Easton Walled Gardens

Once famously described as ‘a dream of Nirvana, almost too good to be true’ by Franklin Roosevelt, the gardens of Easton were nearly lost forever when the original house, Easton Hall, was demolished in 1951.

Thankfully Ursula and Fred Cholmeley took over the family property in 2001 and have been restoring the 12-acre gardens. There’s a turf maze, yew tunnel, meadows, rose garden, orchards and a pickery (Easton’s unique term for its cut flower garden). Sweet Pea Season runs throughout July and showcases both heritage and modern varieties.

A garden-themed gift shop smells evocatively of English country gardens and is a rich hunting ground for souvenirs. Inside the gardens, The Applestore serves simple but flavourful plates: game sausage roll, ploughman’s quiche, lemon drizzle cake or a moreish coffee and walnut. Wash it down with hot cups of tea or chilled cordial in the summer. You’ll need to pay the entrance fee to access the gardens and Applestore (well worth it if you enjoy uplifting flora) but can enjoy the Coffee Room in the courtyard for free.