Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds are rich in heritage and awash with natural beauty. A number of charming market villages and towns find their home here and parts of the Cotswolds are designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are also plenty of 2-for-1 gardens to visit amongst this celebrated landscape. Whether it be the unspoilt masterpiece of Rousham or the historic glasshouses at the University of Oxford Botanic garden, there is lots to explore whilst making a saving on every trip.
Rousham
2-for-1 garden to visit: Rousham
A masterpiece of 18th Century landscaping – Rousham remains almost completely unchanged since the 1730s. Visit to discover the unspoilt triumph of garden designer William Kent. Previously a painter and stage designer, there is a theatrical flair to Kent’s compositions. Kent softened the landscape at Rousham, with open glades and sweeping vistas. Explore the grounds at Rousham and discover the 17th Century walled garden, pools, cascades, espaliers, formal parterre and even a sham ruin perched on a hill, known as the ‘Eyecatcher’. In Around the World in 80 Gardens, Monty Don describes Rousham as ‘one of the greatest gardens in the world’. Rousham invites you to ‘bring a picnic and comfortable shoes and it’s yours for the day’.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: No
More information about Rousham in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Rousham website for further details
Oxford Harcourt Arboretum
2-for-1 garden to visit: University of Oxford Harcourt Arboretum
Set across 130 acres, the University of Oxford Harcourt Arboretum, which combines native woodland, exotic tree varieties and wildflower meadows, is an idyllic spot for autumnal walks. Visit in autumn to find the arboretum glowing in red and orange, from the gold of the Acer Glade to bright berries along the Holly Walk. The arboretum is also the home to some of the oldest giant Redwoods in the UK, having arrived from California in the late 1850s. You may also discover some impressive non-native tree species, such as magnolias and rare conifers.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshment
More information about University of Oxford Harcourt Arboretum in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Oxford Harcourt Arboretum website for further details
Waterperry Gardens
2-for-1 gardens to visit: Waterperry Gardens
Traditional herbaceous borders at Waterperry Gardens bloom in bright colour from the start of May until the first frosts of early November. Spot local wildlife, otters, king fishers and badgers as you follow the meandering Riverside walk. Filled with secret corners and vistas, Waterperry provides eight acres of ornamental gardens. In autumn, Waterperry celebrates the new season with Apple weekend, which offers the chance to sample the fruit from their harvest and freshly pressed juices. Kids can enjoy the halloween hunt over the half-term holidays. Waterperry is also the home to a plant centre and a tea shop, so it makes for the perfect day out.
- Disabled access: Full access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshment and hot food
More information about Waterperry Gardens in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Waterperry Gardens website for further details
Oxford Botanic Garden
2-for-1 gardens to visit: Oxford Botanic Garden
Founded in 1621, and home to over 5,000 plants from around the world, the Oxford Botanic Garden is a horticulturalists paradise within dreaming spires. Seven glasshouses contain tropical plants, the world’s largest waterlilies and alpine flora. In autumn, find the border in the Lower Garden flourishing with large foliage and extended flowering display. Marvel at the Plants that Changed the World area, a celebration of plants that have altered the course of human civilisation.
More like this
- Disabled access: Full access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshment
More information about Oxford Botanic Garden in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Oxford Botanic Garden website for further details
Painswick Rococo Garden
2-for-1 gardens to visit: Painswick Rococo Garden
Dating back to the 1740s, Painswick Rococo Garden was originally a place of fun and celebration, and continues to be to this day. The garden provides something for everyone. From scenic planted walkways for adults, to the trails, wild art and rustic play area for children, the garden offers a range of joyous outdoor activities and sights for all its visitors. Autumn offers beautiful blooms to be enjoyed, including sedum and cyclamen. As you explore, you will also be treated to views of the Cotswolds hills.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Permitted on lead
- Single visitor discount: Yes
- Refreshments: Light refreshment and hot food
More information about Painswick Rococo Garden in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Painswick Rococo Garden website for further details