Autumn is a magical time of year and is a beautiful season to explore the charming countryside and glorious gardens that Oxfordshire has to offer.
A city brimming with magnificent green spaces, Oxford has an assortment of flourishing gardens dotted throughout the county for you to explore with your friends, family and loved ones. From grand estate gardens to flourishing country gardens, there are a variety of tranquil trails for you to immerse yourself in. Admiring the fiery autumn palettes and textures around you, there is nothing more refreshing and stimulating than heading outdoors to enjoy your natural surroundings.
A quick and easy guide, continue reading to discover a series of must-see grounds and gardens based in and around Oxfordshire that you need to explore this autumn.
Worton Kitchen Garden
A charming kitchen garden based on a secluded Oxfordshire farm, Worton Kitchen Garden is a magnificent garden that you need to put on your to-do list. Growing and harvesting a vast expanse of home-grown produce, Worton Kitchen Garden produces a scrumptious range of ingredients which are included in the dishes found in their restaurant and can even be purchased in their glorious farmshop too!
A flourishing and charming countryside escape, Worton Kitchen Garden is a wonderful location to stroll around as you take in your surroundings, enjoy delicious garden to table meals and tune in to the tranquil sounds of nature. Discover their upcoming autumnal events!
Blenheim Palace
Found in the tranquil market town of Woodstock, Blenheim Palace is a glorious Oxfordshire estate rich with history and adorned with rolling grounds and flourishing gardens. As you walk through this magnificent estate, observe the striking views, burgeoning gardens and spectacular autumn hues that surround you.
From Halloween at Blenheim Palace to idyllic autumn walks, there are a wide variety of events for all the family to get you into the autumnal spirit. Once you’ve explored Blenheim’s beautiful outdoor spaces, why not head inside to one of their cosy cafés for a warm drink or a bite to eat before you head home?
Rousham House & Gardens
A traditional English landscape design crafted by the late William Kent, Rousham’s House & Gardens are filled with history, with the garden design dating back to the 18th century. Open every day of the year from 10am until 4:30pm, Rousham’s bold and striking gardens are the perfect place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
With the design encompassing an expansive great lawn, pleasure grounds and charming walled gardens, Rousham has so many unique and breathtaking features embedded into the landscape. Plan your visit to Rousham today and embark on a glorious autumn day out.
Please note that dogs and children under 15 are not allowed entry into the gardens.
Waddesdon Manor
Located just outside Oxfordshire in the beautiful Buckinghamshire village of Waddesdon, Waddesdon Manor is a charming manor house that was constructed and designed by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild.
Designed and created at the end of the 19th century, the gardens and grounds at Waddesdon Manor are truly mesmerising and are a must-see during the autumn period. Transporting you into the heart of Buckinghamshire countryside, Waddesdon Manor is the perfect place to refresh your senses and immerse yourself in nature, taking in the picturesque autumn landscapes that surround you.
On the 16th, 23rd and 25th October, Waddesdon will be offering guided tours of their beautiful working garden at Eythrope Walled Garden. This will give visitors an exclusive opportunity to explore the gardens and indulge in an afternoon tea at the Manor Restaurant, as well as the chance to see the gardens at Waddesdon.
Please note that the house & gardens will be closing for the main season on Sunday 27th October. However, Waddesdon will again reopen from 15th November -5th January for Christmas at Waddesdon where their illuminated light trail will fill the gardens.
Waterperry Gardens
Last but not least we have the wonderful Waterperry gardens. Incredibly close to Oxford city centre, Waterperry Gardens are a fantastic day out for all ages. Consisting of 20 glorious acres, the gardens at Waterperry are filled with a variety of striking features, from sculpted formal gardens to burgeoning orchards. A magical landscape that encompasses a variety of mesmerising garden features, discover a number of exciting autumnal activities for all the family to enjoy this Halloween season at Waterperry.
For more garden inspiration, head to our stories to continue reading.