Round & About Magazine

Tag: mothers day

  • Treat mum to a countryside escape in Newbury this Mother’s Day

    Treat mum to a countryside escape in Newbury this Mother’s Day

    Looking to treat mum to an unforgettable Mother’s Day in 2026? Newbury’s charming boutique pub and hotel, Hare & Hounds, has pulled together a full weekend of celebrations to make her feel extra special.

    Families looking to celebrate Mother’s Day in style can head to Hare & Hounds in Newbury, where a full weekend of brunches, afternoon teas, Sunday roasts and overnight stays will take place on 14 and 15 March 2026.

    To begin with, the weekend kicks off with a Mother’s Day Brunch, where mum will receive a complimentary mimosa, Bloody Mary or soft drink on arrival. For those wanting to elevate the experience even further, there’s the option to upgrade to 90 minutes of bottomless cocktails for £38 per person.

    Alternatively, guests can opt for Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and Tiptree preserves, alongside indulgent sweet treats such as red velvet cake and mini chocolate eclairs.

    And what’s Sunday without a traditional roast? Guests can tuck into seasonal dishes specially designed for the occasion, starting with pressed duck terrine, burrata or twice-baked cheddar soufflé.

    For mains, choose from rosemary roasted leg of West Country lamb, dry-aged rump of British beef or porchetta. To finish, desserts include blueberry cheesecake, Belgian chocolate mille-feuille and classic sticky toffee pudding.

    What’s more, tables of four or more dining after 5pm will receive a complimentary bottle of prosecco. Meanwhile, for evening bookings between 6pm and 8pm, kids can eat for just £1, making it an ideal option for families.

    Finally, for those wishing to turn the celebration into a full weekend escape, the hotel is offering a special Mothering Sunday overnight stay package. This includes breakfast and a bottle of prosecco in the room, with prices starting from just £99 per room on Sunday 15 March.

    For more information or to book, visit hareandhoundsnewbury.co.uk.

  • Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

    Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

    From sparkling river cruises and indulgent afternoon teas to hands‑on workshops and soothing spa escapes, here’s our pick of wonderful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day across Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

    Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30th March in 2026, offering the perfect excuse to slow down and show your appreciation.

    Whether she loves time on the water, a decadent dining experience, hands-on creativity or pure relaxation, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to celebrate close to home this year.

    River cruises

    Treat mum to a relaxing cruise along the River Thames this Mother’s Day.

    Enjoy three hours of sailing with Hobbs of Henley, complete with afternoon tea and a ‘Sparkling Lady’ cocktail on arrival. In Bray, choose a two-course lunch or afternoon tea cruise with Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company, while Thames Rivercruise in Caversham offers scenic trips with dining options. It’s a stylish, stress‑free way to celebrate on the water with springtime views in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

    Afternoon tea

    For mums who prefer dry land, there are plenty of indulgent options. Enjoy heritage surroundings at Waddesdon Manor, refined riverside luxury at Cliveden House, or sweeping Thames views with delicate pastries at Danesfield House Hotel & Spa.

    Head west to Wiltshire’s Lucknam Park for a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea with spa add‑ons, or treat her to a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea experience in Surrey’s vineyards with sparkling wine. Traditional finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a glass of fizz make it a memorable celebration.

    Creative workshops

    Gift a hands-on experience with creative workshops across the region. Try a Mother’s Day Bouquet Workshop at Coppa Club Henley or Buckingham Flower Farm, or explore modern calligraphy at Farnham Maltings in Surrey.

    For something crafty, book a candle-making workshop at Bicester Candles & Crafts and family-friendly glass fusing workshops at Wokingham Countryside Centre are also great for little helpers. These shared experiences leave mum with something handmade and memorable.

    Spa days

    If relaxation tops her wish list, a spa day is always a winner. Treat mum to indulgent spa packages at Pennyhill Park, known for its extensive thermal facilities, multiple pools and wide range of high‑end treatments in a luxurious Surrey countryside setting.

    For a truly lavish retreat, enjoy the elegant wellness facilities at The Spa at Coworth Park in Sunningdale near Ascot, set in a Georgian country estate with refined spa therapies and scenic surroundings. Taplow House Hotel & Spa also offers pampering treatments in a serene setting, perfect for a full day of unwinding and celebrating Mother’s Day in style.

    Scenic walks

    For mums who love fresh air, a walk through flowering arboretums and historic forests provides a tranquil springtime escape for Mother’s Day.

    Explore the bluebell trails and diverse tree collections at Winkworth Arboretum or explore the mature woodland trails at Alice Holt Forest – both in Surrey. Meander along the peaceful paths of Harcourt Arboretum in Oxfordshire and stroll among the ancient oaks and expansive glades of Savernake Forest in Wiltshire.

    Dining out

    A classic Sunday lunch never goes out of style. Book a riverside table at The Angel on the Bridge in Henley, enjoy refined dining at The Waterside Inn, or opt for relaxed country charm at The Crown at Bray.

    For mums with a sweet tooth, check out spots like The Pot Kiln in Thatcham and The Great House in Sonning, where indulgent desserts are plentiful. Treats include chocolate custard cream cones, rhubarb sorbet with gingerbread, treacle tart with rum & raisin ice cream, and white chocolate crème brûlée with orange shortbread — all perfect for a decadent finish.

    Family-focused events

    Celebrate Mother’s Day with fun, hands-on activities across the region. Take part in the Roald Dahl Ramble: Matilda’s Mother’s Day Walk in Great Missenden on Sunday 15 March 2026 or explore spring gardens and trails at Cliveden.

    Further afield, treat mum to a gentle Alpaca Walk at Hensting Alpacas in Hampshire, spot rare breed animals at Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park in Buckingham – with mums going free for the weekend – or head to Rumsey’s Chocolaterie for handmade Mother’s Day lollipops.

    Local gifts: Memberships, drinks & artisan hampers

    Prefer something to wrap? Celebrate local makers with artisan hampers from independent farm shops, small-batch spirits from producers such as Henley Distillery, or a vineyard tour and tasting at Stanlake Park Wine Estate.

    For a gift that keeps giving, consider annual memberships to organisations like National Trust — opening the door to hundreds of historic houses and gardens — tickets for Blenheim Palace Flower Show and a theatre membership or gift voucher for venues such as Oxford Playhouse or Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

  • Mother’s Day 2025 at The Ivy

    Mother’s Day 2025 at The Ivy

    Ellie Cox

    The two or three course set menu is perfect for celebrating mums and mother-figures from 28th March.

    This Mother’s Day, The Ivy Collection celebrates mums and mother-figures with a special two or three-course menu, including an exclusive Raspberry Bloom Parfait dessert crafted by the chefs. Available from 28th to 30th March, the set menu features seasonal produce and vibrant flavors, perfect for sharing with a loved one. Guests dining on the Mother’s Day menu will also receive a bouquet of tulips.

    Starters include favorites like French Onion Soup, Classic Crispy Duck Salad, and the new Crab and Avocado Tian. Mains offer a variety of spring-inspired dishes, including Chargrilled Halloumi, Fillet of Sea Bass, and Korean Glazed Chicken. Desserts feature classics like The Ivy Chocolate Bombe, Crème Brûlée, and the exclusive Raspberry Bloom Parfait.

    Two floral cocktails, the Strawberry and Rose Royale and Wild Rose, complement the menu. For those unable to join in-person, The Ivy offers gift vouchers for Afternoon Tea and other experiences, with a Sparkling Gift Card available for guests who wish to treat both themselves and Mum.

    The Mother’s Day Set Menu is priced at £28.95 for two courses and £34.95 for three courses.

  • Make Mother‘s Day Lush 

    Make Mother‘s Day Lush 

    From Thursday 17th March, Lush will be offering an immersive pop-up experience in the lead up to Mother’s Day at Oxford’s Westgate shopping centre. 

    There will be Lush gift concierges and product experts on-site to help customers handpick the perfect ethical gift for every need and guide them through the Lush Sleepy & Spa Pop-Up. 

    Running until Sunday 27th March the activation is just in time for National Sleep Day on Friday 18th March when customers and their mother figures will be able to find a place to relax and unwind.

    The Sleepy & Spa pop-up will host a tunnel where visitors can take a moment to immerse themselves into the space and learn practices to help them feel more calm and grounded. The journey will be an introduction to mindfulness including a complimentary hand and arm massage area for visitors to sit and relax with a Lush Spa therapist who will be teaching self-massage techniques. It’s time to slow down to speed up!

    Lush Sleepy Range and limited products

    Alongside Lush’s popular Sleepy range, customers will have access to purchase a limited amount of the Sleepy Candle, the Sleeping Giant Bombshell that is only available in Lush Anchor shops and Dreamtime Temple Balm, only found in Lush Spa locations. 

    Customers will also be able to purchase vouchers for Lush Spa treatments. 

    Lush Spa Treatments

    Created to transform mind and body, Lush’s luxuriously pampering spa treatments are the perfect way to rejuvenate and revive. With eight Lush Spas to choose from and with treatment vouchers available in Lush shops nationwide, you could say that the Lush Spa is Lush’s best-kept secret.

    Tell us your local news here

  • Delicious chocolates for Mother’s Day

    Delicious chocolates for Mother’s Day

    Make mum’s day with these delicious chocolates

    It’s Mother’s Day on Sunday so why not show her how much she means by making these sweet treats packed with healthy ingredients and love

    DARK CHOCOLATE CHILLI & ORANGE FLOWERS

    Sugar free and vegan

    Prep time: 5 minutes
    Cook time: 5 minutes
    Chilling time: 3 hours
    Servings: 15 chocolates

    You will need: Silicone moulds***

    Ingredients:

    OPTION 1 – COCONUT OIL
    Coconut Oil gives a creamier texture and tends to melt more easily in warmer weather if left at room temp. Cheapest option and easy to prepare.

    • 100 g coconut oil
    • 25 g raw cacao powder
    • 1.5 TBSP xylitol – powdered xylitol sugar alternative ground to a powder in a coffee grinder (available as Total Sweet)
    • 2 tsp orange zest
    • 1 pinch chilli powder

    OPTION 2 – 100% DARK CHOCOLATE
    100% dark chocolate is becoming more widely available in supermarkets and shops. This recipe is mid-price, of the three options, is easy to prepare and gives a nice, hard consistency for finished chocolates.

    • 100 g 100% dark chocolate
    • 1.5 TBSP xylitol – powdered xylitol ground to a powder in a coffee grinder
    • 2 tsp orange zest
    • 1 pinch chilli powder

    OPTION 3 – CACAO BUTTER
    Cacao Butter is more expensive and harder to source (health shop or buy online) but can be kept in the freezer and melted down as needed. Best bought in button-sized pieces for ease of using the quantity needed. Gives a harder consistency than coconut oil for the chocolates once prepared.

    • 100 g cacao butter
    • 25 g dark cocoa powder
    • 1.5 TBSP xylitol – powdered xylitol ground to a powder in a coffee grinder
    • 2 tsp orange zest
    • 1 pinch chilli powder

    Method:

    1. For all options, begin by melting the Coconut Oil / Dark Chocolate / Cacao Butter in a bain-marie (place a bowl over the top of a pan which has two inches of water in it. Heat the water over a medium heat until the ingredients have melted, stirring continuously. Do not allow the bowl to touch the water.

    2. Once the coconut oil / dark chocolate / cacao butter has melted, remove the bowl from the pan and turn off the heat. Place the bowl on a heat proof surface and stir in the raw cacao or dark cocoa powder (NB: you do not need to add chocolate to the 100% dark chocolate option).

    3. Next, add the powdered xylitol and a pinch of chilli powder and stir until combined.

    4. Place the chocolate silicon mould on to a moveable flat surface (a baking tray or chopping board works well).

    5. Sprinkle a small amount of orange zest into each mould.

    6. Now spoon the chocolate mixture on top until each mould is full.

    7. Leave to set in the fridge for a few hours before removing each chocolate from its mould and storing in a suitable airtight container.

