If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than Biddulph Grange Garden.
The garden is home to more than 3,000 species of plants from all over the world. It also features an impressive collection of trees that are hundreds of years old, including one oak tree that was already standing when William Shakespeare was alive. You can even find some rare specimens like the Chinese swamp cypress planted by Queen Victoria herself in 1873.
With so many different types of flora on display at this hidden gem in Staffordshire, it’s easy to forget about your problems while exploring this tranquil oasis. So what are you waiting for? Come visit us today!
What is Biddulph Grange Garden
Biddulph Grange Garden is a garden in Staffordshire, England. It was designed by James Bateman in 1842. The garden contains a range of different features, including an Italianate terrace, a rock garden, and a yew maze.
The History of Biddulph Grange Garden
The current garden is the result of several generations of Batemans who have imposed their personal stamp on it. The history of Biddulph Grange Garden started with James Bateman, who was born in 1811 at Leintwardine in Herefordshire (now part of Herefordshire). His father, Thomas Bateman, was a successful mill owner. However, James had artistic inclinations that were not shared by his father, so he was sent to work at an iron foundry in Worcester. He also studied painting with John Martin (1789–1854).
Because of his artistic leanings, Bateman became friends with the Pre-Raphaelite painters, who were interested in the ‘real’ countryside, which they contrasted with the formal gardens that were popular at the time.
Their interest was part of a general trend towards nature during this period. A particularly important aspect of Bateman’s work was his study of wildflowers and plants for their own sake, rather than as components of formal ornamental gardens. His first garden at Biddulph Grange was inspired by the pioneering work of his friend William Robinson (1838–1935), who had stressed the need for wildflower meadows in place of over-formalized gardening.
Biddulph Grange is one of the best-preserved examples of this style, which was to predominate in the garden design of the late nineteenth century. Another important influence on Bateman’s work at Biddulph was gardening at Tintinhull, Somerset. Bateman had visited the village with his friend William Robinson, and he admired their wildflower meadow style of planting. He became acquainted with John Thorne, who was the head gardener there. Thorne became Bateman’s chief gardener at Biddulph for many years.
Bateman’s work with flowers served several purposes. First of all, he was interested in botany and wanted to study wild plants growing in their natural habitat. At the same time, his interest in flowers as part of a wider reaction against the formal gardens that were popular at the time. His method is summarized in his book ‘The Wild Garden’ (1870).
The Batemans moved to Biddulph Grange in Staffordshire after his marriage to Maria in 1842, hence one can now refer to it as ‘the Bateman’s Grange’. It is very likely that they started to develop the garden at Biddulph Grange before they moved in, as it is known that some of the plants came from the Featherstone Castle nursery.
The Batemans intended to make a radical break with gardening traditions, and James was particularly critical of ‘perpetual parterres’. The Grange garden was clearly inspired by the art of William Robinson, which James Bateman described as ‘the greatest authority on rustic gardening’ at the time.
Although the layout of the original gardens has been modified considerably since then, it remained remarkably unchanged until 1985 when local historian Chris Pickford discovered old photographs and other evidence about the layout of the original garden. The current picture gallery displays some of this material. Work started on restoring the historic gardens at Biddulph Grange in 1986 and was completed by 1988. The planting and structure were restored to their 1885 state while retaining several features from the 1860s and 1870s that survived intact.
The restoration of the gardens illustrates a particular period in the development of the garden, but it also helped to save several important features from destruction. For example, a number of trees and shrubs were saved from being removed by the council when they started to implement their ‘Improvement Scheme’. These included a fine specimen of “Aesculus turbinata” (Bottlebrush Buckeye) and a “Magnolia stellata” (Star Magnolia). The “Aesculus turbinata” that we see today in the Palm House was originally planted by James Bateman.
The restoration also opened up previously inaccessible parts of the gardens such as the Rock Garden, which consists of a series of terraces cut into the hillside below the house. The planting and structure of this garden were restored to their 1885 state, but again we have retained some features from earlier periods. In particular, a number of rock plants that were either reintroduced or replanted in the Rock Garden date from 1848.
The restoration took note of the features that had survived intact since Victorian times and re-introduced many plants that would have been present at this time. There are also a series of features such as the yew walk, the laburnum walk, and the old kitchen garden that date from Victorian times which we have retained in their historic state.
For several years after the restoration, the gardens were open to the public. The Biddulph Grange is now a Grade II* listed building and the gardens are included in the English Heritage Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest.
In August 2006, Historic England gave Biddulph Grange Garden’s restoration its highest possible accolade by grading it as “outstanding”. source
The Grounds at Biddulph Grange
The grounds at Biddulph Grange are maintained by a team of gardeners who work tirelessly to keep the gardens looking their best. The gardens are divided into several different areas, each of which has its own unique features. The gardeners are always adding new plants and flowers to the gardens, so there is always something new to see.
In the front of Biddulph Grange is a rose garden created by the previous owners. It features many yellow roses which are a memorial to a family member who was called Dawn. At the back of Biddulph Grange is a Japanese-style tea house and herb garden, these were added after being given to Lady Mountbatten by the Japanese Government. There are also formal gardens, a vegetable garden, and even an area to grow your own herbs.
How to get to Biddulph Grange
By cycle
Route 55 along the Biddulph Valley Way is a popular cycling route (old railway tracks). Well Lane / Marsh Green is the exit. Turn left into the A527, then right into Grange Road after passing the church and graveyard on the right. The entrance to Biddulph Grange Garden is 50 yards on the right. Sheffield cycling racks may be found at the tourist welcome area in the vehicle lot.
