Gardens FAQ
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our gardens.
What kind of gardens do you have at Pensthorpe?
Pensthorpe has three formal gardens providing year round interest.
The Wave Garden is a woodland garden comprising spring and summer flowers and bulbs within a wave of yew hedging, there is a bog garden, specimen trees, seating and sculptures.
The Millennium Garden is an acre of mixed perennials and grasses designed by reknowned plantsman Piet Oudolf. It provides a tapestry of colour and texture from early summer through to the winter structural seedheads.
Our Wildlife Habitat Garden has been designed to show what you can do at home to create habitats to attract various species into your outdoor space.
When is the best time to visit?
No single time of the year is best as there is always something new to see in the gardens from the Snowdrops, Species Tulips and spring woodland flowers of the Wave Garden through to the splendour of the late summer perennial Millennium Garden. Our Wildlife Habitat Garden is stocked with plants for year round appeal to both humans and wildlife. All three gardens are connected by wildlife corridors which allow the movement of animals and insects, there is an abundance of wildflowers throughout the wildlife corridors of the reserve to compliment the gardens
Can I buy plants and other gardening items at Pensthorpe?
Yes we have a well stocked plant sales area with a large selection of plants from each of the three gardens. (If it is possible to order large numbers or unavailable plants these must beordered in advance) There is also a wide range of gardening gifts and tools available in our shop.
Are children welcome in the garden?
Of course! Our aim is for the gardens to be enjoyed by everyone. The borders are planted with growing/ evolving lovely and unusual plants so we do ask that children are supervised while in the gardens. There are gravel and bark paths throughout each garden to show the way through.
Are groups welcome at the Gardens?
Yes, special group rates apply. There is free coach parking and Coach drivers are admitted into the grounds free of charge and receive a £5 meal voucher. For an extra charge you can also organise a tour of the gardens with our Head Gardener - subject to availability.
How many gardeners are there at Pensthorpe?
Pensthorpe gardens are managed by our Head Gardener with some part time assistance by a small team of volunteers.
What kind of soil do you have at Pensthorpe?
Our gardens have evolved as part of the ever-changing landscape of Pensthorpe, incorporating some of the original chalk, flint, and gravel . The soil is generally quite poor and dry, this however allows for an abundance of wildflowers and also provides suitable growing conditions for some of the more naturalistic planting in the Millennium Garden. Without a richer soil the plants should grow shorter and sturdier and in theory should flower more profusely. Some of the woodland areas have a more enriched soil, and provide a more lush surrounding.
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