More than 3,500 UK gardens open through the National Garden Scheme, National Trust and English Heritage. Choices range from Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent to the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The main visiting season runs from April to September. Check opening dates before travelling because many privately owned gardens open for only one or two days each year.
Key takeaways
- The National Garden Scheme opens over 3,500 private gardens each year
- Sissinghurst, Great Dixter, and Hidcote are among the most visited UK gardens
- April to June is peak season for spring borders and bluebell displays
- Many open gardens charge just £5-£10 with proceeds going to charity
- Kew Gardens has over 50,000 living plants across 132 hectares
- Scotland's Crarae and Inverewe gardens are worth the journey north
open gardens garden visits UK gardens National Garden Scheme garden days out
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
