There’s nothing quite like a garden in Spring, with flowers blossoming and birds singing in the trees. Whether you're meeting up with friends or family, going on a date, or just fancy a day to yourself; a walk around a public garden is excellent for the mind, body, and soul. The blossoming spring bulbs create stunning technicolour displays, with red tulips, pink magnolias, lilac hyacinths, and everyone's favourite yellow trumpet: the daffodil. Join CrossCountry as we explore the most enriching spring walks in the UK.
Greenway Gardens, Devon
The Greenway National Trust Garden in Devon was once Agatha Christie’s beloved rural getaway, and for good reason. The estate is a horticultural haven in the spring, with the River Dart coursing through the grounds and rhododendrons, camellias, and magnolias blossoming in the gardens. The peaceful habitat becomes a riot of colour and there are even free springtime walks which take place every year until the end of April.
While the flowers steal the show on a spring garden walk, they share some of the limelight with the resident herons. A large heronry is nestled on the fringes of the garden, and you can find out all about the wildlife during one of the estate tours. Getting to Greenway Gardens is simple with CrossCountry, just catch a train to Paignton station, where you can take a fifteen-minute taxi ride to the gardens.
Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa
For years, Jephson Gardens has welcomed locals and visitors who want to enjoy some fresh air and the beauty of a spring garden. Visit Leamington Spa on your next day trip to roam the magical gardens. Explore floral displays, ornate landscaping, and stunning architecture that pops out of the greenery. There is also a subtropical glasshouse that is home to a number of exotic plants, adding to the spectacular variety of flowers on show. The café in the gardens serves a delicious afternoon tea, and there are around twenty acres of land to explore if you include the nearby grassy Mill Gardens and its boating lake.
Jephson Gardens are less than fifteen minutes walking distance from Leamington Spa station too, so you can plan a CrossCountry trip with ease.
Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire
Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Crathes Castle is a quintessential Scottish tower house that offers an excellent opportunity for a family day out. The garden is divided into eight areas, each showcasing a variety of greenery to delight visitors, including statues, herbaceous hues, and striking flowers. For nature lovers, the garden offers several marked trails along the Coy Burn to spot an array of wildlife, such as buzzards, herons, and kingfishers. And for little ones, the Wild Wood Adventure Play, open between May and December, is perfect for hours of imaginative play.
To reach Crathes Castle by train, head to Aberdeen station, where you can use one of the buses that will take you there directly.
Brockenhurst, New Forest
Brockenhurst New Forest radiates a charm that is made more irresistible in the months of spring. You can hike or cycle the terrain strewn with budding wildflowers. Take a break in a cosy pub such as The Huntsman of Brockenhurst or the Foresters Arms, where 360-degree views can be enjoyed along with a side serving of local hospitality. Look out for ponies, birds, donkeys, and deer while on your exploration of this area of natural beauty.
CrossCountry services trains to Brockenhurst station, from which you can catch a bus to Foxhills and walk the final ten minutes to the park.
Winterbourne House, Birmingham
Located ideally at the centre of Birmingham, Winterbourne House is a uniquely peaceful retreat from the busy city. This magnificent Edwardian estate fits within seven acres of beautifully manicured gardens, ideal for leisurely walks. Roam the borders filled with colourful flowers, the sweet-smelling enclosed garden, or the quiet forested paths. During springtime, the garden presents with magnolias, bluebells, and an array of fruit trees in full bloom.
The site also includes a charming café, where you can enjoy homemade cake or afternoon tea. Winterbourne House is easily accessible, with buses from Birmingham New Street running regularly
Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is one of the finest places to experience spring in Scotland. The garden dates back to 1670 and is renowned for its stunning plant collections, breathtaking beauty, and relative tranquillity compared to the city surrounding it. Springtime at the Botanic Garden brings with it a host of daffodils, crocuses, and tulips that blanket the grounds. Take a stroll along the pathways lined with flowering shrubs and trees or visit the Victorian Palm House for some tropical warmth. It’s a perfect spot for a day trip as you can easily reach the garden from Edinburgh Waverley station by bus or on foot.
If you’re planning a spring garden walk, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia