Market Cross, Abbey House, Malmesbury SN16 9AS
Abbey House Gardens is a country house garden in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, England, covering 5 acres. The garden was transformed in the 1990s by the so-called Naked Gardeners: Ian and Barbara Pollard. In 2021 the property was acquired by new American owners, Whit and Kim Hanks.
If you are a fan of gardens and are looking for a unique and tranquil experience in England, the Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury is a must-visit destination. This 5-acre garden is nestled in the heart of Malmesbury, a picturesque town in the Cotswolds, and has been a popular tourist attraction for decades.
The Abbey House Gardens is a privately-owned garden that was originally part of the Malmesbury Abbey. The garden has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, when the Benedictine monks created a garden for medicinal purposes. Today, the garden is a stunning display of horticulture, featuring a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
One of the highlights of the Abbey House Gardens is the Knot Garden, which is a replica of a garden design popular in the 16th century. The Knot Garden is an intricate pattern of box hedges and flower beds that create a stunning geometric design. The garden also features a tranquil river walk, where visitors can enjoy the peaceful sound of water and observe the diverse flora and fauna of the garden.
Another popular feature of the Abbey House Gardens is the Bamboo Grove, which is home to several species of bamboo that tower above visitors, creating a unique and immersive experience. The gardens also feature a series of garden rooms that are inspired by different countries and cultures, including a Japanese garden, a Mediterranean garden, and a Himalayan garden.
The Abbey House Gardens are open to visitors from March to October and offer a variety of events throughout the year, including guided tours, garden talks, and workshops. The gardens also host a popular music festival, which attracts visitors from around the world.
Visitors to the Abbey House Gardens can also enjoy the historic town of Malmesbury, which is home to several attractions, including the Malmesbury Abbey, the Athelstan Museum, and the Abbey House Gardens Tea Room, where visitors can enjoy a traditional English tea and cake.
In conclusion, the Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury, England, offer visitors a unique and tranquil garden experience that is sure to delight horticulture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its rich history, stunning design, and variety of attractions and events, the Abbey House Gardens are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Cotswolds.
The Abbey House Gardens, located in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, England, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful gardens and rich history. The gardens were originally established in the 12th century as part of the adjacent Malmesbury Abbey, which was founded in the 7th century by St. Aldhelm. Today, visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy a range of activities nearby.
Here are some places and things to do nearby The Abbey House Gardens from a tourist perspective:
1. Explore the town of Malmesbury
Malmesbury is a charming market town with a rich history that dates back to the Anglo-Saxon era. Visitors can explore the town's historic buildings, such as the Abbey, the Old Bell Hotel, and the Market Cross. There are also many shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy.
2. Visit the Athelstan Museum
The Athelstan Museum is located in Malmesbury and is dedicated to the town's history. The museum has a range of exhibits that cover everything from the town's prehistoric past to its medieval history and more recent times. Visitors can also see artifacts from the Abbey, including the famous Malmesbury Cross.
3. Take a walk along the River Avon
The River Avon runs through Malmesbury and is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, ducks, and kingfishers. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking along the riverbank.
4. Explore the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is located just a short drive from Malmesbury. The area is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the Cotswold Way, a long-distance walking trail that passes through the area, or visit some of the many villages, such as Tetbury, Castle Combe, and Bibury.
5. Visit Lacock Abbey
Lacock Abbey is a historic building located in the nearby village of Lacock. The abbey was founded in the 13th century and has been used as a location for many films and TV shows, including Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Downton Abbey. Visitors can explore the abbey and its gardens, as well as the village of Lacock itself, which is known for its medieval architecture.
6. Go to Westonbirt Arboretum
Westonbirt Arboretum is a beautiful 600-acre arboretum that is located just a short drive from Malmesbury. The arboretum has over 18,000 trees and shrubs, many of which are rare or endangered. Visitors can explore the arboretum's many walking trails, take part in seasonal events, or simply enjoy the beauty of the trees and plants.
In conclusion, The Abbey House Gardens is a great place to visit for those interested in history, gardens, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the gardens themselves and also enjoy the many activities and attractions in the surrounding area. Whether you want to take a walk along the river, explore a historic abbey, or simply enjoy the countryside, there is something for everyone nearby The Abbey House Gardens.
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