As enthusiasts of verdant, stunning outdoor spaces, you will find a wealth of beautiful gardens in Cambridgeshire. This county, renowned for its prestigious university and bustling city life, is also a hidden gem of lush greenery and lovely landscapes. From the manicured lawns of Cambridge University to the sprawling rural estates, there is a diverse range of gardens that offer guided tours for your enjoyment. In this article, we’ll delve into the top gardens in the city and country, taking into account visitors’ contributions and reviews from TripAdvisor.
Botanic Garden of Cambridge University
One cannot talk about gardens in Cambridgeshire without mentioning the Botanic Garden of Cambridge University. As part of the prestigious institution, it’s not only a center of education and research but also a place of remarkable beauty.
Walking through the 40-acre garden offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It features a variety of plant species, a glasshouse, themed gardens, and even a lake.
Many visitors rave about their guided tour experience. According to TripAdvisor reviews, the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides provide an engaging and informative walk. In addition, the tour provides an insight into the garden’s history, its current research, and its contributions to science.
Cambridge College Gardens
Visiting the various college gardens within Cambridge University is another must-do when in the city. Many of these colleges allow public access to their gardens, and some provide guided tours.
Among these, the most highly rated on TripAdvisor are King’s College with its stunning view of the chapel, Clare College that boasts a riverside setting, and Churchill College known for its modernist garden.
Reviews highlight the tranquility and beauty of these gardens, with many appreciating the broad range of plant species. The tours offered are praised for their informative and engaging nature, offering an insight into the colleges’ history and their unique horticultural features.
Anglesey Abbey Gardens
A bit further afield, but still within the county of Cambridgeshire, you will find the beautiful Anglesey Abbey Gardens. Managed by the National Trust, this former priory is surrounded by 98 acres of stunning landscape.
The gardens are divided into distinct areas, including a wildlife-friendly orchard, a formal garden, and a wild woodland. There are also a watermill and a historic house to explore.
Reviews on TripAdvisor consistently mention the ‘bubbles’ of different garden areas, the friendly and knowledgeable guides, and the well-kept grounds. The guided tours are highly recommended, with particular praise for their ability to bring history to life and highlight the garden’s unique features.
Peckover House and Garden
Located in the town of Wisbech, Peckover House and Garden is another noteworthy National Trust property in Cambridgeshire. The 2-acre Victorian garden is a hidden oasis featuring a unique range of plant species, an orangery, and even a thatched barn.
The guided tours, according to TripAdvisor reviews, provide a deep dive into the history of the Peckover family, the Quakers who once owned the house, and the development of the garden over time. This tour is praised for its blend of history, horticulture, and storytelling.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
As the largest and most diverse garden in Cambridgeshire, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a must-visit. From the Glasshouse Range to the Winter Garden, the Scented Garden to the Rock Garden, there’s plenty to see and explore.
The guided tour, as per TripAdvisor contributions, is worth every penny. The tour guides are lauded for their vast knowledge and passion, making the tour both enjoyable and educational.
Cambridgeshire, renowned for its prestigious university and rich history, also offers a wealth of garden tours. Armed with this guide, you can now set out to explore the different gardens in the city and the countryside and choose the one that best suits your interests.
Wimpole Estate Gardens
Another gem in the heart of Cambridgeshire is the Wimpole Estate Gardens. This historic estate is owned and managed by the National Trust. It boasts an expansive parkland, a beautiful walled garden, and a stunning Gothic tower named the Folly.
The Wimpole Estate Gardens sprawl across vast parkland and feature a myriad of beautiful landscapes including a stunningly restored parterre, a productive walled garden, a Pleasure Grounds featuring serpentine paths, and a Gothic Folly set in a picturesque setting. The gardens are also a habitat for a variety of wildlife, making it a wonderful spot for nature lovers.
The guided walking tour of Wimpole Estate Gardens offers a fantastic way to learn about the history and the unique features of the place. Visitors on TripAdvisor have praised the knowledge and enthusiasm of the tour guides. The reviews also throw light on the ‘bubbles’ of different garden areas, the tranquil atmosphere, and the well-maintained landscapes. The tour also incorporates a visit to the historic Wimpole Hall and Home Farm, providing a complete experience of the estate.
The Garden at The Manor
Situated in the charming village of Hemingford Grey, The Garden at The Manor is said to be the oldest garden in the United Kingdom continually maintained to its original design. This river-island garden, lying on the banks of the River Cam, is a breathtaking fusion of beauty, history, and tranquility.
The Garden at The Manor is known for its charming rose garden, scenic orchard, and well-maintained herbaceous borders. The garden’s unique plant species, including some rare varieties, add to its allure. Moreover, the Manor itself is a historic building dating back to the 1130s, lending a distinct old-world charm to the place.
According to the contributions by TripAdvisor members, the walking tour of The Garden at The Manor is an enjoyable and informative experience. The tour guides are praised for their knowledge of the garden’s history and the various plant species. The charm and beauty of this garden, along with the informative tour, make it a must-visit for garden enthusiasts.
Cambridgeshire, a county famous for its prestigious Cambridge University, also holds a treasure trove of stunning gardens that offer enriching guided tours. Whether you are a horticulture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a tranquil escape, these gardens have something to offer everyone.
As you embark on these tours, you not only get to witness the stunning beauty of these gardens but also learn about their rich history, unique plant species, and their significance in research and science. A tour through these gardens, as per the subjective opinion of many TripAdvisor members, is an enjoyable and enlightening experience.
In this guide, we have explored the various garden tours in Cambridgeshire, taking account of TripAdvisor LLC reviews, and hope that it helps you choose the one that best aligns with your interests. Don’t forget to check the reviews before your visit as TripAdvisor performs checks to ensure that the reviews are genuine and reliable.
So, without further ado, embark on a journey through these beautiful gardens in Cambridgeshire and take back with you memories of verdant landscapes, fascinating history, and a rejuvenated spirit. Happy exploring!
