An Introduction to the Gardens of Wales

Wales is often called the 'land of song', perhaps it should now be known now as the 'land of song & gardens!'

Famous Gardens

On a national scale, Wales is building a rival to Kew in the form of the National Botanic Garden of Wales at Llanarthne in Carmarthenshire

Perhaps the most famous garden in Wales is Aberglasney - a 'garden lost in time' that has now been restored to its former grandeur. Another historic house with a restored garden is Llanerchaeron at Ciliau Aeron, an example of a small hunting estate untouched for nearly a century.

Grand Gardens

Varity? Well, almost every type of garden is represented. If you like formal gardens based upon the grand houses of the nobility and gentry, then Bodnant at Colwyn Bay and Powis Castle at Welshpool should delight. Some of our "Grand Houses" also have landscaped Parklands - Erddig at Wrexham and Dinefwr Castle in Carmarthenshire are two such examples of 19th century designs preserved.

Small Gardens

Plas yn Rhiw near Pwllheli and Penlan Uchaf in the Gwaun Valley are cases in point. Enjoyed the tale of Beatrice Potter's Flopsy Bunnies? The kitchen garden they were based on is at Gwaenynog in Denbigh.

Exotic Gardens

Then there are the exotic - Portmeiron near Porthmadog is famous for its Italianate architecture, but it is also home to a wide variety of tropical plants not normally seen in our climes. Equally "quirky" with its labrynth of tunnels and grottos is Dewstow in Caerwent.

Varied Gardens

Endless variety is what keeps garden enthusiasts returning to Wales. Like to see a small walled garden? Then Manorowen near Goodwick should be of interest. A Victorian garden? There is a recently restored one at Laugharne Castle Carmarthenshire. What about Water Lillies? The most fantastic display can be seen at Bosherston Lily Ponds in Pembrokeshire.