As the sun begins to emerge from behind the clouds, it’s time to get back out into the garden to enjoy the sunshine with a variety of upcoming Oxfordshire garden-based events.
With this summer being a little bit rainier than anticipated we bet you and your little ones just can’t wait to get back outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. Wide open green spaces filled with gorgeous blooms and designs, there is no better way to enjoy the outdoors than by exploring a variety of Oxfordshire’s most established estates and gardens. With a range of family-friendly events running right through the late summer into the early autumn, read our quick guide of prime Oxfordshire locations and discover a number of garden activities for all the family to enjoy.
Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum
Hosted by the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum, why not get closer to nature through a series of their wellbeing events? This weekend why not venture down to the Harcourt Arboretum on Saturday 12th August for their ‘Forest Bathing’ event. Running from 11am-2pm, this event focuses on ‘Shinrin Yoku’, a traditional Japanese form of meditation. Consisting of a mixture of yoga, meditation and mindfulness, these series of guided sessions are an excellent way to relax and take in your surroundings. Make sure to bring your yoga mat, a packed lunch and large bottle of water. Grab your tickets today before they sell out!
If you can’t quite make the event this weekend then you’ll be pleased to know that a touch later on in October the Harcourt Arboretum will again be hosting a ‘Movement with Nature’ event. Running from 2pm-4pm, this session slightly differs as it will involve exploring the connection between both our bodies and nature. Again you’ll want to make sure that you have a workout mat and bottle of water to hand. Make sure to grab your tickets quick!
Waddesdon Manor
Set in the Manor gardens, it’s time to welcome back Waddesdon Manor’s annual Chilli Fest. With a selection of the finest growers, artisan traders and exhibitors, once a year Waddesdon’s grounds are filled with live entertainment, children’s activities and all things chilli! Running from Friday 1st September-Sunday 3rd September, this weekend includes a range of children’s activities such as balloonatic workshops and bubble wizards! And there is even a fun for the adults with the annual chilli eating competition. Make sure to buy your tickets quick before it’s too late!
Running every Wednesday since 17th May until 11th October, Waddesdon Manor are also currently giving the opportunity for exclusive access to their private Rothschild walled garden at Eythrope. With the option for morning or afternoon tours, drift around the stunning Eythrope walled garden, exploring the mesmerising glasshouses and orchards that lie within. Enjoy a hot beverage with cake or a scrumptious afternoon tea as you learn the history behind this garden and discover how Miss Alice de Rothschild created this garden to harvest fresh produce and cut blooms for the household all year round.
Waterperry Gardens
Located in Waterperry village just 30 minutes from Oxford city centre you can find the wonderful Waterperry Gardens. With an abundance of glorious grounds to explore there are even a range of activities for children, such as their current ‘Summer Sculpture Trail’. Running from now up until Sunday 3rd September, watch your little ones wander through the ornamental gardens as they use a series of clues to guide them around the fascinating sculpture trail. With tickets costing just £4 per child, make sure to grab your tickets on arrival at their Gift Barn.
If you’re a floral lover or passionate horticulturalist then make sure to get yourself down to Waterperry Gardens in September. From Friday 1st September- Saturday 30th September Waterperry will be celebrating Michaelmas Daisy Season. Found tucked inside the ornamental gardens, make sure to pop down and see their most famous herbaceous border, flourishing and burgeoning with Michaelmas daisies (otherwise known as Asters). The perfect way to start your September!
Blenheim Palace
Nestled within the historic town of Woodstock, Blenheim Palace estate is a magnificent open space, encompassing a vast lake and a breathtaking selection of gardens. This summer why not immerse yourself within Blenheim’s idyllic vista by taking a paddleboard, boat or kayak out onto the lake for a relaxing summertime activity? Admire the striking views and scenery before you as you take a trip around these expansive waters, making a splash with your loved ones. Fun for all the family and running from now until Sunday 3rd September, make sure to grab your tickets and enjoy a watery outdoor adventure, observing the grounds of Blenheim Palace from a whole new perspective.
Broughton Grange
On Sunday 10th September, Broughton Grange Gardens and Arboretum will be opening their gardens all day from 10am until 5pm. With adults costing £10 and children entering for free, this NGS charity open day will be a fantastic opportunity to explore Broughton Grange’s breathtaking gardens and landscapes. Set in 25 acres of land, make sure to take a look around their charming woodland spaces and striking centre-piece walled garden. A North Oxfordshire country garden that is easily accessible and a delight to the senses, you don’t want to miss out on this spectacular open day.
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