East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden: A Hidden Norfolk Botanical Treasure
Explore 32 acres of themed gardens blending exotic plants and tranquil woodland near Norfolk’s coast, with expert tours and a charming tea room.
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden is a captivating 32-acre modern garden near Norwich, Norfolk, featuring diverse themed garden rooms including herbaceous borders, Mediterranean gardens, a sunken rose garden, and a desert wash. Open March to October, it offers a unique blend of exotic and native plants, woodland areas, and a welcoming tea room, making it a must-visit for garden lovers seeking tranquility and botanical variety.
A brief summary to East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
- East Ruston Old Vicarage, Vicarage Rd, Norwich, NR12 9HN, GB
- +441692650432
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit between March and October on Wednesdays to Sundays and bank holidays, from 12 pm to 5:30 pm, for full garden access.
- Don’t miss the guided tours by Alan Gray for expert insights and fascinating stories about the garden’s plants.
- Enjoy a break at the tea room offering indoor and outdoor seating with teas, coffee, and homemade cakes.
- Bring a camera for the many photogenic spots, including the sunken rose garden and Desert Wash.
- Purchase plants propagated on-site to take home a piece of the garden’s unique botanical collection.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Norwich, take the A149 towards Stalham, then turn onto the B1159 minor road signposted Walcott and Bacton. After approximately 3.5 miles, the garden is located next to East Ruston Church. Parking is available on-site, including coach parking. The journey typically takes 40-50 minutes. Note that some rural roads are narrow.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest railway stations are Wroxham and North Walsham, each about 7 miles from the garden. From either station, a taxi ride of approximately 15-20 minutes can reach the garden. Taxi fares typically range from £20 to £30.
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Bus and Walk
Local bus services connect Norwich to nearby villages, but public transport to East Ruston is limited. Visitors can take a bus to Stalham or nearby villages and then walk or take a taxi for the remaining 2-3 miles. Walking involves rural terrain and may not be suitable for all visitors.
East Ruston Old Vicarage 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 East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
A Garden of Surprises in Norfolk’s Prairie Landscape
Nestled near the Norfolk coast, East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden spans 32 acres of creatively designed garden rooms that contrast strikingly with the surrounding open prairie landscape. This garden is a sanctuary of lush greenery and exotic plants, offering a sheltered oasis where visitors can wander through a series of distinct areas, each with its own character and plant collections. The garden’s layout encourages exploration, with winding paths leading through herbaceous borders, gravel gardens, and sub-tropical zones that reveal new delights at every turn.Diverse Botanical Collections and Themed Gardens
The garden boasts a remarkable variety of themed spaces, including a Mediterranean garden rich with aromatic herbs and sun-loving plants, a Desert Wash showcasing impressive xerophytic species like Yuccas and Dasylirions, and a mature Diamond Jubilee Walled Garden filled with fragrant roses. Visitors can also enjoy a box parterre, a sunken rose garden, and a large woodland garden that adds depth and shade to the landscape. The Alitex greenhouse hosts seasonal displays ranging from spring bulbs to old-fashioned pelargoniums, providing year-round botanical interest.Engaging Experiences and Horticultural Expertise
East Ruston Old Vicarage is not only a place to admire plants but also a hub for horticultural education and enjoyment. Alan Gray, a well-known gardening expert and BBC Radio Norfolk contributor, offers guided tours throughout the year, sharing insights and stories behind the garden’s diverse flora. His passion for gardening is reflected in the garden’s dynamic plantings and the enthusiasm with which visitors are encouraged to engage with the natural world.Visitor Amenities and Seasonal Access
The garden is open from March through October, Wednesdays to Sundays and on bank holidays, from 12 pm to 5:30 pm. Admission is £14.50 for adults and £2 for children aged 3-14, with season tickets available for frequent visitors. The on-site tea room provides a cozy spot to enjoy light refreshments and homemade cakes, with indoor and outdoor seating. Plant sales offer visitors the chance to take home some of the garden’s propagated treasures. Accessibility features include disabled toilets and easy paths, making the garden welcoming to a broad range of visitors.Setting and Surroundings
Located off the A149 near Stalham, the garden is adjacent to East Ruston Church, adding a historic backdrop to the botanical experience. The surrounding Norfolk countryside offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a day of relaxation and discovery. While dogs are not permitted in the garden, the environment is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.A Living Legacy of Botanical Passion
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden stands as a testament to the joy and diversity of gardening, blending exotic and native species in a way that surprises and delights. Its ongoing development and care reflect a deep commitment to horticultural excellence and visitor engagement, making it a cherished destination for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
TourNorfolk
6.6 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Potter Heigham bridge
11.7 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
Wroxham Bridge
12.6 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Faircraft Loynes
12.8 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
VisitNorwich
23.8 km
Discover Norwich Cathedral’s soaring Norman spire, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters nestled in a vast historic sanctuary.
Pull's Ferry
23.9 km
A tranquil 15th-century watergate and ferry house on Norwich’s River Wensum, blending rich medieval history with scenic riverside charm.
