Castle Ashby Gardens
Discover enchanting gardens, a historic Orangery, and a charming menagerie at Castle Ashby, a true Northamptonshire gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Castle Ashby Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover enchanting gardens, a historic Orangery, and a charming menagerie at Castle Ashby, a true Northamptonshire gem.
"A beautiful, peaceful estate, perfect for a family day out with stunning grounds and a delightful zoo."
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Bring your own food and enjoy it on the lawns; it's a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive gardens and woodland paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Enchanting Orangery
Central Gardens
A stunning 1872 glasshouse filled with lush plants, tranquil ponds, and classical sculptures. A true fairytale escape.
Charming Menagerie
Near the Orangery
Meet meerkats, parrots, goats, pigs, and tiny monkeys! A delightful surprise for all ages.
Italian Gardens
South of the Orangery
Explore beautifully manicured lawns and romantic garden designs, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Woodland Walks & Bridges
Connecting the Gardens
Discover hidden paths, an 18th-century terracotta bridge, and peaceful spots for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Picnic Perfection & Animal Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Bring your own food and enjoy it on the lawns; it's a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive gardens and woodland paths.
Check Closing Times 📅
The gardens close at 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
Capture the Orangery 📸
The Orangery is a photographer's dream, especially in soft light.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Bring your own food and enjoy it on the lawns; it's a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
Wear Comfy Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive gardens and woodland paths.
Check Closing Times 📅
The gardens close at 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
Capture the Orangery 📸
The Orangery is a photographer's dream, especially in soft light.
Kid-Friendly Fun 🐶
The menagerie and play area make it a fantastic day out for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castle Ashby Gardens for its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and variety of attractions, from the enchanting Orangery to the delightful menagerie. It's considered a hidden gem offering a relaxing and enriching experience for all ages, though some note the 4 PM closing time.
"First visit here and what a beautiful place. Lovely gardens, lots to see. Friendly staff. Saw a hummingbird moth whilst visiting, so that was a bonus. Cafe in site, and space for a picnic if you want to take your own food."
Tracey Selby
"Absolutely stunning and peaceful estate, perfect for a family day out. The grand tree-lined driveway creates a beautiful first impression, with free parking, clean facilities, and a welcoming tearoom offering drinks, cakes, and light meals on the terrace.
The grounds surround Castle Ashby, a magnificent Elizabethan-style mansion built in the late 16th century, later enhanced with classical architectural features. Its historic presence adds depth and elegance to the entire visit.
A short walk from the entrance takes you to the orangery, built in the 19th century in a refined Victorian Italianate style. Inside, you'll find a tranquil pond with fish, lush exotic plants, and classical sculptures that match the era's aesthetics. Nearby stands the medieval Church of St Mary Magdalene, connected by a lovely woodland path that leads to an 18th-century terracotta bridge.
Just past the bridge, there is a covered observation hut with two large benches and an information panel to help you identify local fish and bird species in the water below.
Continuing your walk, you’ll reach a charming small animal zoo—undoubtedly the highlight for many visitors. The meerkat enclosure is a joy to watch, and you’ll also see parrots, goats, pigs, ducks, and tiny monkeys. After leaving the zoo, the path leads through a lavender-filled alley and loops back toward the orangery.
The full visit takes about two hours, and bringing a picnic blanket and snacks is highly recommended. The grounds close at 4 PM, and entry is £14 per adult, which is well worth it for the history, nature, and relaxing atmosphere. A truly memorable and enriching experience."
Andrzej S
"Visited on a Monday afternoon and thoroughly enjoyrd, walked round with a smile on my face. Beautiful grounds and planting, including orangery, arboretum and menagerie of animals. A cafe serving lunch and cakes at the entrance too. Would highly recommend."
Paul Newland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castle Ashby Gardens is conveniently located near Northampton. Driving is the easiest option, with ample free parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, the gardens are easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of free parking available. The grand tree-lined driveway offers a beautiful first impression.
The postcode for Castle Ashby Gardens is NN7 1LF. This will help you navigate using GPS devices.