On foot
From Biddulph town center, there is a footpath along the A527 that leads north towards Congleton for 1 mile. Turn right into Grange Road after passing St Lawrence church and churchyard on your right. The entrance to Biddulph Grange Garden is on your right after 50 meters. Cycle route 55 along the former railway tracks is an alternative walking route; see instructions by cycle.
By road
Congleton is 312 miles southeast, while Stoke-on-Trent is 7 miles north. A527 provides access (Tunstall to Congleton road). Grange Road entrance is free for National Trust members.
By train
Congleton 2½ miles
By bus
From the town of Congleton (passing Congleton train station) source
Opening times at Biddulph Grange
Garden (10:00 am- 3:30 pm)
Shop (11:00 am – 3:30 pm)
Tea-room (10:00 am – 3:00 pm) source
Entry Prices for Biddulph Grange Gardens
Under Gift Aid
- Adult- £12.10
- Child- £6.05
- Family- £30.25
- 1 adult, 2 children- £18.15
- Group Adult- N/A
Under Standard
- Adult- £11.00
- Child- £5.50
- Family- £27.50
- 1 adult, 2 children- £16.50
- Group Adult- £9.90 source
What to See and Do at Biddulph Grange Garden
1. Explore the Collection of Trees and Plants at Your Leisure
As you wander around Biddulph Grange Garden, make sure to stop and take a close look at all the plants and trees. This garden has a variety of collections from all over the world including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Himalayas, and South America. You’ll find trees and plants from different climate zones so you can get an idea of what life might be like in these locations. There’s also a large selection of native UK plants, so it’s easy to see how they differ from other species and why they’re important for the development of gardens.
2. Take a Seat and Have a Hot or Cold Drink
If you need to take a break, Biddulph Grange Garden has three tearooms where you can enjoy an array of hot and cold drinks and snacks. When it’s cold outside, the tearoom is the perfect place to warm up with a hot chocolate or tea. During the summer months, you can relax with ice cream or a cold drink.
3. Wander Around Percy’s Winter Woes Trail
If it’s winter and you want to enjoy the garden in a festive way, stop by the Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Woes trail. This trail is family-friendly, so all ages can wander through the snow-covered landscape. The way this trail is set up, you’ll see different scenes from Percy’s adventures in a beautiful snowy environment. So if you’re looking for something fun to do in the winter months, take a look at this wander trail!
4. Visit Biddulph Grange Garden Throughout the Year
When it comes to visiting Biddulph Grange Garden, you have the option of doing so throughout the year. This garden is open daily except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. So if it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter outside, you can visit this plant-filled oasis whenever you’d like!
5. Try a Delicious Snack or Meal at Tearooms
When it comes to enjoying snacks and meals at Biddulph Grange Garden, you have two tearooms to choose from. The Camellia House is located near the gift shop, so this is the perfect place to stop after perusing the gift shop. Here, you can enjoy a variety of hot drinks including tea, coffee, and cocoa. You’ll also find some tasty snacks on the menu including cakes. The Bateman’s tearoom is located near the Grange Hall so if you visit Biddulph Grange Garden for an event or meeting, this is the perfect location to go after. This tearoom has a good selection of hot drinks including tea, coffee, and chai. Plus, they offer some healthy snacks like fruit pots and nuts.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit to Biddulph Grange Garden
- Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in one of the many secluded areas to avoid crowds
- Bring your camera for photos with friends or family to capture memories that last forever
- Take a walk around the garden to explore all its beauty – you’ll be surprised by what you find!
- Visit during different seasons for new perspectives on this historic site.
- Stay for a few drinks and nibbles at the café before visiting the Museum Shop to buy unique gifts & souvenirs!
- Look out for events running during your visit – from talks to walks, there’s always something new going on.
- Follow Biddulph Grange Garden on social media to receive updates on events, offers, and more!
Other Places Nearby
1. Little Moreton Hall
The first place nearby Biddulph Grange Garden is Little Moreton Hall, which is a 16th-century half-timbered manor house. It’s one of the finest examples of vernacular architecture in the country.
2. Rudyard Lake
Another place nearby is Rudyard Lake, which is a picturesque lake that offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, sailing, and rowing. There’s also plenty of wildlife, which makes the lake an excellent place for bird watching.
3. Cloudside Shooting Ground
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Escape Stoke is a great place to go. They offer escape rooms and an indoor play area. On the way to Biddulph Grange Garden, you can also stop at Cloudside Shooting Ground. They offer clay pigeon shooting and archery.
4. Escape Stoke
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Escape Stoke is a great place to go. They offer escape rooms and an indoor play area. On the way to Biddulph Grange Garden, you can also stop at Cloudside Shooting Ground. They offer clay pigeon shooting and archery.
5. Knypersley Reservoir
Finally, Knypersley Reservoir is a great place to enjoy fishing, water sports, and bird watching. It’s just a short drive from Biddulph Grange Garden. To get to Biddulph Grange Garden from the A34, head north along the A52 and turn right onto Biddulph Road in Biddulph Moor. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a car park on your right. source
Conclusion
Visiting Biddulph Grange Garden is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With so many different things you can do while visiting, there’s something for every visitor! Whether it be a walk around the gardens, taking in some culture at Little Moreton Hall or Rudyard Lake, enjoying delicious snacks and meals at one of the tearooms, or trying your hand at clay pigeon shooting or archery, this historic site has plenty to offer visitors. You’ll also find that there are lots of events happening throughout the year which will give you time to explore more than just what’s inside these beautiful grounds. If you’re looking for an escape from reality but don’t want too much adventure on the day, Biddulph Grange Garden is the perfect place to visit!
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