
Abbey House Manor Gardens
Explore five acres of stunning, Grade I listed country gardens in Malmesbury, featuring seasonal blooms, art, and a peaceful river walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips in full bloom

Abbey House Manor Gardens
Best Time
Tulips in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore five acres of stunning, Grade I listed country gardens in Malmesbury, featuring seasonal blooms, art, and a peaceful river walk.
"A wonderful hidden gem with absolutely beautiful gardens and many little nooks to explore."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. :dog:
🚶♀️ Steep Paths to River
The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Manicured Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Stroll through immaculately kept flower beds, trees, and shrub displays, showcasing seasonal blooms.

River Walk
Lower garden paths
Descend to the peaceful riverbanks for serene views and excellent photo opportunities.

Sculpture Exhibitions
Scattered throughout the gardens
Discover art installations integrated into the landscape, adding an artistic dimension to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Topiary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. :dog:
🚶♀️ Steep Paths to River
The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Open Days
Look out for special open days with music and refreshments for an enhanced experience. :calendar:
🖼️ Art in the Gardens
Enjoy sculptures dotted around the grounds, adding an artistic flair to the natural beauty. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Bring your leashed dog! Many formal gardens don't allow pets, making this a great spot for dog lovers. :dog:
🚶♀️ Steep Paths to River
The paths to the river can be steep; wear appropriate footwear and take your time. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Open Days
Look out for special open days with music and refreshments for an enhanced experience. :calendar:
🖼️ Art in the Gardens
Enjoy sculptures dotted around the grounds, adding an artistic flair to the natural beauty. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Abbey House Manor Gardens for their exceptional beauty and meticulous upkeep, often calling it a 'hidden gem.' The addition of sculpture exhibitions and the peaceful river walk are frequently highlighted as enjoyable features. While the steep paths to the river and occasional cafe closures are noted, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.
"Beautiful gardens!!!!!! We unfortunately came on a rainy day and were the only people crazy enough to walk around in the rain, but so glad we did. The gardens are so beautiful and kept well. We went during a sculpture exhibition, so sculptures all around site. Would highly recommend this garden, we're hoping to go back when it's sunny."
Alison Williams-Clayson
"What a wonderful hidden gem. The gardens are absolutely beautiful with many little nooks to explore. The addition of a sculpture exhibition throughout the gardens added a lot to the visit. The fact that I could take my dog (on a lead) to walk around was a real plus as many formal gardens won't allow this which is a shame as I love gardens and dogs so this was a fab afternoon out. There is a little cafe but sadly it wasn't open when I visited. I intend to go back. There is a wooded area that again, we didn't manage to wander around.. but again, all the more reason to revisit."
Valerie Lowes
"Very interesting gardens. All parts of the gardens are very well looked after. Nice little cafe. Decent toilets available. You can walk down to the river and there are various pathways down, all quite steep but some less than others. A small bridge goes across the river and there is more to explore on the other side. The tortoise wasn't out in his cage today but probably is sometimes. Lots of fish in a large pond to look at. Can't go inside the house as it is privately owned but can look at it from the outside. Even if you aren't keen on gardening, these gardens are fun and interesting to explore"
Becca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Abbey House Manor Gardens are located in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. While public transport options might be limited, driving is a common way to access the gardens. Many visitors arrive by car, and parking is generally not a problem, especially on weekdays. If you're exploring the Cotswolds, it's a scenic drive from nearby towns.
Yes, parking is available and is typically not an issue, particularly if you visit mid-week.
Absolutely! Abbey House Manor Gardens are a beautiful addition to any Cotswolds itinerary, offering a glimpse into English country charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any specific event schedules.
Admission fees apply for entry to the gardens. While specific prices can change, it's generally an affordable entry fee for the experience. Check their website for current pricing.
Yes, Abbey House Manor Gardens frequently hosts open days, often featuring live music and refreshments. These are great opportunities to experience the gardens.
Yes, dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens, which is a significant plus for many visitors who enjoy exploring with their pets.
Some specific activities, like drawing workshops, might have separate arrangements or fees, even if garden entry is paid. It's advisable to confirm details directly with the organizers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore beautifully manicured gardens, discover hidden nooks, walk down to the river, and enjoy seasonal displays like tulips. There are often sculpture exhibitions adding an artistic element.
While the main garden areas are generally accessible, the paths leading down to the river can be quite steep. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of this.
The house itself is privately owned and not open to the public for tours. Visitors can admire it from the outside.
Yes, decent toilet facilities are available for visitors.
Expect a variety of well-maintained flora, including seasonal flowers like tulips in spring, as well as trees and shrubs throughout the five acres of gardens.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe on-site, though it may not always be open, especially outside of peak season or special events.
Yes, there are several eating locations close to the gardens, including a pub, offering convenient options for lunch or refreshments.
While not explicitly stated, many garden visitors bring picnics. It's always a good idea to check their policy or be mindful of designated areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks offer lovely, peaceful scenes for photography. The manicured gardens themselves, especially during bloom seasons, provide picturesque backdrops.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the beauty of the gardens.
Specific restrictions on drone usage are not mentioned, but it's always best practice to inquire with the venue directly before flying drones on private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🎨 Art & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of English Country Gardens
The gardens are designed to be explored, with winding paths leading to various sections, each with its own charm. From the vibrant displays at the top to the more serene areas down by the river, there's always something new to discover. The inclusion of temporary features like sculpture exhibitions further enhances the visitor experience, blending art with nature in a unique way. This thoughtful integration of elements ensures that a visit to Abbey House Manor Gardens is both visually stimulating and deeply relaxing.
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider visiting during one of their open days. These events often feature live music and refreshments, transforming the gardens into a lively yet still peaceful social gathering spot. It's a chance to see the gardens in a different light and connect with the local community, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Beyond the Blooms: Activities and Experiences
Art also finds a prominent place within the gardens. Sculpture exhibitions are frequently held, with artworks strategically placed to complement the natural surroundings. This creates an engaging dialogue between the art and the landscape, offering visitors a chance to appreciate both. For aspiring artists or those who enjoy creative pursuits, workshops like drawing sessions have also been organized, allowing participants to capture the beauty of the gardens through their own artistic lens.
Furthermore, the gardens are notably dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their canine companions along for the stroll. This inclusivity makes it a more accessible and enjoyable destination for a wider range of visitors, including families and pet owners who might otherwise be excluded from formal garden visits. The combination of natural beauty, artistic expression, and welcoming policies makes Abbey House Manor Gardens a multifaceted destination.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit