Bowood Woodland Gardens: A Seasonal Floral Sanctuary in Wiltshire
A seasonal floral haven in Wiltshire showcasing spectacular bluebells, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons across 30 serene woodland acres.
Bowood Woodland Gardens, nestled near Calne in Wiltshire, is a stunning 30-acre seasonal garden famed for its spectacular displays of bluebells, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Open from mid-April to early June, it offers visitors a tranquil escape with diverse flora, picnic spots, and a charming vintage-style refreshment kiosk. This garden is part of the historic Bowood Estate, blending natural beauty with rich heritage and family-friendly features.
A brief summary to Bowood Woodland Gardens
- Devizes Rd, Calne, SN11 9PG, GB
- +441249812102
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit between mid-April and early June to experience the full flowering season, especially the rhododendron blooms in May and June.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for varied terrain, as some paths have steep gradients and woodland surfaces.
- Enjoy refreshments at The Nosh Box, a vintage horse trailer serving homemade cakes and local teas near the entrance.
- Bring a picnic to use the benches around the gardens for a relaxing break surrounded by nature.
- Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners.
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 to Bowood Woodland Gardens from Calne takes approximately 10-15 minutes via the A342. Free parking is available adjacent to the admissions kiosk. Note that some rural roads may be narrow, and signage is clear near the garden entrance.
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Bus
Local bus services from Calne to nearby Derry Hill or Sandy Lane villages run several times daily, with a short taxi or 20-minute walk to the gardens. Bus tickets cost around £3-£5 one way. Check local timetables for current schedules.
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Taxi
Taxi services from Calne town center to Bowood Woodland Gardens typically take 10 minutes and cost approximately £10-£15. Pre-booking is recommended during peak season due to limited availability.
Bowood Woodland Gardens 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 Bowood Woodland Gardens
A Seasonal Celebration of Nature’s Finest Blooms
Bowood Woodland Gardens burst into vibrant life each spring, opening from mid-April to early June. This 30-acre woodland oasis is renowned for its breathtaking floral displays that evolve through the season. Early spring welcomes carpets of bluebells and elegant magnolias, their pink and white blooms thriving in sheltered spots. By May, the gardens showcase a fragrant array of azaleas, including the sweetly scented ‘Honeysuckle Azalea.’ The season culminates in a spectacular rhododendron display, featuring swathes of red, scarlet, yellow, purple, pink, white, and blue flowers, some dating back to plantings from 1854 by the 3rd Marquess of Lansdowne. This succession of blooms offers a dynamic and immersive floral experience for visitors.Historical Roots and Family Legacy
The Woodland Gardens are part of the larger Bowood Estate, a historic family home of the Lansdowne family with origins dating back to the 1760s. The gardens include the Jubilee Garden, a four-acre section originally laid out around 1854 and expanded over the last two decades by the current Marquis. This area exemplifies the estate’s long-standing horticultural heritage and commitment to preserving rare and hybridized plant species. The gardens’ design and planting reflect centuries of botanical passion and aristocratic stewardship, inviting visitors to connect with both nature and history.Tranquil Setting and Visitor Experience
Set just off the A342 between Derry Hill and Sandy Lane, the Woodland Gardens offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering woodland and carefully crafted flower beds. Visitors can enjoy picnic benches scattered throughout the grounds, perfect for a restful break amid the natural beauty. The Nosh Box, a vintage horse trailer refreshment stand near the admission kiosk, serves homemade cakes and locally sourced tea and coffee, enhancing the garden’s charming, rustic atmosphere. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, making it a friendly destination for pet owners.Accessibility and Practical Information
While the gardens feature some steep gradients and varied terrain that can challenge wheelchair users, there are wheelchair-accessible toilets near the entrance, and parking is free adjacent to the admissions kiosk. The garden’s remote location means visitors should plan accordingly, but the site is well equipped with basic amenities such as toilets and refreshment options. The garden’s opening hours typically run from 10:30 to 17:30, with last admissions at 16:30 during the flowering season.Connection to the Wider Bowood Estate
Though the Woodland Gardens are a distinct attraction, they complement the extensive Bowood House and Gardens estate, which features Capability Brown-designed parkland, an adventure playground, and historic house tours. The estate offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and natural beauty, making it a versatile destination for families, horticulture enthusiasts, and history lovers alike.Seasonal Highlights and Conservation
The garden’s focus on environmental protection and nature conservation is evident in its carefully managed plantings and naturalistic woodland setting. The seasonal opening ensures that the gardens are enjoyed at their peak floral display while allowing the ecosystem to thrive undisturbed for the remainder of the year. This approach balances visitor enjoyment with sustainable garden management, preserving Bowood Woodland Gardens as a treasured natural sanctuary in Wiltshire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Mill
21.0 km
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The EASTGATE
21.1 km
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Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
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Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
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Marshal Wade's House
21.2 km
Discover the elegance and history of Marshal Wade's House in Bath, a stunning Georgian architectural gem that tells the stories of the past.
