Hidcote Manor Garden - people walking on green grass field during daytime
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Hidcote Manor Garden

4.7
·5k reviews·Hidcote Bartrim, United Kingdom

Explore Hidcote Manor Garden, a National Trust treasure featuring innovative 'garden rooms' and a captivating sculpture exhibition.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-afternoon, Summer

Peaceful experience

CrowdMedium
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Hidcote Manor Garden - people walking on green grass field during daytime

Hidcote Manor Garden

Best Time

Mid-afternoon, Summer

Peaceful experience

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Hidcote Manor Garden, a National Trust treasure featuring innovative 'garden rooms' and a captivating sculpture exhibition.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"A truly beautiful National Trust garden, divided into numerous 'rooms,' each equally beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Arrive mid-afternoon in summer to miss coach tours and enjoy a peaceful stroll.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the garden 'rooms'.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Garden 'Rooms'

The Garden 'Rooms'

Throughout the garden

Explore distinct garden 'rooms,' each with unique character and planting. A true horticultural masterpiece.

Sculpture Exhibition

Sculpture Exhibition

Garden and Manor House

Discover over 200 sculptures scattered throughout the garden and house. A delightful artistic surprise.

Lily Pond Area

Lily Pond Area

Specific garden section

A particularly beautiful spot featuring unusual and exotic plants, offering a tranquil escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To avoid crowds, aim for mid-afternoon, especially during summer. Coaches often leave around this time, offering a more peaceful experience. Arriving earlier might mean parking challenges on busy days.

Embrace the 'Rooms'

Hidcote's garden is designed as a series of 'rooms,' each with a unique character. Allow ample time to explore each distinct area and appreciate the diverse planting and layouts.

Best Times

When
Mid-afternoon, Summer
Why
Peaceful experience
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, Spring/Autumn
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidcote Gardens 🍃 // #fyp #foryou #travel #cotswolds #hidcotegardens
@dpc_photography_
314.6K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Arrive mid-afternoon in summer to miss coach tours and enjoy a peaceful stroll. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the garden 'rooms'. TikTok

📍 Hidcote Manor #visitbritain #england #villages #englishsummer
@wander_linaa
32K likes • 124.6K views
Do you recognise it? ✨ Hidcote Manor Garden @hidcotent - a treasure only 15mins drive away when you stay our Broadway holiday rental cottage. Top tip: in summertime arrive mid-afternoon (when the coaches have left) for the most peaceful experience 👌🏻 Save this post as as a reminder📍 #mycotswoldsplace >> link in bio to learn more about us and book a stay 👆🏻 ✨ . . . #cotswolds #visitengland #...
cotswoldsplace
456 likes • 3.9K views

📸 Capture the Beauty

The garden offers endless photo opportunities, especially with the changing light. TikTok

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Scones and tea are a popular choice, with delicious cakes and light lunches available. Reddit

Sculpture at Hidcote is now open! Wander through the garden and Manor House to discover over 200 sculptures – each one a surprise waiting around the next corner. There's far more to see than we could possibly capture here, so why not come and experience it for yourself? 📆 Now open, until 2 November (Hidcote is open 10am–5pm daily, last entry 4pm) 📍 Throughout the garden and in the Exhibition Hall...
hidcotent
218 likes • 5.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Arrive mid-afternoon in summer to miss coach tours and enjoy a peaceful stroll. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the garden 'rooms'. TikTok

📸 Capture the Beauty

The garden offers endless photo opportunities, especially with the changing light. TikTok

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

Scones and tea are a popular choice, with delicious cakes and light lunches available. Reddit

🛍️ Don't Miss the Shop

The National Trust shop here is noted as one of the best, so budget some time (and money!). Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hidcote Manor Garden for its stunning beauty, unique 'room' design, and the engaging sculpture exhibition. The friendly staff and pleasant cafe add to the positive experience. While drought has impacted some areas, the garden's overall charm and horticultural excellence shine through, making it a highly recommended visit.

