Things to do in the garden at Dunham Massey

Two people sit on a bench inside a wooden shelter to the left, on the right there are autumn trees — Visitors in Bark House, Dunham Massey | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Escape to Dunham Massey's extensive gardens and unwind amidst its natural beauty. Once enjoyed exclusively by the Earls of Stamford and Warrington and their families, the garden is now a tranquil haven for visitors and wildlife alike.

Garden highlight: the Winter Garden awakens

During autumn, the seasonal colour transforms the views of the gardens and the winter garden begins to wake. Look out for the carpet of autumnal bulbs. Cyclamen is happiest in early autumn and the silvery bark of the Birch triangle glows in the afternoon light.

In the Acer meadow, the crossover of branches overhead creates a red orange archway, allowing visitors to walk under their beautiful canopy. Don’t miss the yellow Birches against the autumn sky and try to spot the distinctive smell of burnt sugar as the Katsura or ‘Candyfloss’ tree emits a wonderfully seasonal scent. There are candyfloss trees across the Dunham garden – ask a gardener or volunteer to point them out to you.

The Orangery at Dunham Massey, Cheshire — The Orangery at Dunham Massey | © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard

Historic landmarks

A variety of historic landmarks are waiting to be discovered in the Dunham Massey Gardens. Discover the unique bark house, attributed to the 7th Earl, and enjoy the sweeping view of the lawn. Find the well house, pause by the graves of the family’s dogs and discover the mount, which is thought to date back as far as 1173.

Especially pleasant on rainy days is the Orangery, where the family could grow exotic fruits. The perfect place for a reflective moment - adults can enjoy the plants and views, while children relax with literature.

Wander along the canal border

Whenever you’re visiting, the canal border is a beautiful place to wander along the water’s edge. In autumn, this is the place to smell the candyfloss scent of the katsura tree as its decaying leaves emit the aroma of burnt sugar. Enjoy the reflection of Japenese maples in the canal water.

A mother and young daughter on a small wooden bridge crouch and look through the slats with autumn leaves on the ground. An older couple walk in the background to the left — Visitors enjoy the garden in autumn at Dunham Massey | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Dunham Massey’s home-grown produce

The Kitchen Garden has been recently renovated and the seasonal produce is harvested to be used in dishes made in the Stables Restaurant.

See the fruits and vegetables growing in the garden. Why not head to the restaurant to sample the fresh fruits and veg.

An ever-changing experience

Truly a garden for all seasons, no two visits to the Dunham Massey Gardens are ever the same. Return throughout the year to see the garden evolve under the dedicated care of the gardeners. Depending on the season, there could be a carpet of bluebells, the Rose Garden might be in full bloom, the grounds may be flooded with autumnal shades, or the Winter Garden could be taking centre stage.