A little guide from me, and the art they have inspired

As someone who spends a lot of time drawing (and a lot of time looking at flowers!), I’ve always been drawn to botanical gardens. There’s something so peaceful and inspiring about them — the mix of wild and structured beauty, and the stories each garden tells.

Many of the art prints I’ve made over the years are inspired by these gardens — whether it’s a colourful greenhouse, a winding path, or just the feeling of calm you get when you’re there. So I thought I’d share 10 of my favourites to visit around the UK this summer, in case you’re planning a day out or just fancy a bit of garden dreaming.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (London)

Such a classic. You can spend a whole day here and still not see everything. The greenhouses are stunning and the whole place has this magical, timeless feel.

Don’t miss: The Temperate House and the treetop walkway.

2. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

I visited here on a slightly drizzly day and it was still so lovely. It’s peaceful, colourful and full of interesting plants.

Don’t miss: The Chinese Hillside and Victorian Palm House.

3. Cambridge University Botanic Garden

This one feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s in the middle of the city. Great for a wander and some quiet time.

Don’t miss: The Glasshouse Range and Winter Garden.

4. Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum

I love the layout of this garden — very old, very beautiful, and right by the river. It’s got a really calm energy to it.

Don’t miss: The medicinal plants and walled garden.

5. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Tucked away in the city, these Victorian gardens are full of surprises — exotic palms, tranquil lawns, and charming glasshouses.

Don’t miss: The tropical house and peacocks strolling the grounds.

6. Great Dixter House & Gardens (East Sussex)

This place is full of colour and creativity — the planting is wild and joyful and I always leave feeling inspired.

Don’t miss: The Long Border and wildflower meadows.

7. RHS Garden Harlow Carr (Harrogate, North Yorkshire)

This one’s lovely for a gentle walk and a cup of tea. It’s so well looked after and there’s always something in bloom.

Don’t miss: The scented garden and the famous Bettys Tea Room on-site.

8. The Alnwick Garden (Northumberland)

Such a unique garden — it’s got a big waterfall, a Poison Garden (!), and even a treehouse café. Very fun and different.

Don’t miss: The Grand Cascade and Rose Garden.

9. RHS Garden Wisley (Surrey)

This is one of those places where every corner has something new — so many types of plants, and always changing with the seasons.

Don’t miss: The new RHS Hilltop centre and glasshouse displays.

10. RHS Garden Bridgewater (Salford, Greater Manchester)

A newer addition to the RHS family, Bridgewater transforms a historic estate into a garden for the future.

Don’t miss: The Weston Walled Garden and Paradise Garden.

Make it a summer to remember! Each of these gardens has been lovingly captured in our Garden Collection, offering a beautiful keepsake of your visit or a thoughtful gift for a fellow garden lover.

> Explore all our garden art prints here
Happy garden-hopping!