gardens Stoke-on-Trent - a garden with flowers with Butchart Gardens in the background
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Trentham Gardens Stoke-on-Trent

4.6
·12k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vast 725-acre estate featuring stunning Italian Gardens, a unique Monkey Forest, shopping village, and seasonal events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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Trentham Gardens Stoke-on-Trent - a garden with flowers with Butchart Gardens in the background

Trentham Gardens Stoke-on-Trent

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast 725-acre estate featuring stunning Italian Gardens, a unique Monkey Forest, shopping village, and seasonal events.

4.6
(12k reviews)

"A brilliant place for a day out with children, offering unique experiences and beautiful surroundings."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the vast gardens and lake.

🐒 Monkey Forest Tips

Check feeding times for the best experience. Monkeys roam freely!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trentham Monkey Forest

Trentham Monkey Forest

Adjacent to the gardens

Get up close with Barbary macaques roaming freely in the UK's largest primate enclosure. Watch feeding times for expert insights.

TikTok
Italian Gardens

Italian Gardens

Main garden area

Explore award-winning gardens designed by Tom Stuart-Smith, featuring stunning floral displays and lakeside walks.

Instagram+1
Barefoot Walk

Barefoot Walk

Near the adventure playground

A unique sensory experience walking barefoot through various natural textures. Great fun for all ages!

Reddit
Trentham Estate Ruins

Trentham Estate Ruins

Within the gardens

Discover the crumbling splendor of Trentham Hall ruins, a poignant reminder of the estate's rich history.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Save 10% by booking garden tickets 48 hours ahead! Consider an annual membership for frequent visits. This is a popular spot, so booking early ensures your spot and saves money. Instagram

Plan for a Full Day

Trentham Gardens is vast, with a huge lake and extensive grounds. You can easily spend 5 hours and still not see everything. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring! Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Special events (Halloween, Christmas)
Why
Unique illuminated trails & activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

And it’s the largest primate enclosure in the UK!🐒 You get SO close to the monkeys and they even walk right past you as they cross the paths to get to the other side. There’s set feeding times throughout the day so you can learn from the experts about the conservation work they do with the Barbary macaques. The oldest monkey they have is 31 years old and the youngest was just 6 days old 🥹 There’s ...
@thepatmores
44K likes • 1.6M views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the vast gardens and lake. InstagramReddit

🐒 Monkey Forest Tips

Check feeding times for the best experience. Monkeys roam freely! TikTok

Trentham Monkey Forest🌱 #trenthammonkeyforest #monkeyforest #dateideas #monkey #zoo
@siddlekeryn
24.5K likes • 927K views
#Gifted We visited Trentham Gardens and had a really enjoyable day out, there’s SO much to do here, it’s beautiful. 😊 Top tip, if you’re going, make sure you buy your ticket 48 hours in advance for the 10% discount, or get a children’s annual membership for just £25! Also, they have daily events going on in the gardens which is free upon entry! 🙌 It’s the perfect weather to have a picnic, a walk...
welovestoke
66 likes • 7.1K views

☕ Grab a Coffee

Enjoy an Arctic Frappe while exploring the grounds. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens for a lovely family outing. Reddit

Christmas at Trentham 🎄⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ AD | We were kindly invited to @trenthamlights last night for a sneak peek of “Christmas at Trentham” before it opens to the public this evening. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ The brand-new illuminated light trail covers the stunning, historic gardens and creates such a magical atmosphere. There is just so much light and sparkle to see at every corner. The beautifully lit Christmas tree takes...
brummymummydiaries
496 likes • 5.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the vast gardens and lake. InstagramReddit

🐒 Monkey Forest Tips

Check feeding times for the best experience. Monkeys roam freely! TikTok

☕ Grab a Coffee

Enjoy an Arctic Frappe while exploring the grounds. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens for a lovely family outing. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during spring and summer. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Trentham Gardens for its beautiful, expansive grounds and family-friendly attractions like the barefoot walk and adventure playground. The Monkey Forest is a unique highlight. While some find the garden entrance fee a bit steep, many agree it's worth it for a full day out, especially with the option to re-enter. Seasonal events are particularly popular.

"This is a lovely place for a quiet walk with the family and dogs.
They have Beavers and Otters, although they are very shy and we didn't get to see any.
Lots of little Easter eggs to find and look out for on the walk, which is great for adults as well as kids.
We went out of season, so was nice and quiet.
Very large lake and beautiful gardens.
Definitely worth a visit"

richard nation

"Loved it here! What a brilliant place for a day out with children. We loved the barefoot walk, what an original idea we’d not seen in any other park. Also the disc golf was such good fun. The play area is of a very high standard with plenty to keep toddlers, children and tweens alike entertained for the best part of an afternoon. Ice cream and coffee reasonably priced. We were there for a good 5 hours and still didn’t make it even a quarter around the lake."

Juliana Morris

"What a wonderful place, fabulous weather as well made it a fairytale walk around the man made water pond. Shame that the Ferris wheel wasn't in operation, mini train ride, boat tour 😮😔 lovely kept gardens too (just a shame that the ruins are sitting as ruins and fenced up) amount money making on entrance, could go into a pot to pay towards reconstruction or renovation of this house (even turn it into a greenhouse garden canopy of plants and sell them to the public)"

Lille Chef

What People Like

Beautiful and extensive gardens
Unique barefoot walk
Monkey Forest experience

What People Dislike

Expensive garden entrance fee
Ruins fenced up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Trentham Gardens is located in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Reddit Public transport options include local bus services that stop near the estate. For those traveling further afield, the nearest major train station is Stoke-on-Trent, from which you can take a taxi or bus. TikTok

Yes, Trentham Gardens offers a huge parking space, so you're bound to find a spot. Parking is free for visitors. Reddit

Yes, local bus services operate to Trentham Gardens. Check with local transport providers for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. TikTok

The gardens are generally accessible, with many paved paths. However, some areas might be challenging due to the natural terrain. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for specific accessibility information. Instagram

If coming from Birmingham, it's about an hour's drive. From Manchester, it's also around an hour. The estate is a good stop on the way to or from the Lake District. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Garden entrance fees apply, and it can be quite expensive, so you'll want to spend a good amount of time there to make it worthwhile. Booking tickets 48 hours in advance can get you a 10% discount. InstagramReddit

Yes, booking garden tickets 48 hours in advance offers a 10% discount. Children's annual memberships are also available for £25. Instagram

Once you have your garden ticket, you can enter and exit the gardens throughout the day as you please. Reddit

Yes, the Monkey Forest is a separate attraction with its own admission fee. It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Trentham Gardens website for the most current information on opening times for both the gardens and the Monkey Forest. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Trentham Gardens offers a wide range of activities including exploring the Italian Gardens, walking around the lake, visiting the Monkey Forest, enjoying the adventure playground, and discovering the barefoot walk. There are also seasonal events like Halloween trails and Christmas light trails. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Trentham Gardens is a fantastic family-friendly location with a high-standard play area, the unique barefoot walk, and the exciting Monkey Forest. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens, making it a great place for a family outing with pets. Reddit

These 'Easter eggs' refer to hidden details and fun elements scattered along the walking paths, designed to be discovered by both adults and children, adding an element of surprise to the stroll. Reddit

The barefoot walk is an original and unique experience where visitors can walk barefoot across various natural textures, offering a sensory adventure. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several dining options available, including cafes and restaurants. The Willow restaurant offers all-day dining with lakeside views. Instagram Ice cream and coffee are also reasonably priced. Reddit

Trentham Gardens offers fun picnic locations, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Instagram

You can find a variety of options, from casual coffee and ice cream to more substantial meals at the estate's restaurants. TikTokReddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, most dining establishments at tourist attractions offer a range of options. It's best to check with individual eateries on the day of your visit. Instagram

Some reviews suggest that ice cream and coffee are reasonably priced. Reddit Dining at the estate's restaurants may vary in cost. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Italian Gardens, the lake, the Trentham Hall ruins, and the various seasonal displays (like Halloween pumpkins or Christmas lights) offer excellent photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, the expansive gardens, the large lake, and the surrounding natural beauty make it a great location for landscape photography. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permission. It's always best to check the official guidelines. TikTok

Trentham Gardens hosts spectacular seasonal events, including a Halloween pumpkin trail with themed selfie spots and a magical Christmas light trail, perfect for festive photos. Instagram+3