    8. It is best to eat these within 4 days of making them (not that they will last that long) as the chocolate can start to crystallise after then.

    SUPERFOOD TRUFFLES

    These little chocolate nuggets are supercharged with chlorella to energise the body. A perfect healthy treat for this Mother’s Day.

    Preparation time: 10 minutes
    Chilling time: 4 hours
    Makes: 16 truffles

    Ingredients:

    • 115g cashew nut butter or tahini
    • 60g maple syrup
    • 2tbsp cacao powder
    • 60g melted dark chocolate
    • 60g dried cranberries or cherries
    • Pinch of sea salt
    • 1tsp vanilla extract
    • 1tsp Sun Chlorella powder
    • 30g shelled hemp seeds

    Method:

    1. Place the cashew nut butter, maple syrup, cacao powder and melted chocolate in a food processor and combine. Add the remaining ingredients and process to form a dough. Chill in the fridge for several hours until firm enough to roll into balls.

    2. When the mixture is firm use a spoon to scoop out walnut size balls. Roll into balls and place on a sheet of baking parchment. Roll the truffles in a little shredded coconut or dust with cacao powder.

    Every Mum is sure to love these treats for Mother’s Day – and there’s nothing quite like a homemade gift (especially an edible one!)

    See more of our recipes here

  • Treehouse run

    Treehouse run

    On your marks, get set for the sixth Treehouse 10k in Cholsey on Sunday – there’s a run for everyone and how about making it a real family affair as it’s Mother’s Day? 

    In addition to the 10k, there’s a 5k run and the Family Bunny Run. Both the 10k and 5k cover a course that includes a mix of quiet roads, farm tracks and footpaths around the village. 

    All finishers will receive an event T-shirt and hand-made wooden medal with trophies given to each category winner. 

    The Family Bunny Run is open to families/children under 16 and is just half a kilometre around the recreation ground – participants can decide how many loops they want to compete. As it’s so near to Easter why not add bunny ears or a tail to your outfit? 

    Last year runners were challenged to run with a Stormtrooper, this year you’ll be turning to the “dark side” and taking on Darth Vader. 

    And as it’s Mother’s Day, Round & About columnist Christine Wallace from the Great British Bake Off will be starting the 5k and 10k races before holding a cake decorating demonstration in the pavilion and answering your baking questions. Her cake will then be raffled off for a mum to enjoy. 

    Online registration at a reduced rate ends at midday tomorrow (Wednesday, 27th March) but you can register on the day between 8am and 9am. 

    To register and for more information for the run go to www.treehouse10k.org.uk 

  • Thames Valley: Glorious Gardens

    Thames Valley: Glorious Gardens

    With spring bursting into life, there can be no better time to get out and enjoy what’s on offer in some of the finest gardens you’re ever likely to see.

    Stowe

    (near Buckingham, MK18 5EQ)
    Cyclamen and aconites abound this year in Easter shades of purple and yellow and there’s the promise of bright bluebells after 125,000 were planted in October. The bell-shaped blooms of the Snakeshead fritillary will be bowing their heads in April-May after 200,000 were planted in a swathe around the property – set to form one of the few Snakeshead fritillary meadows in the country.

     

    Cliveden

    (near Maidenhead, SL1 8NS)
    The six-acre parterre is bursting at the seams with 21,000 spring bedding plants filling the 16 central triangular beds. Elsewhere, 11,000 polyanthus will create a carpet of colour combining with the box hedging and topiary of this unique garden. The oriental inspired water garden is awash with dusky pink of flowering blossom and creamy-white magnolias forming stunning reflections in the water.

    Basildon Park

    (near Reading, RG8 9NR)
    Yellow is the predominant colour at Basildon with the grounds sprayed with buttercups and daffodils. Choose one of the four paths to walk and admire violets, cowslip, cherry blossom and primroses. Further on you’ll find a sea of bluebells leaving you spoilt for choice when it comes to taking photographs.

