Walking at Belton

Enjoy a stroll through Belton's spring gardens. After white blankets of snowdrops appearing as an early sign of the season, the Pleasure Grounds become carpeted in swathes of daffodils, pale-yellow primroses and delicate blue scilla during March and April. They then later, gradually give way to bluebells in May.

The Italian Garden and classical Orangery were designed by Sir Jeffry Wyattville circa 1820. A summer stroll here will reward you with a vibrant display of dahlias and lush herbaceous borders. Fragrant lavender beds form part of the parterre planting in the Dutch Garden which leads towards Belton's famous sundial and gently sloping Pleasure Grounds.

A walk through the gardens or parkland in the autumn reveals a richness of colours ranging from amber and gold to copper and honey. Bring the whole family to explore or take some time for a peaceful walk on a crisp, clear day. It’s also rutting season and a visit might reward you with the sight of Belton’s deer as they fight for dominance and female attention. Be careful to keep your distance. Another highlight is a walk in the woods and the view from Bellmount Tower, which you can reach from Five Gates Road.

From crisp, bright, frosty days to atmospheric, misty mornings, Belton is a delight in winter. On these quiet days, Belton deer are often very close to the house and make for great photo opportunities. At this time of year, one of the best views is from top of the slope to the Old Wood. Here you'll find a bench where you can sit and gather your thoughts as you look across the park to the house.