Baconsthorpe Castle
26.3 km
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a 15th-century fortified manor, once home to the powerful Heydon family of Norfolk.
Pudding tower
26.3 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
War Memorial
26.7 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
The South East Tower
27.1 km
Stay inside a beautifully restored medieval tower overlooking Great Yarmouth’s historic town and sea.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
27.1 km
Step into Great Yarmouth’s maritime past at the Time and Tide Museum, where history comes alive in a restored Victorian herring curing works.
Medieval Town Wall
27.2 km
Explore England’s second most complete medieval town wall, a mile-long historic fortress with surviving towers and rich maritime heritage.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
27.2 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s historic medieval town walls—England’s longest intact coastal defense, now a tranquil open space rich with heritage.
Great Yarmouth Beach
27.2 km
Experience the lively charm and sandy stretches of Great Yarmouth Beach, Norfolk’s iconic seaside playground with piers, amusements, and tranquil dunes.
Merrivale Model Village
27.6 km
Step into a whimsical world of miniature wonders, where every corner holds a surprise and the magic of the English countryside comes to life in miniature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Happisburgh Owls
2.2 km
Discover a magical, hands-on owl sanctuary experience in tranquil Norfolk, where education and conservation come alive through close encounters.
Happisburgh Lighthouse
2.3 km
East Anglia’s oldest working lighthouse, a striking red-and-white beacon steeped in maritime history and community spirit.
Tesco Superstore
3.9 km
A friendly, accessible Tesco Superstore in Stalham offering extensive groceries, fuel services, and community support with convenient extended hours.
Museum of the Broads
4.3 km
Discover Norfolk’s unique waterway heritage through historic boats, art, and interactive exhibits at the tranquil Museum of the Broads.
Barton Broad Boardwalk
8.4 km
Experience Norfolk’s tranquil marshland wildlife on an accessible boardwalk with panoramic views over Barton Broad.
Hickling Broad
9.7 km
Explore Norfolk’s largest broad, a tranquil wetland sanctuary teeming with rare wildlife, scenic trails, and immersive nature experiences.
Toad Hole Cottage Museum
9.8 km
A Victorian marshman's cottage revealing authentic Broadland life in the heart of Norfolk's wetlands.
How Hill National Nature Reserve
9.9 km
Explore diverse fen habitats, historic gardens, and tranquil waterways at How Hill National Nature Reserve in the heart of Norfolk Broads.
How Hill Trust Environmental Education Centre
9.9 km
A historic Broads estate where nature, history, and hands-on learning meet along the River Ant, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Hoveton Hall Estate
10.3 km
Elegant Regency estate with 15 acres of stunning gardens, welcoming accommodation, and versatile event spaces in the heart of Norfolk.
Wroxham Barns
10.4 km
Discover artisan crafts, family farm fun, and festive celebrations at Norfolk’s charming Wroxham Barns.
Poppylands 1940s Tearoom
10.7 km
Step into wartime Britain at Poppylands 1940s Tearoom, where vintage charm, hearty fare, and nostalgic memorabilia create a unique historical escape.
The Big Shop on Womack Staithe
11.1 km
Your friendly, well-stocked convenience store at Womack Staithe, perfect for boating essentials and local treats in the Norfolk Broads.
National Trust - Horsey Windpump
11.2 km
Explore Norfolk’s largest restored windpump with panoramic views, wildlife gardens, and rich heritage in the heart of the Broads.
BeWILDerwood Norfolk
11.6 km
Explore 20 acres of magical woodland with whimsical treehouses, giant slides, and enchanting storytelling at BeWILDerwood Norfolk.
Essential places to dine
The Ingham Swan
3.6 km
A charming Norfolk gastropub and inn blending rustic heritage with modern dining and comfort in tranquil countryside surroundings.
The Swan Inn Stalham
3.8 km
A beloved Norfolk pub and restaurant offering traditional British fare, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere in the heart of Stalham.
Kings Arms
10.8 km
Experience traditional English hospitality at Kings Arms in Ludham – a perfect blend of comfort food and local charm.
The Falgate Inn at Potter Heigham
10.9 km
A charming Norfolk pub and B&B with hearty food, friendly service, and a peaceful garden in the heart of Potter Heigham.
Bure River Cottage Restaurant
11.6 km
An intimate Norfolk Broads seafood haven serving expertly crafted fresh fish and shellfish in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Norada Grill & Tavern
11.6 km
Family-run pub by the Norfolk Broads offering fresh, locally sourced dishes, hearty breakfasts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in Potter Heigham.
New Inn, Horning
11.9 km
Charming riverside pub in Horning offering hearty British fare, scenic moorings, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
The Old Mill
12.5 km
Family-run British café bar with classic breakfasts and grills, set by the riverside in Hoveton near the Norfolk Broads.
Wherrymans
12.6 km
A friendly riverside café and bar in Wroxham offering great coffee, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Norfolk Broads.
