We’ve seen some pretty trippy places—from an Italian village in Wales to family houses cut into rock cliffs—but this Victorian garden, described as a ‘quirky, playful paradise’, may be the most peculiar we’ve ever come across. And Biddulph Grange Garden is just over an hour away from Birmingham.
Thanks to the great Victorian plant-hunters, Biddulph Grange Garden was beloved for its wide-ranging flower collection in its day—specifically, orchids, rhododendrons and azaleas. But today provides an offbeat global journey through Egypt, China, Italy, and the Himalayas.
What is there to see at Biddulph Grange Garden?
The iconic Chinese garden, complete with a bright red pagoda and golden water buffalo statue, sits at the heart of Biddulph Grange Garden, surrounded by brightly-coloured acer trees. But to get there, you must first wander through the fern-filled Himalayan Glen.
Elsewhere on this globetrotting journey, discover the Egyptian Court hidden behind hedges. Here, two pairs of sphinxes guard a topiary pyramid and obelisks. Or, for something more traditional, visit the formal Italianate gardens or the half-timbered Cheshire Cottage. Kids can even enjoy a woodland play area.
One of the most impressive sights is the country’s oldest Stumpery, which is best described as an atmospheric sunken path bordered by upside-down oak tree roots. But, from a stunning Dahlia Walk to the oldest Golden Larch in Britain, there’s so much wonder and wonderful flora to discover.
And don’t fret about sustaining yourself around these magnificent gardens, you can pick cakes and drinks from The Tearoom. Plus, a second-hand bookshop if you need something to read while you eat, and a plant centre stocked with seasonal planting if you feel inspired to take something home with you.
How do I get there from Birmingham?
Located in Staffordshire, Biddulph Grange Garden is just an hour and 15 minutes from Birmingham by car. Follow M6 to Queensway in Tittensor and take exit 15, then follow the A500 and A527 to Grange Road in Biddulph. Alternatively, you can take a train from Birmingham New Street to Stoke-on-Trent, change for Congleton, and then the 94 bus to St Lawrence’s Church, in under two hours.