Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens

About

We are certain that there's been a garden at Grimsthorpe since the early 1500s and maybe even before that. They have evolved over the years and there are still subtle changes taking place. The gardens never appear crowded and there are plenty of quiet corners where you can relax. There are also huge expanses of lawn where younger visitors can let off steam and have fun.

Gardens surround the Castle on three sides. To the South lies a formal lawn with topiary squares beyond. These contain small ornamental pools. Further from the Castle the garden becomes a semi-wild woodland garden, filled with spring bulbs. If you venture beyond this you will arrive at the Head Gardener's own garden. You are welcome to view it, including his mini arboretum.

To the West of the Castle a long herbaceous border provides colour during the summer months. The neatly trimmed yew hedge is cut low enough to give spectacular views to the lake.

On the East of the Castle a formal rose parterre is lined with small box hedges. Beyond it lays a walled kitchen garden. This ornamental fruit and vegetable garden is a haven of tranquillity on a quiet summer afternoon. It contains apple and pear espaliers and a collection of Quince and Medlar trees.

Parents: please note that there are two small ornamental ponds in the gardens and a fountain in the main courtyard. Young children should be supervised at all times, particularly when close to the water features mentioned above.

Dogs are not allowed in the formal gardens, but can be walked (on leads) in the park.