Background

Hidcote Manor Garden: A Masterpiece of Arts and Crafts Garden Design

Discover the enchanting Arts and Crafts garden rooms and stunning sculptures at Hidcote Manor Garden in the heart of the Cotswolds.

4.7

Hidcote Manor Garden, located near Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire, is a celebrated National Trust property renowned for its innovative 'garden rooms' and Arts and Crafts style. This historic garden features a series of outdoor rooms, each with unique planting schemes, sculptures, and tranquil spaces. Visitors enjoy exploring its diverse landscapes, charming café, and well-stocked shop, all set within a quintessential Cotswold village environment.

A brief summary to National Trust - Hidcote

  • Chipping Campden, Hidcote Bartrim, GL55 6LR, GB
  • +441386438333
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit mid-afternoon in summer to avoid coach tour crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the extensive garden rooms involves a fair amount of walking.
  • Check the National Trust website for current opening times and to book tickets in advance during peak seasons.
  • Don’t miss the sculpture exhibition spread throughout the garden and Manor House, open until early November.
  • Take time to visit Winthrop’s Café for light lunches and the National Trust shop for unique garden-inspired gifts.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Chipping Campden takes about 10–15 minutes via local roads. Parking is available on gravel and grass surfaces near Visitor Reception, with designated blue badge spaces. Campervans over 5m require pre-booking. Parking is free but can fill on busy days.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Chipping Campden to nearby towns; from there, a taxi or a 20-minute walk is required to reach Hidcote. Bus frequency varies, so check local timetables in advance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Chipping Campden and surrounding villages, with a typical journey time of 10–20 minutes. Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, walking from Chipping Campden to Hidcote is possible, taking approximately 45–60 minutes over rural terrain with some uneven paths. Suitable for those comfortable with moderate countryside walks.

National Trust - Hidcote location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of National Trust - Hidcote

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about National Trust - Hidcote

Origins and Vision of Hidcote Manor Garden

Hidcote Manor Garden was created in the early 20th century by Lawrence Johnston, a passionate plantsman and garden designer inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. His vision was to craft a series of distinct outdoor 'rooms' within the garden, each offering a unique atmosphere and planting style. This innovative design approach has made Hidcote one of the most influential gardens of its kind in the UK, celebrated for its harmonious blend of architecture, horticulture, and landscape artistry.

Exploring the Garden Rooms and Sculptural Highlights

Visitors to Hidcote can wander through a variety of garden rooms, including the famous Red Border, the White Garden, and the lush Beech Allee. Each room is carefully designed to create a specific mood through planting, structural elements, and seasonal color. Since 2023, the garden also features a captivating sculpture exhibition with over 200 artworks integrated throughout the grounds and the Manor House, adding a contemporary artistic dimension to the historic setting.

The Manor House and Visitor Facilities

The early 20th-century Manor House complements the garden’s charm and is often open to visitors, providing insights into the history and lifestyle of its creators. On-site amenities include Winthrop's Café, offering light lunches, cakes, and beverages, as well as a well-regarded National Trust shop and a Plant Centre that sells garden-related products inspired by Hidcote’s design. A second-hand bookshop located in the Chapel adds to the cultural experience.

Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Experience

Hidcote is a year-round destination with seasonal changes that highlight different aspects of the garden’s design. Spring and summer bring vibrant blooms, while autumn offers rich foliage colors. The garden’s layout encourages leisurely exploration, with plenty of seating areas and quiet spots to absorb the tranquil atmosphere. Accessibility is supported with level access to key areas, though some paths may be uneven.

Conservation and Community Engagement

As a National Trust property, Hidcote benefits from ongoing conservation efforts that preserve its historic features and botanical collections. The garden is also a hub for community engagement, hosting events and educational programs that celebrate horticulture, art, and heritage. Visitors contribute to these efforts through admission fees and purchases at the café and shop, helping to maintain this treasured landscape for future generations.

Nearby Attractions and Regional Context

Situated in the scenic Cotswolds, Hidcote is close to charming villages such as Broadway and other National Trust gardens like Kiftsgate Court. This makes it an excellent stop on a broader Cotswolds itinerary, combining cultural heritage with the region’s natural beauty. The garden’s location offers iconic Cotswold stone architecture and rolling countryside views, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near National Trust - Hidcote

Popular Hotels near National Trust - Hidcote

Select Currency