Powis' multi-layered garden

A view of the the top terrace at Powis Castle and Garden, Powys, Wales — The terraces at Powis Castle and Garden

Wales is famous for its rugged landscapes and ancient fortresses and less known for its gardens, and yet Powis has one of the finest gardens in Britain. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy its superb horticultural craftsmanship and marvel at what is often described as one of the greatest surviving examples of Baroque garden design in Britain.

Today, you can still see many of the elements that have made this a great garden throughout the ages: the dramatic Italianate terraces; the informal woodland opposite; the Edwardian formal garden and the superb views of surrounding countryside.

See the 30ft-high cloud-like yew hedge, dancing statues and lavish herbaceous borders. The sweet scent of flowers fills the air - whatever the season.

Spectacular setting

We're rather proud of our garden at Powis. Yet, the gardens are equally matched by the dramatic setting. As you look out from the top terrace you'll see the entire garden and valley laid out before you.

A view across the garden with Long Mountain in the background. Powis Castle and Garden, Powys, Wales — A breath-taking view across the formal garden.

See the terraces descend to the Great Lawn, backed by the Wilderness ridge with its towering Oaks. To the left see the elegant Edwardian Formal Garden, deer park and in the far distance Long Mountain and the Breidden Hills.

Yew beauty

The 300 year-old clipped yew along Powis’s terraces – the 14 tumps, the 14m-high hedge – remain in the mind long after a visit is over, not only because of their sheer size, but because they are such a major element of the garden.

Looking back to the castle from the Wilderness ridge, you can see how their massive forms provide a visual foundation for the weight of the castle above, and yet the way they seem to melt over the edges of the terraces, like wax, gives them fluidity, too.

Formal garden

In the early 20th century, the kitchen garden was replaced with the formal flower garden. At the same time the croquet lawn and fountain garden were also created. This area has the 'cottage garden' feel of Edwardian garden design.

There is a sense of relaxation which cannot be achieved on hanging terraces so dominated by the towering castle walls' open lawns. Take a seat and enjoy the view or play games on our croquet lawn.

Woodland wilderness

The wooded ridge opposite the castle, known as the Wilderness or Pleasure Ground, hides the garden from the great sweep of the valley beyond. Looking back from the far side of the valley the red castle walls stand out against the hill, but the gardens remain invisible.

The wilderness is in contrast to the rest of the garden and is the perfect place for a woodland walk. Stroll alongside great oaks, rhododendrons and exotic trees and stop by the ice house. Discover the graves of much-loved family pets and uncover unique sculptures hiding in the trees.

A garden for all seasons

Powis is unquestionably a garden for all seasons - from spring bulbs and summer blooms to autumn shades and winter structure - with something to please the eye even on the crispest of winter days.

Our gardens never fail to provide anything less than a jaw-dropping horticultural extravaganza.