Step into Spring: Explore the UK’s Most Beautiful Gardens in Bloom this March
Hot off the heels of the warmest weekend this year, National Lottery Open Week (15-23 March) gives those who are excited to drink in more spring scents, the chance to experience some of the UK’s most magnificent gardens for free or at a discounted rate. From golden daffodils and lush greens to the vibrant pinks of cherry blossoms and rhododendron across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, here are a few favourites to inspire and entice flora fanatics and nature lovers alike:
In England, the most stunning gardens include:
· National Trust’s Blickling Estate’s formal gardens and sweeping parklands in Norfolk are spectacular in spring with daffodils and bluebells carpeting the woodland paths. While there, you may even see cattle with their calves grazing on the river meadows to the north of the estate.
· RHS Garden Bridgewater in Greater Manchester invites visitors to revel in 154 acres of green space in the largest horticultural project in Europe as the garden starts to stir from its winter months and spring flowers emerge.
· English Heritage’s Belsay Hall in spring breathes new life into the stunning Grade I-listed gardens in Northumberland, with daffodils flowering freely. The Quarry Garden becomes a lush paradise as ferns unfurl and rhododendrons burst into vibrant pinks and purples. The woodland pathways come alive with carpets of primroses and bluebells, making it a truly magical place to explore.
· Stowe Gardens in Buckinghamshire sees spring transform this place into a breathtaking panorama with grand temples, serene lakes, and sweeping lawns surrounded by blossoming trees.
· Myddelton House Gardens in Essex has eight beautiful acres to explore. Owned by Edward Augustus Bowles, one of Britain’s most famous self-taught gardeners, artists and expert botanists, the garden boasts an impressive range of flora and fauna in spring. Also in Essex, RHS Hyde Halls’ Australia and New Zealand Garden is a paradise for exotic greenery native to Australasia returning to lush greens as spring returns.
· RSPB’s Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve offers beautiful views across to the South Downs in Sussex. This family-friendly reserve is set in one of the richest areas for nature in the country. Experience the magic of a springtime walk with the possibility of being serenaded by a choir of warblers or hearing the melodic song of the Nightingale.
· English Heritage’s Eltham Palace in Kent‘s sunken rose garden begins to show early blooms in March, while wisteria drapes over the walls. The moat garden, with its lush planting and tranquil water, becomes a haven for wildlife, and the blossom-laden cherry trees create a picturesque canopy. Also in Kent, spring comes early at English Heritage’s Walmer Castle and Gardens with daffodils and snowdrops emerging across the gardens, the result of large-scale plantings by the castle’s gardeners in recent seasons. The Kitchen Garden overflows with fresh herbs and early vegetables while in the Queen Mother’s Garden, neatly clipped hedges frame beds of emerging perennials, and the scent of spring flowers fills the air.
· In nearby Surrey, RHS Garden Wisley returns to bloom in spring when camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons and azaleas turn the woodland garden into a display of colour. Within this beautiful setting, Garden Wisley’s Glasshouse offers jungle-like wonders where towering tree ferns, soaring palms, lush creepers, and vibrant floral displays create a breathtaking tropical escape. Outside, Battleston Hill Garden invites visitors to wander through winding woodland trails that come alive in spring, draped in the vibrant hues of blooming rhododendrons that line the paths in a breathtaking tapestry of color.
· In the enchanting Rose Gardens at RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon, daffodils start to appear across the garden as it turns into sweetshop of colours where camellias flower in a wonderful rainbow of hues before making way for breathtaking roses.
In Scotland the top 3 gardens to explore this spring are:
· National Trust for Scotland’s Brodie Castle and Estate in Moray, where visitors can wander through the lush gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Sir Robert Lorimer. The gardens come alive with vibrant colours as daffodils, crocuses, and primroses begin to bloom.
· Greenbank House and Garden, just outside of Glasgow, offers a tranquil retreat from the city. The gardens in the care of National Trust for Scotland are a highlight, with a stunning collection of plants that flourish in spring. The Italianate garden, featuring manicured hedges and fragrant flowering plants, is a serene space for visitors to unwind.
· Threave Garden, in Dumfries and Galloway, is another National Trust for Scotland gem and a must-visit for any garden enthusiast. There is a diverse collection of plants, including an array of springtime flowers, while the walled garden, known for its fine collection of roses, starts to come alive as the weather warms. The garden’s focus on sustainable horticulture offers a unique opportunity to learn about organic gardening practices, making it an ideal destination for those interested in eco-friendly gardening methods.
In Wales our top tip is:
· National Trust’s Dyffryn Gardens, a veritable botanical wonderland. Cherry blossoms, rhododendrons, and azaleas paint the landscape in colour, while the formal garden rooms provide a serene setting. There are even a series of events taking place during National Lottery Open Week to help visitors appreciate and celebrate spring, from self-led Blossom Watch walks to learning stations on how to take great blossom photos and creative kits available for those eager to capture the beauty of the gardens through art.
In Northern Ireland, we recommend:
· A visit to Historic Royal Palace’s Hillsborough Castle, Northern Ireland’s royal residence. As spring unfolds, its magnificent gardens burst into colour. The woodlands and meadows are carpeted with snowdrops, daffodils, and bluebells, creating a stunning seasonal spectacle. The Walled Garden, a beautifully restored haven, comes alive with fresh greenery and the early blooms of tulips and cherry blossoms.
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum said: “National Lottery Open Week is the perfect opportunity for people to discover the charm and tranquillity of these beautiful gardens, whether it’s a family outing, or a peaceful retreat. With a diverse range of garden styles, breathtaking blooms, and spectacular views, these gardens are the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring.
“We’re thrilled to bring back National Lottery Open Week for another year, it’s our way of thanking National Lottery players who raise £30 million every week for Good Causes, supporting vital projects in arts, sports, heritage, and communities nationwide.”
Use any retail or online National Lottery ticket, including Lotto, EuroMillions, Set 4 Life and Thunderball or National Lottery Scratchcard or Instant Win Games, for special offers at selected attractions between 15th and 23rd March 2025.
Terms and conditions and booking instructions across special offers will vary, check the individual offer listing for details. See www.nationallotteryopenweek.com for booking details and full terms and conditions
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