Coton Manor Garden: A Timeless English Garden Haven
A vibrant 10-acre hillside garden in Northamptonshire blending historic charm, seasonal blooms, and tranquil woodland escapes.
Nestled near Guilsborough in Northamptonshire, Coton Manor Garden is a captivating 10-acre hillside garden surrounding a 17th-century manor house. Renowned for its vibrant borders, seasonal colour, and enchanting bluebell wood, it offers visitors a lush blend of horticultural beauty and tranquil natural landscapes. Open Tuesday to Saturday from spring to autumn, the garden also features a nursery with rare plants and a welcoming café.
A brief summary to Coton Manor Garden
- Coton Manor Nr, Northampton, Guilsborough, Coton, NN6 8RQ, GB
- +441604740219
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring or autumn to enjoy spectacular seasonal colours and the famous bluebell wood.
- Allow time to explore the extensive nursery with over a thousand plant varieties, including rare species.
- Take a break at the Stableyard Café for homemade lunches and a wide selection of cakes.
- Consider purchasing a season ticket for multiple visits between April and September to save on admission.
- Groups can book exclusive use of the Groom’s Cottage with special menus for a more private dining experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Northampton city centre takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via local roads. Ample onsite parking is available free of charge, but note the garden is closed on Sundays and Mondays except Bank Holidays.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Northampton to Guilsborough, with a journey time of around 45 to 60 minutes. From Guilsborough, a taxi or a 20-minute walk on rural lanes leads to the garden. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Northampton to Coton Manor Garden take approximately 30 minutes and cost around £25–£35. This is a convenient option if public transport is unavailable or for group visits.
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Walking
For nearby visitors staying in Guilsborough, walking to the garden is possible in about 20 minutes over gently sloping rural terrain. Paths may be uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Coton Manor Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Coton Manor Garden
Historic Roots and Garden Evolution
Coton Manor Garden traces its origins to the 1920s when the grandparents of the current owner first laid out the garden. Over successive generations, the garden has been carefully developed and expanded to harmonize with its natural hillside setting. The 17th-century manor house, constructed from mellow Northamptonshire stone, forms the garden’s architectural heart. Its walls are draped with roses and shrubs, while terraces around the house are adorned with colourful pots and containers, creating a picturesque and intimate atmosphere.Seasonal Splendour and Plant Diversity
The garden spans 10 acres of luxuriant borders that burst with colour and interest throughout the seasons, making it a delight for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Beyond the formal garden lies a magical five-acre bluebell wood and a wildflower meadow, offering a peaceful contrast and a haven for wildlife. The on-site nursery boasts over a thousand plant varieties, many propagated from the garden itself, including unusual species that attract gardeners seeking unique additions.Award-Winning Charm and Recognition
Coton Manor Garden has earned prestigious accolades, notably winning The Nation’s Favourite Garden award in 2019, voted by garden visitors in partnership with The English Garden magazine and the National Gardens Scheme. It has also been featured in the Channel 5 series 'Great British Gardens' and praised by Country Life for its vibrant and whimsical floral displays. This recognition underscores the garden’s reputation as a symphony of colour and horticultural excellence.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy the garden from Tuesday to Saturday, typically between 11:30 am and 5:00 pm during the main season from April to September, with extended autumn openings offering reduced admission. The Stableyard Café serves homemade lunches, teas, and a selection of cakes, providing a perfect spot to relax amid the garden’s serene surroundings. Ample seating areas are scattered throughout the grounds, inviting guests to pause and admire the views. The garden’s terrain is gently sloped, with partial wheelchair access, though some paths may be narrow.Natural Setting and Atmosphere
Set on a hillside, the garden benefits from attractive views and abundant water features, enhancing its tranquil ambiance. The blend of formal garden spaces with woodland and meadow areas creates a varied landscape rich in sensory experiences—from the scent of roses to the vibrant hues of tulips and other seasonal blooms. The bluebell wood in spring is particularly celebrated for its ethereal beauty, drawing visitors into a quiet, almost magical environment.Community and Educational Engagement
Coton Manor Garden also functions as a centre for horticultural education through its Garden School, offering courses and workshops for gardening enthusiasts. Group visits are welcomed with special menus and reserved dining spaces, emphasizing the garden’s role as a community hub and a place for shared appreciation of nature’s beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northampton Castle Postern Gate
13.4 km
Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
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King Lear
30.9 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
31.0 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
Earl Shilton Castle
33.5 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Welford Place
33.7 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
34.0 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
34.2 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Council House
34.6 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Sir Frank Whittle
34.7 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
St John the Baptist Church
35.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of St John the Baptist Church in Coventry, a serene haven for tourists and worshippers alike.
