The lakes were excavated in the early 20th century by Major Stewart and are fed by natural springs.
The water lily collection holds a National Collection status verified by Plant Heritage.
The garden hosts an aviary containing various exotic and ornamental bird species.
Major Stewart's collection of big-game trophies and cultural artifacts is displayed in an on-site museum.
The lakes contain thousands of fish, including large carp that can be fed from designated platforms.
The gardens are situated on a site that has been cultivated since the early 1900s.
There is a Victorian-style grotto integrated into the garden landscape.
The site operates as a registered charity under the Burnby Hall Gardens Trust.
Burnby Hall Gardens is primarily recognized for its National Collection of hardy water lilies, housed within two large lakes. The site covers nine acres and was established by Major Percy Stewart, who traveled extensively and collected diverse flora and fauna during his lifetime. The lakes contain over 100 varieties of water lilies, which reach their peak bloom from June to August. Beyond the aquatic plants, the grounds include a Victorian-style garden, an aviary, and a rockery. Visitors can observe large shoals of carp and rudd that inhabit the deep lake waters. The site also features the Stewart Museum, which houses historical artifacts from the Major’s global travels. The gardens are maintained as a charitable trust, preserving the historical legacy of the estate. The terrain is largely flat, providing accessible pathways throughout the landscaped areas.
The wooden bridge spanning the Upper Lake provides a panoramic view of the water lilies.
Bring a camera with a macro lens to capture the fine details of the water lilies.
Visit the feeding platforms early in the day if you want to see the fish near the surface.
Check the official website for scheduled guided tours of the museum if you are interested in the historical artifacts.
Feeding the fish with food not purchased on-site, as it can disrupt the water quality and fish health.
The gardens remain open throughout the year but have reduced operational status or potential closures during the winter months.
