As the Chelsea Flower Show bursts into bloom and sunshine spills across the countryside, there’s no better time to plan a floral escape.
Whether you’re green-fingered or simply seeking a soul-soothing stay surrounded by blossoms, Premier Cottages has handpicked some of the UK’s most enchanting garden getaways.
From ivy-draped manor houses to cottages with their very own Yellow Book gardens, these retreats promise not just rest and relaxation — but inspiration at every turn. Here are Premier Cottages’ top botanical escapes to enjoy this season.
Bodnant Estate, North Wales
Old stone houses, cottages and barns have been traditionally restored and furnished comfortably and stylishly as holiday lets on Bodnant Estate. Enjoy wandering on the many miles of private paths through woods and fields on the estate, with spectacular views across to Snowdonia and the Irish Sea, or sit peacefully in the gardens and view the sprawling mountains, lakes, oak and beech forests and above all, tranquillity.
Bodnant Garden, now owned by the National Trust and lying at the heart of the estate, within 1-3 miles walking distance of all our properties. It is world famous for its laburnum arch, grand Italianate terraces, streams, waterfalls and views, and its National Collections of plants.
More information about Bodnant Estate here.
A seven night stay in Bryn Derw on Bodnant Estate for up to 4 people costs around £1424.
Vicarage House, Norfolk
Set in a rural location in the delightful village of Great Hockham, Vicarage House is your own private oasis to do as much or as little as you like. This glorious Georgian Rectory, with a separate pool house and acres of beautiful gardens, is the perfect place to gather for weekend breaks, reunions, celebrations and family holidays.
The house is adorned with enchanting grounds which have recently qualified for the National Garden Scheme. There are acres of gardens to explore and play on, along with a swimming pool, tennis court, five-a-side football pitch and ample seating for alfresco dining in the summer months.
More information about Vicarage House here.
A four night stay for up to 14 people costs around £4500.
Hopton Hall, Derbyshire
A truly special place set in the Derbyshire Dales on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Hopton Hall sits in 30 acres of secure grounds. Hopton is two miles from Wirksworth, ‘The Gem of the Peaks’, famous for its art festivals, well dressings and historic Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.
For over 600 years the Hall was home to the Gell family of Derbyshire and hosted guests including Oliver Cromwell, Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Caroline. Its courtyard has been refurbished to create four comfortable, homely cottages where families and groups large and small come together to ‘Meet in the Middle’ of England.
Hopton Hall is home to a historic walled Summer Rose Garden and a private lake.
More information about Hopton Hall here.
A four night stay in the Dovecote at Hopton Hall for 4 people costs around £676.40.
Hoste Barn, Norfolk
Sat within the award-winning landscaped gardens and grounds of a 17th century wool merchant’s manor house is Hoste Barn, a stunning barn conversion sympathetically restored, maintaining all its vernacular past while incorporating many modern features.
Set in North Norfolk, Hoste Barn is ideally situated to explore the North Norfolk coastline, or, keep it botanical with a leisurely stroll through the luscious Potager & Knot gardens and soak in the seasonal blooms.
Hoste Barn is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
More information about Hoste Barn here.
A four night stay for up to 4 people costs around £874.35.
Other top picks include:
Cadhay, Devon – A historic Tudor manor house with three estate cottages, home to magnificent gardens with medieval fishponds.
Old Drift House, Suffolk – An idyllic ‘chocolate box’ thatched cottage in the picturesque town of Kersey. Old Drift House is a 15th Century Grade II thatched cottage steeped with character, and a sweet cottage garden that is typically English, reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.
The Cottages, Ireland – The Cottages in Ireland are a collection of 300-year old thatched cottages, situated in private, gated organic flower gardens in a magical, haven-like setting on 6 miles of sandy beach.
Benallack Barn, Cornwall – A beautiful tone farm complex, dating partly from the 1600s, nestled in glorious countryside near the historic village of Grampound in mid-Cornwall. Tucked away down a long private lane, Benallack Barn is situated in three acres of beautiful gardens and surrounded by fields and woods.
Wharton Lodge Cottages, Herefordshire – Wharton Lodge Cottages are situated in the glorious Wye Valley, adjacent to the scenic Forest of Dean and just 3 miles from the delightful market town of Ross on Wye. The local countryside remains unspoiled and very much undiscovered, perfect for nature lovers and explorers alike.
The Lost Manor, Devon – Tucked away behind towering 12-foot stone walls lies a hidden treasure: The Lost Manor of Chulmleigh – a haven where refined luxury and enchanting seclusion meet. Set in acres of intricate gardens that invite you to wander, with winding paths leading to secret corners perfect for quiet reflection or shared moments.