Yes, you can take photos of the monkeys, but remember to be respectful of their space and avoid flash photography, which can disturb them. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Trentham Gardens is a fantastic choice for families. The adventure playground and the unique barefoot walk are huge hits with children. Reddit Don't miss the Trentham Monkey Forest for an exciting up-close encounter with primates. TikTok+1 The gardens are spacious enough for kids to explore, and there are often family-friendly seasonal events like Halloween trails. Instagram+1 Consider an annual membership if you plan to visit often, as it offers great value. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Couples and Strollers

For a romantic day out, the Italian Gardens offer beautiful scenery and peaceful walks around the lake. Instagram Enjoy a leisurely stroll, perhaps with a coffee from one of the cafes, and soak in the picturesque surroundings. TikTok The Trentham Shopping Village also provides a pleasant browsing experience with unique shops. TikTok+1 Consider visiting during the Christmas light trail for a truly magical evening. Instagram+1

🐶 Dog Owners

Trentham Gardens is a welcoming destination for dog owners, allowing well-behaved dogs to join you on your explorations. Reddit The extensive grounds and lakeside paths provide ample space for your furry friends to enjoy a walk. Remember to keep them on a lead where appropriate and clean up after them. Instagram

🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies

The Trentham Shopping Village is a key attraction for those who enjoy browsing and shopping. It features a variety of independent retailers, including popular spots like the 'One More Bear' shop selling Jellycat and Charlie Bears. TikTok+4 You'll also find cafes and restaurants offering refreshments, with options like the Willow restaurant providing lakeside dining. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trentham Estate

Trentham Gardens is part of a larger 725-acre estate that offers a diverse range of attractions. The Italian Gardens, meticulously designed by Tom Stuart-Smith, are a highlight, featuring formal parterres, a vast lake, and beautiful planting schemes that change with the seasons. Instagram Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks around the lake, taking in the scenic views and spotting wildlife. Instagram

Beyond the formal gardens, the estate boasts the unique Trentham Monkey Forest, where visitors can walk amongst Barbary macaques in a natural woodland setting. TikTok+1 This immersive experience allows for close encounters with the primates, offering a thrilling addition to a day out. The estate also includes the Trentham Shopping Village, featuring a variety of independent shops and cafes, perfect for a spot of retail therapy or a relaxing break. TikTok+4

For those interested in history, the ruins of Trentham Hall stand as a testament to the estate's grand past. TikTok While they are preserved as ruins, they add a layer of historical intrigue to the landscape. The estate also hosts various events throughout the year, from spooky Halloween trails to enchanting Christmas light displays, ensuring there's always something new to experience. Instagram+3

Family Fun and Activities

Trentham Gardens is a haven for families, offering a wealth of activities to keep all ages entertained. The adventure playground is a major draw, featuring high-standard equipment designed to challenge and delight toddlers, children, and tweens alike. Reddit Complementing this is the barefoot walk, a truly original sensory experience that allows children (and adults!) to connect with nature by walking over different natural textures. Reddit

The Trentham Monkey Forest provides an exciting educational experience, allowing children to observe and learn about primates in a semi-wild environment. TikTok+2 During seasonal events, such as Halloween Half Term, the gardens are transformed with spooky decorations, pumpkin trails, and themed selfie spots, making it a perfect destination for family-friendly frights. Instagram+1 The vastness of the gardens also means there's plenty of space for children to run around and explore, making it an ideal location for a full day of family fun. Instagram

Seasonal Events and Experiences

Trentham Gardens truly comes alive with its diverse range of seasonal events, offering unique experiences throughout the year. During the autumn, the estate hosts a popular Halloween Half Term Event, featuring an impressive pumpkin trail with professionally carved pumpkins and various themed selfie spots, creating a spooky yet fun atmosphere for families. Instagram+1

As winter approaches, Trentham transforms into a magical wonderland with its Christmas at Trentham events. This includes a brand-new illuminated light trail that winds through the historic gardens, creating a dazzling spectacle of light and sparkle. Instagram+1 These light trails are particularly enchanting for all ages, offering a festive and memorable experience. Instagram

Beyond these major events, the gardens themselves offer a beautiful backdrop throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant blooms, summer offers lush greenery and pleasant weather for picnics, and autumn provides rich colours. TikTok+1 The estate also occasionally hosts other events, such as outdoor yoga sessions, adding to the variety of experiences available. Instagram