Come into the garden
8th July 2026
Hindringham Hall
Sarah Hardy guides you around 10 of our patch’s outstanding gardens opening all summer long
Hindringham Hall, Hindringham
This looks like something straight out of a fairytale – a gorgeous moated manor house, surrounded by lush, well-stocked gardens. These include a working walled garden, several medieval fishponds and both formal and informal borders. Roses are a particular feature, the Victorian Nut Walk is delightful, and the wild garden is a haven for wildlife, too. Don’t miss the teas in the cafe by the moat where you can simply kick back, enjoy the fragrant blooms and tuck in! Owners Charles and Lynda Tucker are devoted to their garden and it shows. Guided tours are also available and there are holiday cottages on site.
Mannington Hall, Mannington
Another dreamy medieval moated hall – this time complete with battlements – and 20 acres of gardens to explore. They have constantly developed and evolved over the years, with the rose collections being of special note. Wander through wildflower meadows and tree-lined paths to discover historic follies, a Saxon church, a lake and more. The Estate Cafe, overlooking the moat and hall, is packed with cakes and pastries and a changing selection of seasonal treats. There are numerous guided walks, talks and creative workshops, plus holiday cottages.
Houghton Hall Walled Garden, Houghton
The five-acre walled garden has won countless awards and it’s easy to see why. Developed by leading garden designers Julian and Isabel Bannerman, it is split into several contrasting ‘ornamental rooms’, including an Italian garden, Mediterranean garden, rose garden and the Richard Long Houghton Cross Lawn. Look out for both contemporary and antique statues, fountains, a wisteria pergola, glasshouses and a double-sided herbaceous border. This is a real plantsman’s garden – even TV horticulturist Monty Don was recently impressed. The Stables Cafe is recommended and numerous events, including sculpture exhibitions, are held throughout the season.
Hoveton Hall, Hoveton
This charming Regency hall, home to Harry and Rachel Buxton, has 15 acres of garden to explore which include the well-known walled Spider Garden with its very impressive spider’s web gate, made in the 1930s from wrought iron. Take time to wander through the Old Kitchen Garden, informal woodlands and discover lakeside walks, and be sure to visit the glass house and ice house. Lots of events are held in the grounds, and there’s a lovely cafe, Flora, for refreshments.
Holkham Hall Walled Garden, Holkham
The six-acre walled garden, originally laid out by Samuel Wyatt in the late 1700s, is a pleasant stroll from the hall and has been carefully renovated over a number of years. Now, under the guidance of head gardener Mark Morrell, there are many productive areas such as a kitchen garden, an ornamental garden, a vineyard, a cutting garden, a frame yard and, more recently, a maze. Look out for the painstakingly restored Samuel Wyatt Vinery where you can watch the fascinating Holkham Stories experience. And simply be amazed at what is grown – fancy a melon?! There’s a small coffee shop in the garden, otherwise head for the larger Courtyard Cafe for very good salads – and the estate gift shop next door is a treasure trove.
Felbrigg Hall, Felbrigg
The walled garden is the star attraction at the National Trust’s Felbrigg and is beautifully maintained by the garden team and volunteers. There are double flower borders, vegetable beds, trained fruit trees and an octagonal working dovecote dating back to the early 1750s to explore. Look out for old fig trees and the so-called headache tree! There’s also 520 acres of parkland to roam around, including the Great Wood where you’ll find ancient beeches, oak, sweet chestnut and ash and a lake. And the Squire’s Pantry offers first class refreshments.
Blickling Hall, Blickling
Blickling is a jewel in the National Trust’s crown, with 55 acres of formal gardens around the Jacobean mansion. There is something for every season, with much thoughtful planting, that iconic topiary on the parterre, and the 18th century yew hedges on the main approach to the hall. And don’t miss the Doric temple and the orangery with its collection of citrus trees. The walled garden has recently been regenerated thanks to various fundraising activities, and now produces enough fruit and veg for the cafes and estate workers. There are several waymarked paths through the parkland, taking in the lake and the mausoleum, plus there are two cafes, including the dog friendly Muddy Boots! The sweet potato and cauliflower curry pasty is a hit in our house – as is the second-hand bookshop.
Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden, South Walsham
Right in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, there are 136 acres of protected natural habitat, dedicated to conservation, education and wellbeing. There are four miles of marked woodland trails, with the garden’s private broad at the centre. Look out for a 950-year-old oak tree, and many species of wild and cultivated plants. There are boat trips, numerous events and even wild swimming sessions – and a good cafe, too.
The Old Vicarage, East Ruston
The gardens surrounding this 20th century house now stretch to 32 acres and have been lovingly created by owners Alan Gray and the late Graham Robeson for more than 50 years. There is literally a bit of everything, with different ‘rooms’ to visit including a Desert Wash, sunken rose garden, Mediterranean garden, box parterre, sub-tropical gardens and a large woodland garden. Look out for rare blooms, ambitious planting, wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and plenty of Alan’s famous quirky touches! There’s a tearoom, and many guided walks and talks take place.
www.eastrustonoldvicarage.co.uk
The Plantation Garden, Norwich
This city centre garden, now a Grade II registered site, has been lovingly restored by volunteers for around 50 years and it’s almost fully back to its Victorian splendour. Situated in a former quarry, the garden has several key architectural features which give it its shape, including a Gothic fountain, Italianate terrace and rustic bridge. There are well-conceived flower beds, woodland walkways and lots of little idiosyncrasies to look out for. Many events are held and guided tours are available. Enjoy refreshments at The Narthex at St John’s Cathedral, just over the road.
Where else…
Sheringham Park, which belongs to the National Trust, has lovely woodland gardens and a landscaped park – don’t miss the viewing towers and the garden temple. The grounds at Wolterton Hall, including the seven-acre walled garden, are delightful to wander in. Look out for the newly planted vineyard.
Be sure to check websites as garden openings can vary – and they all have their own policies on dogs