Bath Ghost Tours
21.2 km
Explore the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales and eerie encounters bring the city's past to life.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
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Explore Bath's rich heritage and stunning sights with the Best of Bath Walking Tours, where history and beauty come alive on every step.
Bath Walking Tours
21.2 km
Explore Bath’s rich history and stunning architecture through expert-led walking tours starting at Abbey Courtyard.
Bath's Historic Venues
21.2 km
Explore Bath's Historic Venues, where elegance meets history in the heart of the city. Perfect for weddings, conferences, and unforgettable events.
The Roman Baths
21.2 km
Explore the ancient marvel of The Roman Baths in Bath, England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reveals the grandeur of Roman life through its well-preserved baths and captivating history.
Bath World Heritage Centre
21.2 km
Explore the rich history of Bath at the World Heritage Centre, your gateway to the city’s remarkable past and UNESCO heritage.
Archway
21.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
The Pump Room Restaurant
21.2 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
SouthGate Bath
21.2 km
Explore SouthGate Bath: A shopping haven blending modern retail with historic charm in the heart of Bath.
Museum of Bath at Work
21.2 km
Explore Bath’s Industrial Heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work – A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bowood House & Gardens
1.9 km
Historic Bowood House & Gardens: Timeless heritage, stunning Capability Brown parkland, and family adventure in Wiltshire’s countryside.
Lacock Abbey
4.2 km
Discover Lacock Abbey: centuries of history, stunning architecture, and magical Harry Potter film scenes in Wiltshire’s enchanting countryside.
Yelde Hall
5.7 km
Step into Chippenham’s medieval past at Yelde Hall, a historic timber-framed gem blending civic heritage with vibrant local culture.
Morgan's Hill
6.7 km
Discover Morgan's Hill, a tranquil chalk grassland reserve rich in rare orchids, butterflies, historic earthworks, and sweeping Wiltshire vistas.
Kennet and Avon Canal
8.4 km
Historic 57-mile canal linking London to Bristol with iconic locks, aqueducts, and scenic towpaths through England’s picturesque countryside.
Lowden Garden Centre
8.7 km
Discover Lowden Garden Centre: your go-to spot for gardening delights, fresh local produce, and cozy dining in the heart of Wiltshire.
Wiltshire Museum
9.0 km
Discover 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s history through award-winning galleries and stunning Bronze Age treasures in the heart of Devizes.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
9.0 km
Explore Oldbury Castle Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age stronghold with breathtaking views and rich prehistoric heritage on Wiltshire’s Cherhill Downs.
Cherhill White Horse
9.1 km
Historic chalk hill figure carved in 1780, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into Wiltshire’s heritage.
Middlewick House
10.2 km
Explore the stunning gardens, classic car collection, and vibrant community spirit at Nick Mason’s historic Middlewick House estate.
Windmill Hill, Avebury
13.0 km
Explore Windmill Hill, a vast Neolithic causewayed enclosure with panoramic views and deep prehistoric significance within Avebury's ancient landscape.
National Trust - Avebury Manor
14.0 km
Explore a historic 16th-century manor and stunning gardens nestled within the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle in Wiltshire.
Silbury Hill
14.1 km
Explore Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric chalk mound, a monumental mystery towering over the Wiltshire landscape since 2400 BC.