King's Head Coltishall
12.8 km
Historic Norfolk gastropub blending award-winning British cuisine, cozy B&B stays, and scenic Broads views in charming Coltishall village.
Rising Sun Coltishall
12.9 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Coltishall serving hearty British fare with warm hospitality and scenic Norfolk Broads views.
The Gunton Arms
13.5 km
A stylish gastropub in Norfolk’s deer park where open-fire cooking meets contemporary art and rustic charm.
The Lion Inn
13.5 km
Discover The Lion Inn in Thurne - A charming pub offering delicious food and local ales amidst the stunning scenery of the Norfolk Broads.
The Maltsters
14.4 km
A welcoming family-run pub and restaurant in Ranworth offering hearty local dishes and a cozy atmosphere amid the scenic Norfolk Broads.
White Horse Upton
16.5 km
A beloved community pub in Upton offering hearty food, real ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tucked Away Norfolk
5.4 km
Discover handcrafted Norfolk treasures in a charming barn setting at Tucked Away, North Walsham’s artisan gift shop.
North Norfolk Crafts & Gift Shop
9.5 km
Discover authentic handmade crafts and unique gifts by local artisans in the charming coastal village of Mundesley.
Lathams of Potter Heigham
11.5 km
Norfolk Broads’ largest discount superstore and pet shop with extensive shopping, fishing tackle, garden centre, and artisan café.
Tidings
11.6 km
Discover Tidings, your go-to convenience store in Horning, offering essential supplies and local delights for travelers exploring the Norfolk Broads.
The Galley Horning
11.7 km
Discover the flavors of Norfolk at The Galley Horning, where gourmet deli delights meet charming cafe culture in a picturesque village setting.
Ludham Bridge Stores
11.8 km
Charming general store offering fresh local produce, souvenirs, and essentials in the heart of the Norfolk Broads’ boating community.
Roys of Wroxham Department store
12.4 km
Discover traditional British charm and a vast array of goods at Roys of Wroxham, Norfolk’s iconic department store and festive shopping haven.
The Bridge Gift Shop
12.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and authentic souvenirs at The Bridge Gift Shop, a charming stop in the heart of Norfolk’s Broads.
A Piece Of Cake
13.5 km
Cozy tea room and bakery in Coltishall, serving fresh cakes, hearty breakfasts, and traditional British fare in a charming riverside village setting.
Norfolk Discounts
17.9 km
Explore Norfolk Discounts in Hemsby: A treasure trove of unique gifts and affordable finds in Great Yarmouth.
Anglia Square
23.8 km
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Cathedral Shop
24.1 km
Discover unique Norfolk crafts and Cathedral treasures at Norwich Cathedral’s charming Gift Shop in the historic Cathedral Close.
Elm Hill Craft Shop
24.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and nostalgic treasures in the heart of Norwich’s historic Elm Hill at Elm Hill Craft Shop.
Inanna's Magical Gifts
24.4 km
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Norwich Lanes
24.4 km
Discover Norwich Lanes, a vibrant maze of independent shops, artisan cafes, and historic charm in the heart of Norwich city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harnser
4.5 km
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White Horse Inn Neatishead
8.4 km
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The Haig Club
9.7 km
A welcoming pub club in Mundesley offering quality ales, live music, and a friendly community atmosphere on the Norfolk coast.
Dog Inn Ludham
11.5 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Ludham offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a cozy campsite in the Norfolk Broads.
The Swan Inn
11.6 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Horning offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and scenic views along the Norfolk Broads.
Innkeeper's Collection Norfolk Broads, Horning
11.6 km
Charming riverside inn on the Norfolk Broads offering cozy rooms, classic pub dining, and scenic waterway views in the heart of Horning village.
The Ferry Inn of Horning
12.7 km
A lively traditional pub on the Norfolk Broads offering hearty fare, riverside charm, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Coldham Hall
22.2 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
24.4 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
The Avenue
25.1 km
A friendly family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering hearty meals, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and tastes.
The Kings Arms
25.9 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Great Yarmouth serving homemade British classics with a charming beer garden and great value.
Lady Haven
26.1 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Coachmakers Arms
26.2 km
A lively Great Yarmouth pub famed for nightly karaoke, live music, friendly staff, and a quirky parrot in the heart of Market Place.
The Market Tavern Public House
26.2 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Great Yarmouth serving hearty British classics with generous portions and friendly service in a lively market setting.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
26.2 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s craft beer culture in a lively Old West saloon setting with award-winning ales and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
ClubKA
8.6 km
Traditional charm meets lively nightlife at The Kings Arms Hotel and ClubKA in North Walsham, offering comfort, great food, and late-night fun.
The Bermuda Club
17.8 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Mantra
24.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Mojo's
24.2 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Popworld - Norwich
24.2 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
24.2 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
24.2 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Loft Nightclub
24.2 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Fallen Angels
26.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
Mavvy’s
27.1 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Buddha Club
27.1 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
28.4 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
53.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
St Edmund's Hall
54.3 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
Southwold Cricket Club
54.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
