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Parks

Cholmondeley Castle Gardens

4.5 · 516 reviews
Tranquil, expansive, and horticultural.
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Cheshire, Malpas SY14 8ET, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The estate has been home to the Cholmondeley family since the 12th century, long predating the current 19th-century structure.

2

The garden's 'Temple Garden' features a Chinese-style bridge and a water garden, reflecting 19th-century landscaping trends for exotic garden features.

3

The parkland hosts a herd of red deer, a tradition maintained on the estate for over 500 years.

4

The gardens are often used for major events, including the Cholmondeley Power and Speed classic car festivals.

5

The 'Glade' is a specific section of the woodland designed to showcase camellias and magnolias in spring.

Overview

Cholmondeley Castle Gardens is a 19th-century castellated gothic revival mansion surrounded by 70 acres of landscaped parkland in Cheshire. The estate was built in 1801 by the first Marquess of Cholmondeley, replacing a previous Elizabethan timber-framed house. The gardens feature a significant collection of rare trees and shrubs, including a noted collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. A double herbaceous border, stretching over 100 meters, serves as a focal point of the formal design. The grounds include an ornamental lake, a temple water garden, and a deer park that has existed on the site for centuries. Visitors can access a farm shop and café located within the estate grounds. The castle remains a private family home, restricting public access to the building exterior and the surrounding gardens.

Photo spot

The double herbaceous border looking back toward the castle architecture.

Insider tips

Wear waterproof footwear, as the paths can become muddy during periods of rain.

Check the official website for scheduled public event closures before traveling, as parts of the park are frequently used for private functions.

Allocate extra time for the woodland walks, as the expansive nature of the estate means significant walking distance between garden sections.

What to avoid

Attempting to enter the castle itself, as it is a private residence not open to the general public.

Good to know

Open seasonally from spring through autumn; typically closed during winter months.

Etiquette

Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times; do not pick flowers or stray from marked paths to protect the flora.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring, specifically May, to see the rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom.
Address
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Cheshire, Malpas SY14 8ET, United Kingdom
53.050, -2.675
Get directions
Details
Garden FeaturesDouble herbaceous borders, temple water garden, and ancient deer park.
Botanical FocusRhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and mature specimen trees.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring, specifically May, to see the rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom..

The double herbaceous border looking back toward the castle architecture.

Close by you'll find The Ice Cream Farm, Beeston Castle, Chester Zoo.