National Trust Museum
14.1 km
Explore Britain’s prehistoric heritage through the remarkable artefacts and stories at the Alexander Keiller Museum in Avebury’s ancient heartland.
Avebury
14.3 km
Explore Avebury, the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, a monumental prehistoric landscape of mystery, ritual, and enduring heritage.
Essential places to dine
Sign of the Angel
4.3 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
Bybrook
14.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Bathampton Mill Bath
18.5 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
Grey's Brasserie
19.3 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
20.4 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
The Restaurant at The Bird
20.6 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Opa Bath
20.9 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Ponte Vecchio
20.9 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
Hudson Steakhouse
21.0 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
La Perla
21.0 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
21.0 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
Antica Bath Restaurant
21.0 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
The Elder Restaurant
21.0 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Chez Dominique
21.0 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
Sotto Sotto
21.0 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
O L I V
4.3 km
Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
National Trust Gift Shop
4.3 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
Quintessentially English
4.4 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
4.4 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
The Gift Box
4.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish fashion accessories in a charming Calne boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Emery Gate Shopping Centre
5.8 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
7.0 km
Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Willow Uk Ltd
8.8 km
Discover timeless gifts, antiques, and design inspiration at Willow UK Ltd, Corsham’s boutique blending art and heritage.
Previous Homewares
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Discover quirky gifts, vintage treasures, and beautiful homewares at Corsham’s beloved boutique, Previous Homewares.
Wadswick Country Store
11.4 km
Wiltshire’s premier country store offering expert equestrian gear, outdoor clothing, and rural lifestyle essentials in a scenic countryside setting.
National Trust shop
14.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic stables building at the heart of Avebury’s ancient village.
The Henge Shop
14.2 km
Explore Celtic and Pagan treasures, spiritual guidance, and artisan crafts in the heart of Avebury Stone Circle.
Avebury Community Shop
14.2 km
Explore the Avebury Community Shop for unique local products, artisan goods, and a taste of Marlborough's vibrant culture.
Elements of Avebury
14.3 km
Discover authentic local artistry and spiritual treasures in the heart of Avebury’s ancient stone circle.
The Wiltshire Gift Co
20.0 km
Discover unique gifts and candles in a vibrant garden centre setting with family-friendly attractions and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The George Inn
0.9 km
A classic village pub in Sandy Lane offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and warm local hospitality.
Westbrook Inn
3.2 km
Charming countryside pub near Chippenham offering extensive vegan options, hearty meals, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The Ivy Inn
4.8 km
A traditional Wiltshire pub offering cozy charm, fresh food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Heddington.
The Three Crowns
5.3 km
A lively, traditional pub in Chippenham known for real ales, live music, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Flying Monk
5.7 km
A friendly and lively pub in Chippenham’s Market Place, renowned for craft ales, community events, and warm hospitality.
The Cellar by Wine Monkey
5.9 km
A boutique wine bar and shop in Chippenham offering expertly curated wines, small plates, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere for wine lovers.
Old Road Tavern
6.3 km
A traditional Chippenham pub with quality ales, lively music, and a welcoming garden, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The White Horse Inn
8.5 km
Traditional Wiltshire pub and guesthouse offering homemade food, local ales, cosy rooms, and a warm countryside welcome in Compton Bassett.
The Wellesley Arms
9.8 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
10.2 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
12.4 km
Charming countryside pub and boutique inn on Box Hill with stunning views, hearty local fare, and cozy rooms near Corsham and Bath.
Waggon & Horses
13.1 km
Historic 17th-century gastropub with cosy charm, scenic garden views of Silbury Hill, and a celebrated menu featuring local and gluten-free delights.
Red Lion
14.3 km
A charming traditional pub in Avebury offering hearty food, local stories, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near the ancient stone circles.
The Full Glass Bar
14.5 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
The Somerford Arms
15.6 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E11evn's Nightclub
6.0 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
17.5 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
The Tub
19.0 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
21.0 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Lomah
21.1 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Second Bridge
21.1 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
21.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
21.3 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Komedia
21.4 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
ReVA Nightclub
33.6 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Capones
35.5 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Dare to Club
35.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Motion
35.9 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
36.4 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Lakota
37.0 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
