Bourton House Garden, near Moreton-in-Marsh

Surrounding a grand 18th century manor house, near the Cotswold town of Moreton-in-Marsh, the three spectacular acres of Bourton House Garden convey a magical atmosphere with beautiful terraces and wide herbaceous borders, featuring fabulous blends of colour and texture. 

Recently described by BBC Gardener’s World’s Adam Frost as one of the best summer gardens he’s ever seen, Bourton House Garden bursts with the vibrant colours of tender shrubs and half-hardy perennials right through to early autumn. 

Bourton House sits in the village of Bourton-on-the-Hill, which edges the Cotswold escarpment. The house, brewhouse, stables and coach house were originally built on monastic lands in the late 17th century. Having been rebuilt a couple of time since, the present incarnation still dates back over 300 years - redesigned by the grandson of a Cromwellian general. 

As you enter Bourton House Garden, make your way through the magnificent 16th century Tithe Ban, which is also the perfect spot for a light lunch or afternoon tea during the summer months. 

The elegant Topiary Walk leads to the White Garden, which blooms throughout every season with flowers such as anemones, penstemon and roses. This is a perfect contrast to the Warm Border on the right side of the house, which is filled with the fiery oranges, reds and yellows of exotic plants, as well as more familiar species. Further herbaceous borders are filled with myriad shades of pink and purple. 

Topiary features extensively throughout the garden and can be seen to great effect in the Knot Garden and The Parterre. The unusual Shade House is a lovely example of those once built by big houses to protect their collections of unusual shade-loving plants. As you enjoy wandering around the garden, various viewpoints open onto the beautiful, surrounding rural landscapes of the Cotswolds. 

Bourton House Garden opens Tuesday to Friday from April to October (excluding Easter). The tearoom opens from May to September. Check their website for opening times and admission charges (cash payments only in April and October). 

Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in the Cotswolds here.

Bourton on the Hill, Gloucestershire GL56 9AE | 01386 700 754 | www.bourtonhouse.com

Images copyright Bourton House Garden