Wandering Through Living Art – My Day at Hidcote Manor Garden

#cityplaybook If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a garden that feels more like a beautifully curated painting than a patch of earth, then Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire should be at the very top of your travel list. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, this National Trust treasure is a masterclass in garden design and peaceful escape. From the moment I walked through the entrance, I felt a sense of discovery and quiet wonder. Hidcote isn't just one garden—it's a series of “garden rooms,” each one enclosed and crafted with its own unique mood, colors, and character. One moment you're walking through a vibrant Red Border bursting with late-summer dahlias and the next, you're enveloped in the tranquility of a shaded White Garden where soft blooms dance in the breeze. What touched me most was the intention behind every space. It’s clear that Major Lawrence Johnston, the garden’s creator, was both an artist and a botanist at heart. Each path felt like an invitation, each flowerbed a personal touch. My absolute favorite? The Long Walk—lined with yew hedges and framed by views that stretch into the English countryside. Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May into early June) is truly spectacular, especially when the herbaceous borders begin to peak and the garden rooms explode with color. Autumn also offers a stunning golden-toned contrast for those who love quieter strolls and rich foliage. Bonus Tips: Location: Hidcote Bartrim, near Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire GL55 6LR, UK Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the garden in peaceful silence. There’s a charming on-site café—perfect for a cream tea break—and a well-stocked plant shop if you’re inspired to recreate a bit of Hidcote at home. Hidcote isn’t just for gardeners. It’s for dreamers, wanderers, and anyone who wants to lose themselves in beauty for a while. I left feeling deeply refreshed, inspired, and—most of all—grateful for places like this that still exist. #hidcotemanorgarden #cotswoldscharm #gloucestershiregardens #nationaltrustuk #gardendesign #hiddengemuk #travelengland #englishgardens #wanderlustuk #tripapproved #hidcote #flowerlovers #naturetherapy #gardeninspiration #horticulturalheaven