Bedworth Water Tower
35.3 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Leicester Abbey
35.6 km
Explore the historic ruins of Leicester Abbey in the serene Abbey Park, a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
National Space Centre
36.0 km
Discover the wonders of the universe at the National Space Centre, where interactive exhibits and the largest planetarium in the UK await your exploration.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
36.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Kirby Muxloe Castle, a serene heritage site perfect for a day of exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Holdenby House
4.2 km
Explore the grandeur of Tudor history, stunning gardens, and rare musical treasures at the majestic Holdenby House estate.
Icarus Falconry
4.2 km
Experience the thrill of falconry and meet majestic birds of prey in the historic grounds of Holdenby House near Northampton.
Cottesbrooke Hall & Gardens
4.3 km
A jewel of Queen Anne architecture set in award-winning gardens, blending history, art, and nature in tranquil Northamptonshire parkland.
Althorp Estate
6.5 km
Explore Althorp Estate, the historic Spencer family home and childhood of Princess Diana, blending grand heritage with serene parklands.
Lamport Hall
8.9 km
Discover centuries of history, classical architecture, and Britain’s oldest garden gnome at the enchanting Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire.
Village Antique Market
12.5 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique treasures in the charming village setting of Weedon Bec’s premier antique market.
Vintage Retreat
13.0 km
Discover Northampton’s vast vintage emporium and charming Art Deco café, blending antiques, nostalgia, and community spirit.
Click Antiques and Vintage
13.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage gems with friendly service in Northampton’s welcoming Click Antiques and Vintage shop.
Grosvenor Shopping Northampton
13.5 km
A vibrant retail and social hub at Northampton’s heart, blending contemporary shopping with community spirit and dynamic regeneration.
0 Market Sq
13.5 km
Northampton Market Square: A vibrant historic market and community hub at the heart of Northampton since 1235.
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
13.8 km
Discover Northampton’s cultural heart with world-class shoe collections, dynamic exhibitions, and engaging events for all ages.
78 Derngate
14.1 km
Explore 78 Derngate, the only English home designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, blending historic charm with modern art and design in Northampton.
Hunsbury Hill
14.4 km
Explore ancient history, scenic trails, and industrial heritage at Hunsbury Hill Country Park, a tranquil green space on Northampton’s southern edge.
Lings Wood Nature Reserve
14.8 km
A tranquil 20-hectare nature reserve in Northampton offering diverse habitats, wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
Weston Favell Shopping Centre
15.0 km
A bustling Northampton shopping centre offering diverse stores, essential services, and a welcoming community atmosphere with free parking.
Essential places to dine
The Kings Head
4.5 km
A charming gastropub in Spratton blending rustic elegance with fine dining and warm local hospitality.
Fox & Hounds Lower Harleston
7.8 km
A charming gastropub in Lower Harlestone blending classic British fare with modern style and cozy country warmth.
The Hopping Hare
10.6 km
A chic and welcoming boutique hotel in Northampton, renowned for exceptional dining and attentive service in a tranquil leafy setting.
Arizi Italian Restaurant
11.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-run setting with homemade pasta, classic dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere in Kingsthorpe.
Hops and Chops
11.4 km
A stylish chophouse in Northampton offering expertly cooked steaks, attentive service, and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
Marseille Restaurant
13.2 km
Cozy French bistro in Northampton serving authentic classics, superb coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere on Sheep Street.
Miller & Carter Northampton
13.3 km
Experience expertly cooked premium steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Northampton, a top steakhouse destination in the heart of the city.
Sorrentino Restaurant in Northampton
13.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian dining in a cozy, modern setting at the heart of Northampton’s Gold Street.
Turtle Bay Northampton
13.6 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and lively island vibes in the heart of Northampton with great food, cocktails, and reggae beats.
Nuovo Restaurant
13.7 km
Experience inventive Venetian cicchetti and contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming setting at Nuovo Restaurant in Northampton.
The Smoke Pit
13.8 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Northampton.
Sophia's Northampton
13.8 km
A cozy family-run Mediterranean gem in Northampton offering authentic Italian, French, Greek, and Spanish flavors with warm hospitality.
