Explore the gardens at Quarry Bank

Areas of the garden to explore

• Upper garden and glasshouses

  The valley garden at Quarry Bank is a rare example of the industrial picturesque movement, where elements of nature such as the caves and cliffs feature alongside the industrial mill backdrop to create a sense of drama.

  Take in the elevated views over the valley and discover Hannah Greg’s favourite spot to sit and enjoy the garden. Head to the Walled Garden to see what grows there, and step inside the historic curvilinear glasshouse where exotic plants and fruits are grown. Don't miss the exotic succulants in the Small Glass House, in the center of the Walled Garden. In the back sheds, you can can uncover the stories of Quarry Bank's gardeners from the 19th century.

• The lower garden

  Wander through the Mill Meadow, cross over the garden bridges and follow the bubbling River Bollin as it flows past the formal parterre garden, created by mill owner Robert Hyde Greg in the 1860s.

• Apprentice House garden

  See where apprentices grew herbs, fruit and vegetables for their meals, after long days working inside the mill. The Apprentice House garden, orchard and pond are a haven for wildlife, where you can often spot birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians.

• Family activities in the gardens

  There are lots of self-led trails around the gardens to enjoy with your family. Whilst you explore, jump in puddles and play a game of poohsticks from the lower garden bridges.