You wouldn’t guess it now but, Trentham Estate’s idyllic Italian-style gardens once hosted an amusement park and motor rally races during the 20th century. These formal gardens, dating back to the 1800s, were far from looking their best self. But Trentham Gardens has had quite the makeover, wouldn’t you agree?
Since the millennium, Trentham Gardens has undergone a multi-million-pound redevelopment – restoring the Italian gardens and woodlands to their former glory. James Alexander Sinclair of The Telegraph described it as “The garden makeover of the decade.” It’s also won multiple awards, including Countryfile Garden of The Year and Visit England’s Gold Accolade.
On May 18, Trentham Estate will celebrate its 20th anniversary since its regeneration and reopening. This Emergency Services Community Day sees the estate open its garden doors for free all day. Expect a packed schedule of entertainment – including live music, dance performances, fairground rides and boat and train rides – as it fundraises for Dougie Mac Hospice.
There are over 80,000 perennial flowers planted in The Italian Garden. Plus, iconic statues, water fountains and the ironwork frame of the Trellis Walk. But from the mile-long lake to the nearby ancient wildflower meadows and woodlands, you’ll also want to explore all of Trentham Gardens. Keep your eye out for the magical fairy trail too!
You can visit Trentham Gardens on May 18 any time between 10am and 5pm. As we said, it’s free to enter, but a pre-booked ticket is required. There is a £1 booking fee too, of which 70p will be donated to Dougie Mac. Tickets are on sale now for Trentham members, but will go on general sale tomorrow (Friday, May 10) at 10am. To get yours head here.
How do I get to Trentham Gardens from Birmingham?
You’ll find Trentham Estate just outside of Stoke-On-Trent. The quickest way is to drive via the M6, which from the City Centre will take you 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a train to Stoke-On-Trent from New Street Station, where you can grab a 10-minute bus (No. 100) directly to Trentham Gardens. You’ll find Trentham Estate at Stone Rd, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 8JG
How much does it usually cost?
When it’s not hosting an open day, a trip to Trentham Gardens normally costs £13 for an adult, and £9.50 for a child (3-15 years), while those under 3 go free. You can also grab a family ticket starting from £37.50. Your tickets will also get you 15% off at Trentham Monkey Forest, where you can meet 140 free-roaming barbary macaques.
To learn more about Trentham Gardens head here.