Gardens to Visit in Derbyshire

Rich landowners and Industrial Masters have made their mark on this area of the country over the centuries, building grand houses and developing rich landscaped gardens. Leaving a legacy of horticultural wealth for future generations to enjoy.

Belper Parks

Belper River Gardens © SeasonalGardening

Belper gardens provide a relaxing place to visit, in a tranquil setting by the old mill weir. Rowing boats, bandstand concerts, outdoor theatre and other events in Summer.

Also located in the heart of Belper town is a 26 hectare nature reserve, containing mixed and diverse habitats with mature trees and natural grassland.

Facilities: parking, play area, refreshments
Open: daily 8am to dusk - Free Entry
Address: Belper, Derbyshire.
Tel: 01773 570222
Web: ambervalley.gov.uk

Calke Park and Abbey

Calke Abbey House (CC0)

Take a relaxing stroll through these delightful walled gardens, with an ancient orangery, auricula theatre and a working kitchen garden. Some of the most majestic and oldest trees in Europe are set within its 600 acres of surrounding landscaped parkland. House also open to public. Park and nature reserve open all year, daily.

Facilities: parking, restaurant, shop
Open: February to October
Address: Ticknall, Derby, Derbyshire, DE73 7LE
Tel: 01332 863822 - Run by National Trust
Web: nationaltrust.org.uk

Chatsworth House

View from the top of the Water Cascade (CC0)

A classical 17th-c. mansion built by the 1st Duke of Devonshire. Set in beautiful gardens with statues, fountains and a famous cascade that tumbles down towards the house from a hilltop temple. The 1000 acre site has surprises at every turn with water features, canals, grottos, giant statues, sculptures and stone sphinxes. Plus a Victorian glasshouse, laburnum tunnel and modern yew maze.

Facilities: parking, restaurant, shop, playground
Open: March to November
Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1PP
Tel: 01246 565300
Web: chatsworth.org

Darley Park (Derby)

H. macrophylla normalis © Seasonal Gardening

Extensive public parkland that stretches across luscious meadowland alongside the River Derwent, near the city of Derby. It is home to a stunning Grade II listed Arboretum. The park also houses the nation's largest collection of hydrangeas, with over 400 different species to see.

Facilities: parking, cafe, nature trails, play area
Open: any reasonable time - Free Access
Address: Darley Park Rd, Derby DE22 1EJ
Tel: 01332 640789 - Run by Derby Council
Web: derby.gov.uk

Haddon Hall

View from the Terraces © MichaelMaggs (CC2.5)

Romantic mediaeval Manor House, with charming terraced Gardens and lovely views across the Wye valley. Mainly laid out in the 16th & 17th century, it is said to be one of the most romantic gardens in England.

Facilities: parking, restaurant, shop
Open: May to October
Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1LA
Tel: 01629 812855
Web: haddonhall.co.uk

Lea Gardens

Mixed Azaleas in Bloom (FM)

One of England's finest ericaceous plant collections, with glorious shows of specie Rhododendron, Azalea and Kalmias from around the world. Covering 4 acres on a richly wooded hillside, with colourful rock and alpine gardens. Packed with alpines, acers, dwarf conifers, heathers and spring bulbs. Views across the Derwent Valley and pleasant woodland walks.

Facilities: parking, tea shop, plant sales
Open: March to June
Address: Lea, Matlock, DE4 5GH
Tel: 01629 534380
Web: leagardens.co.uk


Due to the wide variations in opening times, and seasonal changes, we are only able to state the core months in which these gardens are open. For details of the actual days and times of opening, please visit the garden's website using the link provided or call them using the telephone number listed.

Gardens by Area