Clary's Restaurant
13.8 km
A welcoming restaurant inside Aspers Casino Northampton, known for hearty British classics, attentive service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Saffron Restaurant
13.8 km
Experience vibrant Bangladeshi and Nepalese flavors with a modern twist in Northampton’s lively and welcoming Saffron Restaurant.
Pamukkale Turkish restaurant
13.8 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Northampton’s vibrant dining scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
margo&evie
10.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted curiosities at margo&evie, a charming independent shop in Northamptonshire’s Heart of the Shires.
Heart of The Shires
10.4 km
Discover a charming Victorian courtyard shopping village with unique independent retailers and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
House Of Carillon
10.4 km
Discover elegant ladies' designer fashion in a charming Victorian courtyard boutique at Heart of the Shires Shopping Village.
Beehive Gifts
10.4 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt treasures at Beehive Gifts, Northampton’s charming boutique for all occasions.
It's A Gift
11.2 km
A friendly local gift shop in Kingsthorpe offering household essentials and unique presents with welcoming service.
Its a Gift
13.1 km
Explore Its a Gift in Northampton for a unique selection of presents and cards that capture the spirit of thoughtful gifting.
Bias Gift Shop
13.5 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish accessories, and charming homewares at Bias Gift Shop in Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre.
Next Home
13.5 km
A stylish and practical department store in Northampton offering fashion, footwear, and homewares under one roof with moderate prices.
Singh & Smile
13.6 km
Discover personalized gifts, aromatherapy, and wellness treasures at Singh & Smile, Northampton’s charming boutique for joyful living.
Circus
13.6 km
Contemporary men’s and women’s clothing store in Northampton’s lively Drapery shopping street.
St James Retail Park
13.7 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of stores in Northampton’s St James Retail Park.
Next Outlet Northampton
13.7 km
Affordable fashion and homeware at Next Outlet Northampton, nestled in the vibrant St James Retail Park.
The Works
13.7 km
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MOOCH on St Giles Street
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts and charming home accessories with friendly service at MOOCH on St Giles Street, Northampton’s beloved independent boutique.
Vintage Guru Ltd
13.9 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handmade gifts in the heart of Northampton’s St Giles at Vintage Guru Ltd.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Saracen's Head
7.9 km
A historic and welcoming British pub in Little Brington offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
The Windhover
8.8 km
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Fox & Hounds
10.8 km
A charming British pub in Northampton offering hearty meals, stylish ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Sevens
12.3 km
A vibrant Northampton pub blending sports enthusiasm with quality food and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Lumbertubs
13.1 km
A historic Northamptonshire pub offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming farmhouse setting.
White Elephant
13.2 km
Historic Northampton pub with a lively community vibe, great ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all, including your four-legged friends.
Edge of Town
13.2 km
Lively and affordable bar with friendly service, known for the best bar maid in town, open late in the heart of Northampton.
The Picturedrome
13.4 km
Lively Northampton bar and live music venue blending great food, friendly service, and vibrant entertainment in a spacious, accessible setting.
The Bear
13.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Bear, a beloved pub in Northampton, offering delicious food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
The Charles Bradlaugh
13.5 km
A stylish, welcoming pub in Northampton offering homemade food, lively events, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a historic setting.
The Lamplighter
13.5 km
A welcoming Northampton pub renowned for its real ales, hearty British fare, and vibrant community spirit.
Zapato Lounge
13.6 km
A vibrant, inclusive lounge in Northampton offering diverse British and vegan cuisine in a welcoming, family- and dog-friendly setting.
Shipmans
13.6 km
Historic Shipmans pub in Northampton offers timeless charm, premium drinks, and a refined dining experience in the town centre.
The Black Prince
13.7 km
A lively Northampton pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming beer garden for all to enjoy.
The Fish
13.7 km
A vibrant Northampton pub blending traditional British fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Fish Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boston
13.5 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
Club43
13.6 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
Elysium
13.6 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
The Platform
13.7 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
NB's
13.8 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Stereo Bar and Club
13.8 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
Club Bar X
13.9 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
13.9 km
Energetic nightclub on Wellingborough Road offering lively music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of Northampton.
The Basement
33.7 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
33.8 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The 2Funky Lounge
34.0 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Waikiki Nightclub
34.0 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
34.1 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Mosh
34.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Motto Nightclub
34.5 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
