And just like that, the world came to a standstill. Amid travel bans and isolation orders, air pollution in China has plunged, canal water in Venice is clearing and, in Wales, sheep have been spotted enjoying deserted playground roundabouts. The natural world never ceases to continue, perhaps thriving now more than ever. Here we bring you a breath of fresh air through a selection of Britain's best garden getaways - holiday homes with exceptional gardens available for your next escape.
Atelier Rose, Herefordshire
When not kicking back with a glass of fizz in the giant William Holland hot tub at this luxury country retreat, guests will relish every moment spent in the sun dappled gardens. French doors lead to a maze of olive trees and fruit orchards, oozing the sweet appley scents Herefordshire is adored for. The house enjoys private fishing rights too, with a large flat lawn leading down to the banks of the River Arrow (perfect for croquet, sets are included). In true Alice fashion however, the real magic of this vintage wonderland lies in the topiary gardens, where imposing green pyramids bring ancient Egypt to the rural English countryside. For larger groups, book The Sculptor´s Gardens.
Midsummer Wood, Bourton-on-the-Water, The Cotswolds
The 11 acres of grounds surrounding this luxury millhouse invite guests to lose themselves within the beauty of knot gardens, rose arches, apple orchards and enchanting woodland. The owner suggests guests start the day with a jog along the running track that winds around the wildflower meadow, followed by a spot of Pilates by the parterre. The heated indoor pool, however, might give you other ideas (Bucks Fizz and croissants on the loungers anyone?).
Tangle Belle, Helford, Cornwall
Wander deep into the leafy woodlands of The Long Valley near Helford in one of Cornwall’s remotest corners, and you'll emerge through the trees to an enchanted cottage which wouldn’t look out of place in a children's book. Set within a historic family-owned estate, within a mile of Tangle Belle lies a Victorian folly, the highest point on the Lizard, an Iron Age Hill Fort, a river formed by the Ice Age, as well as beautiful 18th century gardens.
Cadence, Petworth, West Sussex
Perhaps not the most obvious garden escape on the portfolio, but this striking modern home has more than meets the eye. Cadence enjoys a pencil thin lawn flanked by sheep-filled meadows as well as sunny patios that run around the circumference of the house. More than this though, guests are given the key to a private gate which leads to none other than the gardens of Petworth House, where the owner grew up. This 700 acre deer park was one of Lancelot 'Capability' Brown's first projects as an independent designer and is arguably one of his finest remaining landscapes.
Felicity Park, Winchester, Hampshire
An exceptionally designed county home, Felicity Park's landscaped gardens are just as thoughtfully put together as its magazine-worthy interiors. Purple wisteria climbs over red brick walls, wildflowers burst in a riot of colour in the suntrap courtyard and manicured lawns make idyllic spots for Champagne picnics. Daringly fun and flamboyantly joyous, Felicity Park and its playful gardens will brighten even the dullest of days.
Rhapsody, Haslemere, Surrey
A utopia of surreal garden sculptures, topsy-turvy architecture and glass-like pools, Rhapsody has fallen head first through the rabbit hole and landed in the heart of Wonderland. Settled in rural Surrey in acres of tiered gardens and private woodland, this exclusive large country house flaunts countless facilities; from the outdoor heated swimming pool to the yoga studio, floating glass reading studio hanging above the crayfish pond and Hobbit-like barbecue hut worthy of any Mad Hatter’s tea party.
View our full collection of secret garden escapes.
