Explore a quarter of a dozen English gardens, marveling at their traditional aesthetics and breathtaking flora

In the heart of England, a tapestry of flora and design unfolds, revealing a collection of gardens that are nothing short of enchanting. From the historic to the contemporary, these gardens showcase the best of British horticulture.

Let's embark on a virtual tour of some of England's most captivating gardens.

Levens Hall, located in Kendal, Cumbria (LA8 0PD), is a topiary garden that dates back to 1694, the brainchild of a Frenchman named Guillaume Beaumont.

Hidcote Manor, nestled in Gloucestershire (GL55 6LR), was created by Lawrence Johnston in the early 20th century. This influential garden is a must-visit for any garden enthusiast.

Great Dixter, situated in East Sussex (TN31 6PH), was famously cared for and developed by Christopher Lloyd, a late plantsman. The garden, now managed by head gardener Fergus Garrett, continues to captivate visitors with its vibrant displays.

Sissinghurst Castle, located in Kent (TN17 2AB), is one of the most iconic English gardens. Created by Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicolson in 1930, it is now managed by the National Trust.

Hestercombe House in Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, Somerset (TA2 8LG) features two restored historic landscapes: an 18th-century park and a Lutyens/Jekyll garden.

Shute House, a modest-sized masterpiece by Geoffrey Jellicoe, was created in 1968. It is located in Donhead St Mary, Shaftesbury, Dorset (SP7 9DG) and features pools and descending rills hidden in thick planting, introducing surprise elements.

Chelsea Physic Garden, founded in 1673 as an apothecary's garden, can be found in London (SW3 4HS). It is a living museum that houses over 5,000 edible, medicinal, and useful plants.

Iford Manor, an Italianate garden located in Iford, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire (BA15 2BA), was designed by Harold Peto from 1899.

Bury Court, situated in Nr Bentley, Hampshire (GU10 6LZ), features two separate gardens respectively by Piet Oudolf (1995) and Christopher Bradley-Hole (2001). Oudolf, known for his exuberant style, plants sustainable perennials, while Bradley-Hole adopts a more formal, architectural approach.

Westbury Court, a formal Dutch-style water garden created from 1696, is located in Westbury-on-Severn, Gloucestershire (GL14 1PD).

Herterton House, an astonishing private garden created in 1975, can be found in Hartington, Nr Cambo, Northumberland (NE61 6BN). It boasts a series of maze-like enclosures lined with box, inspired by Mondrian and designed to look good in winter and summer.

Rousham House, a garden designed by William Kent between 1737 and 1741, is located in Steeple Aston, Bicester, Oxfordshire (OX25 4QU).

Cothay Manor, an enchanting well-stocked garden with strong architectural features surrounding a medieval house, is located in Greenham, Nr Wellington, Somerset (TA2 10JR).

Stourhead, a watery landscape garden created in the 1740s by banker Henry Hoare, is located in Stourton, Warminster, Wiltshire (BA12 6QH). It features deciduous tree plantings and 19th-century conifers.

Buscot Park, a formal garden located in Faringdon, Oxfordshire (SN7 8BU), was designed by Harold Peto and features box-edged Italianate terraces and narrow canals.

Denmans, a garden demonstrating the eclectic style of designer John Brookes, is located in Fontwell, Nr Arundel, West Sussex (BN18 0SU).

Each of these gardens offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making England a haven for garden lovers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, these gardens are a must-visit.