Things to see and do in the garden at Wallington

Family exploring the Wallington walled garden in autumn | © Chris Lacey

The garden at Wallington offers year-round colour with something to see and enjoy in every season. Take a stroll through the woods, taking in the newly planted East drive woodland garden, spot the tree sculptures and fairy doors in the East woods and then make your way to the secluded walled garden where you can pause to hear the trickling water from the Mary Pool and sit back and enjoy the blooms and wildlife in this tranquil space.

The Walled Garden

Take a peaceful stroll through the East Wood and you’ll reach the unassuming Neptune Gate, which leads into the spectacular Walled Garden beyond.

The Mary Pool, a stone water feature with seating either side, is the first sight to greet you. Rest for a moment to listen to the sound of the trickling water and take in the views of the garden before heading to the lower terrace border. Recently rejuvenated, its climbers embrace the old wall and a range of plants draw a variety of wildlife such as butterflies and bees.

Follow the twists and turns of the paths further into the garden and you’ll arrive at the secluded Nuttery, home to Wallington’s beehives, as well as a collection of ornamental trees.

The newly opened Storytelling garden is a place to sit and reflect, with a beautifully designed planting scheme and giant storytelling chair.

At the bottom of the garden is the lower lawn and pond, perfect for picnics and quiet moments. It's easy to imagine the historical family taking tea here; a picture perfect period drama location if ever there was one.

A wooden bench and stone staircase surrounded by shrubbery in the walled garden at Wallington, Northumberland — The walled garden at Wallington, Northumberland | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

The Edwardian Conservatory

Originally created as a covered winter garden, this exceptionally beautiful and popular part of the garden is currently closed. Following recent structural surveys, we're working on what the future of this building will be. Keep an eye out for updates and thank you for your patience.

Nature in the Walled Garden

The Walled Garden is home to a wide variety of wildlife. In 2022, a number of rehabilitated hedgehogs were released into the garden having recovered from illness and injury and we're pleased to say that the garden team frequently find evidence of them around and about.

Many species of birds, butterflies and bees can be found here too. Take a seat on one of the many benches dotted around this space and see how many different creatures you can spot. Do let us know what you see.

You might even spot Olive, the Wallington puss cat and number one rodent catcher, as she wanders around her 'patch'.

River Walk artwork

From the Walled Garden you can set off on the peaceful River walk. As part of the National Trust's programme of Contemporary Art, Wallington welcomed artists INSTAR to create a sculptural work, which is located on the River Walk.

The piece was developed in response to the surrounding habitat, resident wildlife and the threats and challenges faced by the natural world. It was unveiled in March 2022 and will be in situ until 2024.

Make sure to visit this engaging addition to the River Walk, located next to Trout Bridge.