Beyond its luxurious comforts and peaceful spa, Cowley Manor Experimental offers a lesser-known but very special attraction: its magnificent gardens and grounds. Enveloped by 55 acres of meadows and pastures, this is a place where history, nature, and modern recreation come together to create a perfect escape.

A story of centuries past

At the heart of the grounds lies a historic Italianate garden, dating back to the 19th century. Here, ancient trees—including towering ginkgo biloba, grand Sequoias, and graceful Atlas Blue cedars—tell a story of centuries past.

The garden’s design is brought to life by seven natural springs, which feed a series of tranquil lakes and a Grade II listed water-staircase. This impressive feature, adorned with fountains and pools, flows gently through the landscape, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.

Home of birds and wildlife

Guests and visitors to the hotel are invited to immerse themselves in this verdant paradise. Early risers can enjoy the peaceful sounds of birdsong from woodpeckers and kingfishers, and throughout the day, swans can often be seen going about their lives on the lake.

Guided and audio tours

For a deeper look into the history and horticulture of the estate, you can join Head Gardener David for a fascinating guided tour. His passion and extensive knowledge of the grounds are infectious, making for a truly memorable walk of discovery.

The beauty of Cowley Manor’s grounds is matched only by the variety of activities on offer. Nature lovers can embark on a self-guided Audio Tour of the Gardens, complete with a map and curated playlist. For those seeking a bit of playful relaxation, games of petanque and Jenga are available. The grounds also serve as a perfect backdrop for a picnic-style afternoon tea. With such a wide range of activities, from serene walks to outdoor games, the grounds and gardens of Cowley Manor are an enchanting destination that beckons guests to stay a little longer.

Plan your visit to the Cowley

The garden is open to all, so plan an outing to go visit this wonderful space, and as an added bonus, you can enjoy a drink, an afternoon tea, a meal, a stay, or a spa day at Cowley Manor Experimental when you’re there. Book and plan your visit on cowleymanorexperimental.com.