Castle Ashby is a great day trip destination if you're near Northampton, Milton Keynes, or Bedford.
The drive from London to Castle Ashby Gardens is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. It's a feasible day trip for those looking to escape the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are typically around £13-£14, with potential discounts for online booking. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and to book in advance.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the entrance, though booking online in advance might offer a slight discount.
While specific concession details can vary, it's worth checking the official Castle Ashby Gardens website for any available discounts for seniors, students, or family packages.
The gardens typically close at 4 PM, so plan your visit to allow ample time to explore. It's advisable to confirm the exact opening and closing times on their official website before your visit.
No, the Orangery is part of the main gardens, and your general admission ticket grants access to all areas within the gardens.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Orangery, wander through the Italian Gardens, discover woodland paths, visit the menagerie with animals like meerkats and monkeys, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Absolutely! The menagerie with its various animals and the dedicated play area make it a fantastic destination for families.
Yes, picnics are very welcome! There are plenty of lovely spots to lay down a blanket and enjoy your own food. +1
Typically, dogs are not permitted in the gardens to protect the wildlife and delicate planting. It's best to check the official website for their specific pet policy.
A full visit usually takes about two hours to see everything, including the gardens, Orangery, and menagerie.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located near the car park offering drinks, cakes, and light meals.
The cafe typically serves coffee, tea, homemade cakes, and light lunch options.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is encouraged and a great way to enjoy the grounds. +1
While specific picnic tables might be limited, the expansive lawns provide ample space to spread out a picnic blanket.
Yes, there is often an ice cream hut available, especially during warmer months, with friendly staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The Orangery is a prime spot, especially with its lush greenery and reflections.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the gardens for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best natural light, creating a softer, more magical ambiance for your photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in stately home gardens to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors and residents. It's best to check the official Castle Ashby Gardens policy on drone usage.
Yes, you can take photos of the animals, but please do so respectfully and without flash photography, which can disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Don't miss the play area for little ones to burn off energy. Packing a picnic is highly recommended, as there are plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy a meal outdoors. +1 The gardens are spacious enough for kids to explore without feeling too confined, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1 The Italian Gardens provide manicured landscapes, while the woodland paths offer a more natural, serene backdrop. +1 Keep an eye out for wildlife, including birds and the occasional hummingbird moth, adding an extra layer of interest for nature enthusiasts. ❤️ Couples Seeking Romance
The Orangery offers a secluded and enchanting atmosphere, perfect for quiet moments together. Explore the woodland walks and discover hidden bridges for a sense of shared adventure. The peaceful ambiance allows for genuine connection and relaxation away from the everyday hustle. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: The Orangery
This Victorian Italianate structure is more than just a greenhouse; it's a tranquil sanctuary. Inside, visitors are greeted by a serene pond reflecting the lush, exotic plants that thrive under its glass roof. Classical sculptures add to the elegant, historical ambiance, making it feel like stepping back in time. Many visitors find the Orangery to be a highlight, describing it as a 'fairytale' escape.
It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or capturing stunning photographs, especially during the softer light of early mornings or late afternoons. A Family Adventure: The Menagerie and Play Area
+1 The menagerie houses a delightful collection of animals, including meerkats, parrots, goats, pigs, and even tiny monkeys, providing endless entertainment for children. Beyond the animals, there's a well-equipped play area where kids can burn off energy.
Instagram reels often showcase the joy children experience here, making it a stress-free outing for parents. With the option to bring picnics and enjoy the open spaces, Castle Ashby Gardens offers a complete family day out that combines nature, wildlife, and fun. Exploring the Historic Estate
+1 The gardens themselves, spanning 35 acres, are a tapestry of different styles, reflecting centuries of landscaping and architectural evolution. Visitors can wander through the romantic Italian Gardens, admire the historic Elizabethan-style mansion (though not open to the public), and explore the medieval Church of St Mary Magdalene, connected by picturesque woodland paths. The estate also features an arboretum with a variety of trees and charming 18th-century bridges, adding to the sense of history and natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit