Explore gardens and parklands
We care for more than 200 gardens and parks. From kitchen gardens full of fruit and veg to historic parkland, there’s something for everyone.
Gardens in London and the South East
Discover some of the most scenic gardens to visit in London and the South East and enjoy great days out all year round.
Summer is one of the best times to visit National Trust gardens in London and the South East, with vibrant borders, fragrant roses and colourful wildflowers in full bloom. From sweeping herbaceous displays to peaceful walled gardens, discover where to see the season at its peak and enjoy the sights, scents and sounds of summer across our most beautiful outdoor spaces.
Sculpture and art in gardens
Many National Trust gardens in London and the South East come alive in summer with outdoor art and sculpture exhibitions. Set against backdrops of historic landscapes and blooming borders, these installations offer a unique way to experience art in nature, whether you’re discovering contemporary pieces, craft displays or large-scale sculptures on a garden trail.
White Cube at Claydon
This summer, White Cube and the National Trust unveil White Cube at Claydon, a major contemporary art exhibition set within the extraordinary rococo interiors and private gardens of Claydon House.
Expressions in Blue: Monumental Porcelain by Felicity Aylieff
Expressions in Blue invites visitors to see Petworth through the lens of these monumental works in porcelain. The exhibition will be on show at Petworth House and Park from 23 May to 27 September 2026. Entry is free after normal admission to the house (free for National Trust members).
Top gardens to visit this summer in South East England
At this time of year, many of us look forward to the displays of spring bulbs at our most cherished National Trust places. Making the trip to see them is an annual pilgrimage, signalling the start of a new year. From carpets of snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells, to trees laden with blossom and colourful beds bursting with tulips. As we move through the seasons, here's where to find a splash of spring near you.
- Hampshire
- Our Hampshire gardens like Hinton Ampner, Mottisfont and The Vyne are highlights all year round. Grand borders, productive kitchen gardens and panoramic views combine to give joy and inspiration at every turn.Find out more
- Kent
- There are gardens aplenty to explore in Kent, including Sissinghurst Castle Garden, one of the most famous in country and the romantic Scotney Castle. From productive walled gardens to beautiful borders, there's something for every taste.Find out more
- Surrey
- Discover the best gardens and open spaces to explore around Surrey, from bold landscapes at Winkworth Arboretum and Claremont Landscape Garden, to the romantic Polesden Lacey.Find out more
- Sussex
- Garden top spots in Sussex include the dreamy Nymans, and Bateman's. There's Capability Brown landscapes at Sheffield Park and Garden and Petworth too.Find out more
- Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire
- Gardens in Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire are peaceful places to wander. Head to Cliveden, Hughenden and Waddesdon for parterres and sweeping countryside. At Greys Court there's drama and formality in the courtyard displays and intimate garden rooms.Find out more
- London
- Take in rose gardens and wilds at Morden Hall park, or glorious kitchen gardens at Ham House. National Trust gardens across London are waiting for your perfect day out.Find out more
