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Kiftsgate Court Gardens: A Three-Generations Legacy of Botanical Beauty

Explore the enchanting multi-level gardens of Kiftsgate Court, home to England’s largest rose and panoramic Cotswold views.

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Nestled in Mickleton near Chipping Campden, Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a celebrated Cotswolds botanical garden renowned for its spectacular views, rare plants, and the famous Kiftsgate Rose. Spanning sloping wooded terraces with diverse garden areas, it offers a tranquil yet vibrant experience from April to September, complete with a tea room and plant shop.

A brief summary to Kiftsgate Court Gardens

  • Chipping Campden, Mickleton, GL55 6LN, GB
  • +441386438777
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the garden terrain is steep and uneven in places.
  • Allow at least 90 minutes to fully enjoy the gardens and tea room.
  • Dogs are not allowed in the garden, but there is a nearby grassy area for dog walking.
  • Purchase the illustrated guidebook and plant list for a deeper understanding of the garden’s layout and species.
  • Visit in June or July for the peak bloom of the famous Kiftsgate Rose and other floral highlights.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Stagecoach bus service from Moreton-in-Marsh to Chipping Campden, approximately 30-40 minutes. From Chipping Campden, a taxi ride of about 10 minutes will bring you to Kiftsgate Court Gardens. Bus services run hourly; taxi fares typically range from £10-£15.

  • Car

    Driving from Chipping Campden town center takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Ample free parking is available at the garden. Note that the access road is narrow and parking can be busy during peak season.

  • Taxi

    Local taxi companies operate from Chipping Campden and Moreton-in-Marsh, with journey times around 10-20 minutes depending on starting point. Expect fares between £10 and £20. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods.

Kiftsgate Court Gardens location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Kiftsgate Court Gardens

A Storied Legacy of Women Gardeners

Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a family-run botanical haven shaped by three generations of passionate women gardeners. Originating in the 19th century under Heather Muir’s vision, the garden was developed with inspiration from her friend Lawrence Johnston, creator of nearby Hidcote. Today, Anne Chambers continues this legacy, nurturing the garden’s rare plants and shrubs, including the world-famous Rosa filipes 'Kiftsgate', England’s largest rose. This lineage imbues the garden with a unique narrative of dedication and horticultural artistry.

Diverse Garden Terraces and Features

The gardens unfold over two main levels on a steep Cotswold escarpment slope. The upper gardens near the house present harmonious colour schemes and formal shrub borders, while the sheltered lower gardens evoke the atmosphere of warmer climates. Visitors can explore a sunken garden, bluebell wood, wild borders, and a modern water garden created on a former tennis court, offering a refreshing oasis. Steep paths lead to a tranquil pool terrace with panoramic views of the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills.

Seasonal Highlights and Plant Collections

Kiftsgate Court Gardens bloom vibrantly from spring through late summer, with tulips heralding the season and roses reaching their peak in June and July. The garden showcases a rich variety of tree peonies, hydrangeas, abutilons, and both species and old-fashioned roses. The exuberant Kiftsgate Rose scrambles dramatically over trees and shrubs, creating a signature spectacle. The garden’s plant nursery and shop offer visitors the chance to purchase select plants to take home.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors are advised to allocate about 90 minutes to explore the gardens fully and enjoy refreshments in the tea room, which offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The garden is not fully wheelchair accessible due to its varied terrain and gravel paths, but about a third of the garden is reachable with some mobility. Dogs are not permitted within the garden, though a nearby grassy area allows dogs to be walked. Picnics are not allowed inside the garden, but a picnic table is available near the car park. A detailed guidebook and plant list are available for purchase.

Practical Information and Accessibility

Kiftsgate Court Gardens open seasonally from April to September, with specific opening days and times varying by month. Admission is £12.50 for adults and £5 for children under 16, with discounted group rates and season tickets available. The garden features free parking, accessible parking spaces, and toilets located in the courtyard near the car park. While the garden paths are narrow and steep in places, the stunning views and diverse plantings reward visitors willing to explore.

Setting and Surroundings

Situated on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment, Kiftsgate offers breathtaking views over rolling countryside towards the Malvern Hills. The garden’s natural setting enhances its tranquil and scenic atmosphere, making it a quintessential Cotswold attraction. Nearby attractions include Hidcote Manor Garden, allowing visitors to combine visits for a full day of garden exploration.

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