     

    The Vyne

    (near Basingstoke, RG24 9HL)
    The wild garden is where it’s at for The Vyne this season – from bright yellow aconites under trees to boughs of soft pink cherry blossom on the trees. Pastel blue takes over next month with star-shaped blooms of camassias and of course, plenty of bluebells to charm you too.

     

    Waddesdon

    (near Aylesbury, HP18 0JH)
    The garden is beginning to wake from its winter sleep and colour is creeping into the spring displays. Nearly 40,000 plants will be used to recreate the Victorian splendour of yesteryear. Each area has its own colour scheme – the parterre will be blue, white and pink; the avenue will be bathed in delicate shades of yellow and white, planted in the shape of a star.

     

    Nuffield Place

    (near Henley, RG9 5RY)
    The perfect spot for a peaceful spring stroll surrounded by herbaceous borders with spring bulbs breaking through and light mauve wisteria around the house. Foxgloves are starting to appear in the woodland, attracting insects and a hard-standing path means everyone can admire the bluebells.

    hughendon

    (near High Wycombe, HP14 4LA)
    Visitors here will be able to wander through the handkerchief-like blooms of magnolia, frost permitting, admist the purple pink hues of dog tooth violets, blue forget me knots and bright pink of the Judas tree. Later in spring expect to see grape-like hyacinth while the walled garden will be brimming with the smells of cherry, apple, redcurrants and gooseberries.

     

    Greys Court

    (near Henley, RG9 4PG)
    The woodland floor as been cleared ready for spring with thousands of bulbs being planted to form a blue carpet along the path to Spinney Wood to admire the daffodils, cowslips and irises. Follow the nut tree walk to the maze to enjoy a patchwork of colour with bulbs planted in a quilt-like fashion. Wander around the walled garden to find hyacinths under the 130-year-old wisteria and watch cherry blossom fall on the paths.

     

    Harcourt Arboretum

    (Nuneham Courtenay, OX44 9PX)
    The arboretum is part of the University of Oxford which has now grown to 130 acres and is part of the Botanic Garden. The oldest part, the Pinetum and Serpentine Ride is soon to be awash with the dramatic colours of rhododendrons and azaleas while a walk in the native woodland will showcase the different types of woodland in the UK and will be carpeted with bluebells in April and May.

     

    Kelmscott Manor Gardens

    (near Lechlade, GL7 3HJ)
    The arts and crafts garden is well worth a wander round when you’re visiting the house. The front garden is laid out from the drawing of the frontispiece in a William Morris book, the original owner, while the back is dominated by a mulberry tree which is just under 100 years old. A small orchard and a large meadow are delightful places to enjoy a spring stroll.

     

    Buscot Park

    (near Faringdon, SN7 8BU)
    The pleasure gardens here are just that – a pleasure and time should be taken to enjoy them. The red brick walls of the original kitchen garden shelter the Four Seasons garden, resplendent with spring blooms. Woodland walks lead to a fine water garden while the front of the house features a carriage drive through mature woodland.

    Pictures: National Trust

    Have a look at our London and Surrey gardens if you’re thinking of going further afield

  • London: Glorious Gardens

    London: Glorious Gardens

    With spring bursting into life, there can be no better time to get out and enjoy what’s on offer in some of the finest gardens you’re ever likely to see.

    savill gardens

    (Englefield Green, TW20 0UJ)
    Everything is coming to life, pay a visit to daffodil valley in The Valley Gardens and Spring Wood at the Savill Garden and marvel at the magnolias, rhododendrons and azaleas. Birds are nesting so watch out for fledglings as they start to take flight. You may even be lucky enough to see young deer taking their first steps in Deer Park too.

     

    Cliveden

    (near Maidenhead, SL1 8NS)
    The six-acre parterre is bursting at the seams with 21,000 spring bedding plants filling the 16 central triangular beds. Elsewhere, 11,000 polyanthus will create a carpet of colour combining with the box hedging and topiary of this unique garden. The oriental inspired water garden is awash with dusky pink of flowering blossom and creamy-white magnolias forming stunning reflections in the water.

