Hergest Croft Gardens

Nestled under the iconic Hergest Ridge with fabulous views of the Black Mountains, these critically acclaimed and simply stunning 70 acre gardens hold the national collections of Maples, Birches and Zelkovas. Created and extended by the Banks family over the past five generations, Hergest Croft Gardens are famous for their spectacular spring and autumn colour and contain more than 5,000 rare trees, shrubs and 130 “Champion” Trees. In fact, the gardens have the third tallest tree in the UK standing at 61.5 metres high and is considered to be one of the most important horticultural sites in the country.

The gardens are divided into six main areas: The Azalea Garden, the Maple Grove, the Kitchen Garden, the Park and Park Wood. The terraces outside Hergest Croft are planted with tulips followed by a fiery collection of dahlias and salvias. The lower terrace overlooking the lawn is planted with a striking blue and white scheme in late summer. The large Rockery contains a wonderful selection of bulbs followed by autumn colour given by many Japanese Maples. The formal Slate Garden designed by Elizabeth Banks features edging in five varieties of box and a fir cone sculpture made from slate.

The Azalea Garden has an impressive collection of Azaleas, together with a huge variety of unusual and rare trees. Next to it, and started in 1985, is the Maple Grove which contains many new shrubs and trees, introduced from all over the world especially from the Far East, many of which are unique and not seen anywhere else in the UK. In addition to a traditional vegetable garden, the Kitchen Garden features spring borders, ancient apple trees, a long double herbaceous border and beds of old-fashioned roses.

Park Wood, a secluded valley, hidden deep in an ancient oak wood, is but a short stroll from the main gardens across extensive parkland and contains over 30 acres of giant Rhododendrons and exotic trees, creating an unusual Himalayan scene.

Maples Tearooms within Hergest Croft offer a wide selection of delicious home made light lunches and teas overlooking the front lawn. Terrace seating. Open daily during the season. Winter opening (selected hours).

Whether you are a keen gardener in search of inspiration, a discerning Dendrologist or just looking for a quiet place in which to stroll, visiting this unique, atmospheric garden is a truly memorable experience.

Open February 28th (weekends only in March) – Open daily from March 28th – 1st November 2026. Gift Shop, Plant Sales, Tearoom. Dogs on leads welcome. Personalised tours – individual/groups booked in advance. Coaches by appt only (parking available).

Kington, Herefordshire HR5 3EG Tel:01544230160  www.hergest.co.uk