Buckinghamshire is home to some of England’s most beautiful gardens, offering the perfect places to enjoy a summer day outdoors. From grand historic estates and landscaped gardens to peaceful woodland walks and colourful flower displays, there are plenty of stunning green spaces to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature, a family day out or inspiration for your own garden, here are some of the best gardens to visit in Buckinghamshire this summer.
Cliveden Gardens
One of Buckinghamshire’s most famous attractions, Cliveden is a spectacular National Trust estate overlooking the River Thames. The gardens cover hundreds of acres and combine formal planting, woodland walks and breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside.
Summer is a wonderful time to visit, with colourful borders, peaceful pathways and plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery. Highlights include the Water Garden, the Parterre with views of the house, and the famous Cliveden maze, which is popular with families.
After exploring the gardens, visitors can enjoy a riverside walk or relax with refreshments while taking in the views.
Best for: Historic gardens, scenic walks and a full day out
Stowe Gardens
Located near Buckingham, Stowe Gardens is one of the country’s most impressive landscape gardens. Designed by some of Britain’s greatest garden designers, including Capability Brown, the gardens feature lakes, temples, statues and sweeping views.
Rather than traditional flower gardens, Stowe is designed as a series of dramatic landscapes to explore. Every corner reveals something new, from hidden pathways to impressive architectural features.
The gardens are particularly enjoyable in summer when the surrounding countryside is lush and visitors can take their time discovering the different areas.
Best for: History lovers and long countryside walks
Hughenden Manor Gardens
Set in the Chiltern Hills near High Wycombe, Hughenden Manor offers a more relaxed countryside garden experience. Once home to Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, the estate combines historic gardens with woodland and walking routes.
The gardens are particularly lovely during summer, with colourful planting around the house and peaceful paths leading through the wider estate. Visitors can also enjoy views across the Chiltern landscape.
It’s a great choice if you want a quieter garden visit with opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside.
Best for: Countryside views and peaceful walks
West Wycombe Park
West Wycombe Park is a hidden gem featuring elegant landscaped gardens, lakes and classical architecture. The grounds were created in the 18th century and are known for their temples, bridges and picturesque views.
The gardens have a more tranquil atmosphere than some of Buckinghamshire’s larger estates, making them ideal for a slower-paced summer visit.
Visitors can enjoy wandering around the grounds while taking in the historic features and beautiful surroundings.
Best for: Architecture, photography and a peaceful afternoon
Waddesdon Manor Gardens
The gardens at Waddesdon Manor offer a beautiful mix of formal planting, colourful displays and peaceful woodland. Originally created by the Rothschild family, the gardens were designed to impress, with carefully maintained lawns, fountains and seasonal flowers.
Summer visitors can enjoy vibrant bedding displays, tree-lined avenues and views across the Vale of Aylesbury. The wider estate also offers woodland walks, cafés and plenty to explore around the manor itself.
It’s a great destination for combining a garden visit with a countryside day trip.
Best for: Beautiful displays, photography and family days out
Stony Stratford Riverside Walks
For a more informal garden-style outing, Stony Stratford offers charming riverside scenery and attractive green spaces. Located on the banks of the River Great Ouse, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a summer stroll followed by a visit to the town’s independent shops and cafés.
While not a traditional garden attraction, the combination of riverside paths, open spaces and historic streets makes it a pleasant summer destination.
Best for: A relaxed day out with cafés and walking
Tips for visiting Buckinghamshire gardens
Summer is one of the busiest times to visit Buckinghamshire’s gardens, especially during weekends and school holidays. Arriving earlier in the day can help you enjoy a quieter experience and make parking easier.
Many gardens are large estates, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s also worth checking opening times and whether advance booking is needed before travelling.
If you’re planning a longer day out, consider combining a garden visit with a nearby village, countryside walk or local pub lunch.
With historic estates, colourful summer planting and miles of beautiful countryside, Buckinghamshire is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors this summer.
