The UK is home to some of the most beautiful and educational gardens, making them the perfect destination for families looking to explore nature together. These gardens not only offer stunning landscapes but also provide opportunities to learn about plant life, wildlife, and environmental sustainability. From lush botanical gardens to interactive spaces for children, here’s a list of the best gardens in the UK for families to visit, learn, and have fun.
1. Kew Gardens, London
Why it’s great: Kew Gardens is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world and is a fantastic place for families to explore. Its 326 acres of lush landscapes include exotic plants, historic greenhouses, and a treetop walkway that offers a unique perspective of the garden’s beauty.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The Children’s Garden, where kids can explore nature through sensory play, plant discovery, and interactive activities.
- The Treetop Walkway, where families can walk high above the ground among the treetops and enjoy panoramic views.
- The Palm House, a tropical glasshouse housing exotic plants and fascinating wildlife.
- Regular family events and activities such as gardening workshops and plant hunts.
Learning opportunities:
Kew Gardens offers educational programs about plant life, ecosystems, and sustainability. It also has a Discovery Centre with hands-on exhibits for children to engage with nature and science.
2. The Eden Project, Cornwall
Why it’s great: The Eden Project is a must-visit for families interested in learning about the relationship between humans and the environment. Located in Cornwall, the Eden Project features massive biomes that house different climate zones, showcasing plants from rainforests, deserts, and more.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The Rainforest Biome, where kids can explore a tropical jungle, discover diverse plant species, and see wildlife like birds and insects.
- The Mediterranean Biome, offering a chance to learn about plants from warmer climates.
- The Outdoor Gardens, which provide an opportunity to learn about sustainable living, gardening, and conservation.
- The Indoor Play Area for younger children, filled with fun and educational activities.
Learning opportunities:
The Eden Project offers family-friendly workshops, storytelling sessions, and exhibitions about the natural world, focusing on sustainability, conservation, and plant biology.
3. RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey
Why it’s great: Wisley is one of the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship gardens, offering a diverse range of plants, from formal gardens to wild meadows. It’s an excellent location for families to explore different plant varieties and learn about gardening techniques.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The Garden for the Senses, an interactive garden designed to engage children’s senses through touch, smell, sight, and sound.
- The Play Area, where younger children can enjoy climbing, running, and nature-based activities.
- The Glasshouse, which is home to exotic plants and features a tropical environment that children will love to explore.
- Regular family activities and events, such as nature trails and hands-on gardening workshops.
Learning opportunities:
Wisley offers educational experiences that introduce children to horticulture, plant care, and the importance of biodiversity. It also hosts seasonal workshops focused on sustainable gardening and wildlife conservation.
4. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Why it’s great: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this garden is a family-friendly destination with stunning plant displays and educational opportunities. The Royal Botanic Garden offers interactive exhibits and a chance for children to get close to nature.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The Children’s Garden, where kids can engage with plants, insects, and wildlife through hands-on activities.
- The Glasshouses, showcasing plants from tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates.
- The Woodland Garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll while discovering native Scottish plant species.
- Seasonal events such as family workshops, scavenger hunts, and nature-inspired crafts.
Learning opportunities:
The garden’s educational programs cover topics like plant biology, conservation, and the environment. Families can also participate in guided tours and children’s activities that teach about the natural world.
5. Hidcote Manor Garden, Gloucestershire
Why it’s great: Hidcote is one of the most famous Arts and Crafts gardens in the UK. Located in the Cotswolds, it’s known for its beautiful layout of rooms and outdoor spaces. This is a great place for families to learn about garden design, plants, and wildlife.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The maze and hidden garden rooms that encourage exploration and discovery.
- The natural pond and wildlife-friendly areas where children can spot insects, frogs, and birds.
- The chance to take part in family gardening activities, including plant identification and wildlife observation.
Learning opportunities:
Hidcote offers educational programs focused on the history of gardening, plant varieties, and the importance of garden design in supporting biodiversity.
6. Batsford Arboretum, Gloucestershire
Why it’s great: Batsford Arboretum is a 56-acre site in the Cotswolds, home to one of the largest collections of trees and shrubs in the UK. It’s an ideal destination for families interested in learning about the importance of trees and plant species from around the world.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The interactive woodland walks, perfect for children to explore different tree species and their habitats.
- The Natural Play Area, designed to help kids connect with nature through climbing, building, and imaginative play.
- Seasonal trails and outdoor activities, including autumn leaf hunts and spring blossom trails.
Learning opportunities:
Batsford offers educational programs about trees, their environmental impact, and the wildlife they support. Children can learn about the diversity of tree species and how plants adapt to different climates.
7. Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire
Why it’s great: Westonbirt is a world-renowned arboretum with over 15,000 trees from across the globe. It’s a fantastic spot for families to discover different tree species and learn about their role in the ecosystem.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The Tree Top Walkway, which provides an exciting elevated view of the arboretum and the surrounding countryside.
- The family-friendly trails, offering opportunities for kids to learn about trees and wildlife in an interactive way.
- The interactive ‘Tree Trail’ that guides children through the arboretum, helping them identify different species.
Learning opportunities:
Westonbirt hosts a range of family activities such as tree identification, nature walks, and conservation workshops. Families can learn about the importance of trees in the environment and how to support forest conservation efforts.
8. Stourhead, Wiltshire
Why it’s great: Stourhead is a National Trust garden renowned for its stunning landscape, including a beautiful lake, classical temples, and ancient trees. It’s a peaceful place to explore and offers a range of activities for families.
Family-friendly highlights:
- The lakeside walk, where kids can enjoy a leisurely stroll and spot wildlife along the way.
- The woodland play area, where children can explore and play in a nature-inspired setting.
- The opportunity to learn about classical garden design and the relationship between nature and art.
Learning opportunities:
Stourhead offers educational workshops that introduce children to the concepts of landscape gardening, nature conservation, and the historical significance of gardens in cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The UK boasts a wealth of family-friendly gardens that offer more than just beautiful landscapes. From interactive play areas and nature trails to educational workshops and seasonal events, these gardens provide a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature and learn about the environment. Whether you’re interested in exploring tropical plants, discovering local wildlife, or simply enjoying a relaxing day out, these gardens are perfect destinations for families to enjoy nature together.