    Basildon Park

    (near Reading, RG8 9NR)
    Yellow is the predominant colour at Basildon with the grounds sprayed with buttercups and daffodils. Choose one of the four paths to walk and admire violets, cowslip, cherry blossom and primroses. Further on you’ll find a sea of bluebells leaving you spoilt for choice when it comes to taking photographs.

     

    runnymede & ankerwycke

    (near Old Windsor, SL4 2JL)
    As nature awakens, a flush of new life spreads over the historic hills and waters of Runnymede. Riverside willows are the first to put on their springtime greenery. Blackthorn blossom helps create a sense of new life all along the riverside. Spring arrives in the form of ancient woodland flowers. Patches of bluebells, lesser celandines, dog’s mercury and wood anemones create a magical atmosphere in the protected woodland.

     

    dorneywood garden

    (near Burnham, SL1 8PY)
    1930s-style garden, with herbaceous borders, cottage garden and lily pond. Dorneywood is traditionally the country residence of a senior member of the Government and was given to the National Trust. The house re-opens in April. Booking essential if you wish to visit. Email dorneywood@nationaltrust.org.uk

     

    claremont

    (near Esher, KT10 9JG)
    Spring offers the chance to stroll through corridors of rhododendrons, feed tiny goslings, and make the most of the longer days, spot swathes of these regal purple flowers springing up throughout the garden. Take a stroll along the lake and up past the ha-ha wall during April to witness the seasonal display of bluebells at its very best. Swathes of daffodils first herald the new season, with camellias, cherries, azaleas and rhododendrons soon following suit.

    hatchlands park

    (near Guildford, GU4 7RT)
    From blossom to bluebells, the grounds here are coming out of their winter hibernation and as with other properties are awash with yellows and blues. The woodland hedgerows are lit up with blackthorn blossom while later in the spring expect to see the wildflower meadow in full bloom just as the bluebell wood is going over.

     

    clandon park

    (near Guildford, GU4 7RQ)
    As the rebuilding process continues after the devastating fire in April 2015, visitors can enjoy the magnificent sight of the park in springtime with the grounds carpeted in yellow. A pictorial trail will guide you through the garden, using historic images to take you through the years comparing past and present perspectives.

     

    Polesden lacey

    (near Dorking, RH5 6BD)
    Prepare to be greeted by delicate white snowdrops, trumpet-like daffodils in all shades of yellow, orange and cream and bluebells at Polesden Lacey and the wider estate. Enjoy walks surrounded by colour whatever the weather.

     

    old waterfield

    (Ascot, SL5 7LJ)
    Operating as part of the National Open Garden Scheme, this house is set in four acres between Ascot Heath and Windsor Great Park. Open from 1st April to 31st October, the garden has been developed and extended over the past few years and offers herbaceous borders, meadow with specimen trees, large vegetable garden, orchard and mixed hedging. Vistors are welcome by arrangement for groups of 10 to 25. Admission £4.50 adults, children free. For more information contact the owner Catherine Stevenson at catherine.stevenson@oldwaterfield.com

    Pictures: National Trust

    Have a look at our Thames Valley and Surrey gardens if you’re thinking of going further afield

  • Surrey: Glorious Gardens

    Surrey: Glorious Gardens

    With spring bursting into life, there can be no better time to get out and enjoy what’s on offer in some of the finest gardens you’re ever likely to see.

    Polesden lacey

    (near Dorking, RH5 6BD)
    Prepare to be greeted by delicate white snowdrops, trumpet-like daffodils in all shades of yellow, orange and cream and bluebells at Polesden Lacey and the wider estate. Enjoy walks surrounded by colour whatever the weather.

     

    hatchlands park

    (near Guildford, GU4 7RT)
    From blossom to bluebells, the grounds here are coming out of their winter hibernation and as with other properties are awash with yellows and blues. The woodland hedgerows are lit up with blackthorn blossom while later in the spring expect to see the wildflower meadow in full bloom just as the bluebell wood is going over.

