June is a lovely time to explore the countryside around Ludlow. While walking remains one of the best ways to enjoy this part of Shropshire, early summer is also the perfect season for visiting some of the beautiful gardens within easy reach of St Milburga Chapel.
One of the joys of staying near Ludlow is being so well placed to explore not only south Shropshire, but also neighbouring Worcestershire, where there are a number of wonderful gardens to discover. From formal planting and historic parkland to woodland walks and peaceful walled gardens, there are plenty of places to spend a relaxed afternoon wandering amongst the flowers, enjoying the scenery and perhaps stopping for coffee and cake along the way.
Whether you are looking for a gentle day out, somewhere peaceful to unwind or simply an excuse to enjoy the early summer sunshine, here are some of our favourite gardens to visit near Ludlow.
Hodnet Hall Gardens, Hodnet, Shropshire
Just over one hour’s drive from St Milburga Chapel, this beautiful and historic garden is open Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays and bank holiday Mondays from March until the end of October. There are a number of distinct “gardens within the garden” from a traditional walled kitchen garden to the less tamed water garden and a peaceful Japanese inspired garden. Set over 60 acres with varied planting and terrain and a focus on encouraging wildlife, there is always something new to explore. They have a restaurant using locally sourced produce for lunch, coffee and cake or even afternoon tea. For more information including ticket prices and opening times visit: https://www.hodnethallgardens.org/
Wildgoose Nursery and Garden, Craven Arms, Shropshire
If you’d like to visit somewhere where you can also purchase plants for your own garden, how about a trip to Wildgoose Nursery? Situated near Craven Arms, just 20 mins drive from Stoke St Milborough, this is a specialist nursery set within an historic walled garden. Open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from March until the end of September, they are especially known for their colourful perennial borders with the garden acting as a showcase and testing ground for the plants that they sell. Abandoned since the 1960’s, the garden and glasshouse were sympathetically restored 10 years ago. The garden has a tearoom with fantastic views across the Shropshire Hills serving light lunches, drinks and homemade cakes. For further information visit: https://www.wildegoosenursery.co.uk/
Dudmaston Hall and Gardens, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire
For a historic house as well as a beautiful garden, Dudmaston is hard to beat. Situated just over 30 mins from St Milburga Chapel, Dudmaston Hall and Gardens is owned by the National Trust and is free to members. The gardens as extensive with terraces and open grassy areas sweeping down to the lake. It is well known for its herbaceous borders as well as its collection of roses. The garden also plays host to a contemporary sculpture display dotted around the grounds. Afterwards you can enjoy a range of snacks, cakes and bakes in the Orchard Tea-room. For opening times and details of prices visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/shropshire-staffordshire/dudmaston
Arley Arboretum, Bewdley, Worcestershire
Arley Arboretum is a 40 min drive from Stoke St Milborough and is open Wednesdays through to Sundays from March through to the end of December. Situated on the banks of the River Severn, it is one of the oldest arboretums in the UK with over 300 species of tree from all over the world. The star attraction now has to be the Laburnum Arch in full flower from the end of May to mid-June. Another popular spot is the restored Italianate Garden with its fountains and formal planting. There is a popular tearoom with delicious, locally sourced dishes and both indoor and outdoor seating. For more information visit: https://www.arleyestate.co.uk/
Whether you spend the day wandering through formal borders, exploring historic parkland or simply sitting with a coffee admiring the view, these gardens offer the perfect excuse to slow down and relax. And for those planning an early summer break near Ludlow, St Milburga Chapel provides the perfect base for exploring Shropshire and beyond.