"Great afternoon visiting these splendid gardens. Every member of staff we met was welcoming and friendly. Drought has been hard in the ground staff, but it looked really great and I would happily visit again soon. Got there at midday on bank holiday Monday, had to wait a few minutes for a parking space, but it wasn’t a problem. Rounded the day off with scones and tea for 2 at £10.20. Great sculpture exhibition on from now to end of season."

Vince Bailey

"Visited when they had a lovely sculpture exhibition in the gardens.

Beautifully maintained property with so much to see, we spent well over four hours here. Great value for money and the photos speak for themselves."

james schofield

"A truly beautiful National Trust garden. The garden itself is divided into numerous "rooms", each of which is very different in character but all equally beautiful. The cafe was nice and serves a good selection of food and drink, including cakes, snacks and light lunches.
Hidcote is a must-see place!"

David Allen

What People Like

Beautiful garden 'rooms'
Engaging sculpture exhibition
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Impact of drought on some planting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hidcote Manor Garden is located in the Cotswolds. It's about a 15-minute drive from Broadway. If driving, follow signs for Hidcote. Parking is available on-site, though it can get busy during peak times. Instagram

Public transport options are limited. The nearest train stations are Honeybourne or Moreton-in-Marsh, from where you would likely need a taxi or local bus service, which may not run frequently. Reddit

There is a car park at Hidcote. On busy days, like bank holidays, you might have to wait a few minutes for a space. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to visit Hidcote as a day trip from London, but it's a long day. It's often recommended as part of a longer Cotswolds road trip. Reddit

Hidcote is close to other Cotswolds villages and attractions. It's a short drive from Broadway and can be combined with visits to other National Trust properties in the area. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary. As a National Trust property, members get free entry. Non-members will need to purchase tickets. It's recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season or on weekends, to guarantee entry and potentially secure a preferred time slot. Check the National Trust website for their booking policy. Instagram

Hidcote is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last entry usually at 4 pm. However, hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to confirm on the National Trust website before your visit. Instagram

National Trust members enjoy free entry. Other discounts might be available for groups or specific events, so it's worth checking their website or inquiring directly. Reddit

Yes, the Manor House is often open for visitors, and it's included in the admission. It's a great way to complement your garden exploration. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Hidcote is famous for its 'garden rooms,' each with a distinct design and planting. You can also explore the Manor House and enjoy the current sculpture exhibition. InstagramReddit

Yes, children often enjoy Hidcote. The winding paths and distinct garden areas can feel like a mini-adventure, and there are often activities or spaces for them to explore. Instagram

Many visitors spend over four hours exploring the gardens and house, finding it a truly beautiful and engaging experience. Reddit

Guided tours may be available, offering deeper insights into the garden's history and design. Check the National Trust website or inquire on arrival for schedules. Reddit

Facilities include cafes serving food and drinks, toilets, and a National Trust shop. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are cafes on-site offering a selection of food and drinks, including cakes, snacks, and light lunches. Scones and tea are a popular choice. Reddit

Picnic areas may be available, but it's best to check with the venue upon arrival or on their website for designated spots. Reddit

The cafes typically offer a range of options, and it's advisable to check the current menu or ask staff about vegetarian and vegan choices. Reddit

Prices are generally in line with National Trust cafes. A cream tea for two was noted at around £10.20. Reddit

While outside food might be permitted in certain areas, it's always best to confirm the policy with the venue. Purchasing from the cafe supports the property. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in the gardens for personal use. However, tripods and commercial photography may require special permission. TikTok

Every 'room' offers unique photographic opportunities. The lily pond area, the structured hedges, and the seasonal blooms are particularly photogenic. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Mid-afternoon can be good for avoiding crowds. Instagram

Drone photography is typically not permitted at National Trust properties due to privacy and safety concerns. Always check specific site rules. TikTok

Photography rules inside the Manor House can vary. Usually, flash photography is prohibited, and sometimes photography is restricted altogether. Check for signage. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hidcote Manor Garden is a fantastic destination for families looking for an engaging outdoor experience. The garden's design, with its distinct 'rooms' and winding paths, creates a sense of adventure that children often find captivating, much like a real-life treasure hunt. Instagram