    Winkworth arboretum

    (Godalming, GU8 4AD)
    This is a true paradise for garden lovers as the arboretum really comes to life in spring with magnolia blooms joining cherry blossom and drifts of bluebells. If you’re visiting in April, the azalea walk is a mass of colour along the path to the boathouse overlooking the lake.

     

    clandon park

    (near Guildford, GU4 7RQ)
    As the rebuilding process continues after the devastating fire in April 2015, visitors can enjoy the magnificent sight of the park in springtime with the grounds carpeted in yellow. A pictorial trail will guide you through the garden, using historic images to take you through the years comparing past and present perspectives.

     

    leith hill

    (near Dorking, RH5 6LU)
    Rhododendron Wood will be alight with azaleas as well as rhododendrons, expect to see bush after bush of the big showy flowers. The rare, pink flowers are a sign spring is here. Other specimens will be showing their colours from April through to June. The hour-long Rhododendron Wood walk is an easy pathway through the colourful surroundings.

     

    RHS garden wisley

    (Woking, GU23 6QB)
    Colour builds daily at Wisley, yellow daffodils and pale pink cherry blossom are already providing the perfect backdrop for a walk in the gardens. Carpets of crocuses will brighten up even the chilliest of days and the bright pinks and reds of the banks of camellias are sure to catch your eye on the hill. The top terrace will be lit up with 15,000 tulips in pink, purple, yellow and lilac.

    ramster gardens

    (Chiddingfold, GU8 4SN)
    Opening in spring from 16th March, you can discover more than 25 acres of woodland, lake views and hillside, filled with colour. The gardens are known for their rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias as well as many rare and unusual trees and flowering shrubs.

     

    painshill

    (Cobham, KT11 1JE)
    All the lengthy preparation for spring has paid off and the gardens at Painshill are now waking up to swathes of snowdrops, dazzling daffodils and beautiful bluebells. As with many of the gardens featured, Painshill will be offering afternoon tea for Mother’s Day. Enjoy this in the 18th century walled garden amid seasonal colours as you tuck into finger sandwiches, mini scones, cakes and tea or Prosecco.

     

    savill gardens

    (Englefield Green, TW20 0UJ)
    Everything is coming to life, pay a visit to daffodil valley in The Valley Gardens and Spring Wood at the Savill Garden and marvel at the magnolias, rhododendrons and azaleas. Birds are nesting so watch out for fledglings as they start to take flight. You may even be lucky enough to see young deer taking their first steps in Deer Park too.

     

    petworth

    (West Sussex, GU28 9LR)
    In the spring meadows of the Pleasure Grounds you can expect to see snowdrops, cyclamen as well as bluebells, daffodils, and Snake Head Fritillary popping up through the next few months.Tulips will be one of the stars of the show throughout the grounds with thier distinctive bell-shaped heads popping up a variety of colours.

     

    gilbert white house

    (Selbourne, GU34 3JH )
    Visitors to this secret Hampshire garden can marvel at the quirky features, glorious vistas and creative planting which are delightful whatever the season or weather but spring really is spectacular! Starting off with snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils in March, cherry blossom in April and a sumptuous wildflower meadow in May, they are the perfect complement to the hahas, herb garden, kitchen garden and six quarters.

    Pictures: National Trust

    Have a look at our London and Thames Valley gardens if you’re thinking of going further afield.

  • Glorious Gardens

    Glorious Gardens

    With spring bursting into life, there can be no better time to get out and enjoy what’s on offer in some of the finest gardens you’re ever likely to see.

    The bright patches of colour showing through after the grey of winter are a welcome sight, guaranteed to raise the spirits and none more so than those offered from the beautiful gardens in the area. Carpets of seasonal snowdrops and daffodils cover much of the grounds with swathes of blooms in all hues just beginning to break through.

    CHOOSE YOUR AREA:

    Pictures: National Trust