Spaces to dream, relax and play

Rest and play this summer, without the work.

At a National Trust garden or park you can leave the stresses of the outside world at the gate. Inside, you'll be seduced by scent and dazzled by colour, and children will find a place of adventure. Take in beautiful views, go for walks and relax by water.

So make yourself comfy and read on for our selection of some of the best green spaces to get away from it all.

Be seduced by scent

Ham House, London

© NTPL / Nick Meers

The restored Kitchen Garden is filled with scented herbs such as lavender, rosemary and thyme. Let your hands brush up against their foliage, releasing the intoxicating scents. For a moment you might be fooled into thinking you’re in the Mediterranean rather than the outskirts of London.

Mottisfont Abbey, Hampshire

© NTPL / Stephen Robson

Set amidst glorious countryside along the River Test, this gorgeous garden has 300 varieties of old-fashioned roses. They fill the air with their sweet scent in this highly evocative garden harking back to the romance of days gone by. Although the roses are at their best in June, this garden is a delight to visit at any time.

Be dazzled by colour

Nymans Garden, West Sussex

© NTPL / Stephen Robson

The achievement of three generations of the same family over a period of 100 years, this garden is internationally famous for its beauty. A spectacular pair of high summer borders, steeply tiered and kaleidoscopically coloured, are sure to dazzle even the least green fingered visitor.

Powis Castle, Powys

© NTPL / Andrew Butler

This dramatic fortress of red limestone is perched high on a rock above wide hanging terraces, richly planted with colourful flower gardens and giant shaped yew trees. This world famous garden really is a spectacular sight; steep but well worth the climb.

Experience the views

Chartwell, Kent

© NTPL / Rupert Truman

The house is set on a hillside commanding panoramic views over the Weald of Kent, towards the South Downs. In fact the views were the reason why Sir Winston Churchill bought it in the first place. Glorious gardens and a house full of history, make this a fantastic day out.

Dunster Castle, Somerset

© NTPL / Magnus Rew

Dunster is an ancient castle, with terraced gardens and sub-tropical plants, sited on the top of a wooded hill with extensive views over Exmoor and the Bristol Channel. There is something here for everyone, a great day out for all the family.

back to top

Go for walks

Gibside, Newcastle upon Tyne

© NTPL / Nick Meers

Escape the city and get back to nature by visiting one of the North’s finest landscapes. Miles of walks take you through verdant woodland and along the sparkling River Derwent. A great way to recharge the batteries, and refresh the soul.

Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckinghamshire

© NTPL / Andrew Butler

One of the first great English landscape gardens where it’s easy to lose yourself in the vast open spaces. Stowe is dotted with quirky classical temples, columns and arches which provide magical secret corners.

Relax by water

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire

© NTPL / Matthew Antrobus

This World Heritage Site is a wonderful treat. Wander round the ornamental lakes, canals and cascades which provide a succession of dramatic, eye catching views. What better way to spend a warm summer’s day than by cool water.

Stourhead, Wiltshire

© NTPL / Nick Meers

Water is central to the appeal of Stourhead, as the lake is the focal point of the surrounding landscape, revealed and hidden at intervals as you walk around. And if all that water makes you thirsty why not stop off at the restaurant for a cream tea. You can always circle the lake again to burn off the calories.