Encourage kids to explore each 'room,' look for interesting plants and insects, and discover the hidden sculptures. The cafes provide a good spot for a break with snacks and meals. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's plenty of ground to cover, and the varied landscape is part of the fun. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Hidcote Manor Garden is a dream location. The meticulously designed 'rooms' offer endless compositions, from grand vistas to intimate details. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, creates dramatic and beautiful shots. TikTok

Don't miss the opportunity to capture the seasonal blooms, the architectural elements of the garden, and the sculptures that dot the landscape. The lily pond area is particularly renowned for its unique planting and reflective qualities. Be mindful of other visitors and consider visiting during off-peak times for unobstructed shots. Reddit

🌿 Garden Lovers & Horticulturalists

Hidcote is a pilgrimage site for garden lovers. Its groundbreaking design as a series of interconnected 'rooms' by Lawrence Johnston is a masterclass in garden architecture and planting. You'll find a stunning array of plant species, meticulously maintained and arranged for maximum visual impact throughout the seasons. Reddit

Pay close attention to the plant choices within each room, noting how they contribute to the overall theme and atmosphere. The National Trust's dedication to conservation means you'll see a rich diversity of flora. Even during dry spells, the garden's structure and resilience are evident, showcasing the skill of the grounds staff. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Garden 'Rooms'

Hidcote Manor Garden is renowned for its innovative design, conceived by Lawrence Johnston. Instead of a single, unified landscape, Johnston divided the garden into a series of outdoor 'rooms,' each with its own distinct character, planting scheme, and atmosphere. These rooms are separated by high hedges, walls, or changes in level, creating a sense of discovery and surprise as you move from one to the next. Reddit

Visitors often describe the experience as akin to exploring a labyrinth or a series of intimate garden vignettes. From the formal symmetry of the 'Coronation Garden' to the wilder, more naturalistic feel of other sections, each space offers a unique perspective and a different palette of colors and textures. This design philosophy was groundbreaking for its time and continues to inspire garden enthusiasts today. TikTok

Key elements that define these rooms include the strategic use of evergreen hedges for structure, the interplay of light and shadow, and the careful selection of plants to create seasonal interest. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant floral displays or the tranquil water features, the 'rooms' at Hidcote provide a captivating journey through horticultural artistry. Reddit

Sculpture at Hidcote: A Seasonal Delight

Beyond its horticultural beauty, Hidcote Manor Garden frequently hosts engaging art installations. For a significant portion of the year, the garden and Manor House become a canvas for a diverse sculpture exhibition, featuring works from numerous artists. This adds an exciting contemporary layer to the historic setting, offering visitors a dual experience of art and nature. Instagram

Over 200 sculptures can be discovered, often placed in unexpected nooks or prominent positions, encouraging exploration and a sense of delightful surprise around every corner. The exhibition transforms the familiar garden paths into an open-air gallery, prompting new ways of seeing and interacting with the landscape. Instagram

This integration of art provides an extra dimension to a visit, making it appealing even for those who might not typically consider themselves garden enthusiasts. The temporary nature of the exhibition also means that each visit can offer a fresh perspective, with new artists and pieces to encounter. Instagram

Navigating Hidcote with Children

Hidcote Manor Garden offers a surprisingly engaging experience for younger visitors. The garden's layout, with its many 'rooms' and winding paths, can feel like a magical adventure, reminiscent of a storybook. Children often enjoy the sense of exploration and discovery as they move from one distinct area to another. Instagram

While there aren't specific playgrounds, the garden itself provides ample space for children to wander and explore. The variety of plants, the potential to spot wildlife (like rabbits!), and the intriguing sculptures can all capture a child's imagination. It's a place where they can safely roam and experience the beauty of the outdoors in a structured yet adventurous environment. Instagram

Practical advice for families includes bringing comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The cafes offer refreshments, which can be a welcome break. The overall atmosphere is welcoming to families, making it a great option for a day out in the Cotswolds. Instagram

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