Stowe is a garden and landscape park in England.
It is one of the finest of Georgian landscape gardens comprising valleys and vistas, narrow lakes and rivers with more than 30 temples and monuments, designed by leading architects of the 18th-century. The parkland was created between 1720 and 1840 by three generations of the family who owned it until 1944 when it passed into public ownership. It’s an ideal place to relax in peace or enjoy activities such as walking, cycling, or fishing.
You can explore this beautiful English garden at your own pace while taking in its stunning views over the surrounding countryside. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with local community events that take place throughout the year including open days, guided walks, music concerts and art exhibitions. And if you want to stay overnight there are two hotels on-site – so you can make a real weekend out of your visit!
What is Stowe Landscape Garden
Stowe Landscape Garden is a Georgian landscape garden in Buckinghamshire, England. It was created in the 18th century by Capability Brown and Humphry Repton. The garden is open to the public and includes a number of features, including valleys and vistas, narrow lakes and rivers, and more than 30 temples and monuments.
The garden was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is one of the finest landscape gardens in England and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or gardening. source
The History of Stowe Landscape Garden
The Stowe Landscape Garden is located in Buckinghamshire, England. The Stowe Landscape Garden was originally created between 1743 and 1765. The property of this garden has been owned by many people; among them are Sir George Gifford MP and Knight. He willed the property to his son Thomas Gifford who then passed it on to his son George Gifford.
It was handed down to his son and he passed it on to his father. The last person who inherited the property was Lord Charles Temple, Viscount Cobham. He did not own the property for long and sold it in 1749.
The garden is known as one of the finest examples of English landscape gardens in existence today. The garden master plan was created by an English architect and garden designer William Kent, who transformed the small pond into a theatrical setting for the house. The garden is filled with sculptures of fine arts.
It has been said that this garden is, “the best example in Europe of English landscape design at its most evolved.” This garden shows how human interaction can change nature to create different emotions.
The Grounds at Stowe Landscape
The grounds at Stowe Landscape Garden have been arranged around the 18th century Palladian mansion. The gardens were developed by the 4th Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, who employed Capability Brown to design the landscape in 1764. Brown created a series of lakes, hills, and woodlands that extend from the house to the edge of the village of Stowe. The duke also employed Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’s nephew, Humphry Repton, who continued to develop the landscape in the 19th century. Repton added picturesque features such as Gothic ruins, temples, and bridges.
The gardens were open to the public from 1786, and have been a popular tourist attraction ever since. In recent years the garden has been restored to its original 18th-century design.
Today, Stowe Landscape Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to get to Stowe Landscape
On foot
1½ miles from Buckingham, take a stroll up Stowe Avenue for monumental views to arrive at The New Inn.
By train
There are a number of train stations nearby: Bicester North 9 miles; Milton Keynes Central 14 miles. Taxis are available at all stations. Direct connections from London Marylebone and Euston stations both with only a 50-minute journey.
By road
3 miles northwest of Buckingham town, just off the A422 Buckingham to Banbury Road. From M40 take exits 9 to 11, from M1 exits 13 or 15a. Stowe is signposted with brown tourist information signs from local routes. Entry to National Trust Stowe Gardens is via Stowe Avenue only. Turn right in front of the Corinthian Arch and approach the car park slowly. Check your route before you travel.
By bus
Stagecoach X5 bus runs Oxford to Cambridge stops in Buckingham town, 1.5 miles from Stowe. The Arriva X60 bus runs from Aylesbury to Milton Keynes, stopping in Buckingham town, 1.5 miles from Stowe. On arrival at Buckingham High Street, walk uphill and on to West Street, continuing on the A422 until you reach a right turn for Stowe Avenue. Follow the 1.5-mile avenue until you reach the New Inn. source
Opening times at Stowe Landscape
- Garden (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Cafe (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Park (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Parlour Rooms and Bookshop (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Shop (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
Entry Prices for Stowe Landscape Garden
- adult is £19.80,
- child is £9.90,
- family is £49.50, and
- family one adult is £29.70.
- On the other hand, the standard for adult is £18.00,
- child is £9.00, family is £45.00, and family one adult is £27.00.
What to See and Do at Stowe Landscape Garden
1. The New Inn is a great place to start your visit. It has a restaurant, brewery, and coffee shop.
2. Adventure with Percy the Keeper is a fun way to learn about the garden.
3. Visit Stowe House for a tour of the estate.
4. Dog walking is allowed on the grounds and there are plenty of trails to explore.
5. Parkland strolls are a great way to enjoy the beauty of the garden. There are plenty of benches to stop and enjoy the view.
6. The cafe is a great place to have a snack or lunch. There is also a gift shop on site.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit to Stowe Landscape Garden
- Visit the Visitor’s Center
- Take a guided tour of the grounds
- Explore on your own with maps and brochures available at the Visitor’s Center
- Purchase plants, trees, or shrubs from our nursery to enjoy in your own garden at home
- Pick up some seeds for planting this year!
- Sign up for one of our upcoming workshops (classes fill quickly!)
- Enjoy a delicious meal after your visit in our Garden Café
- Relax in the Visitor’s Center courtyard and take in the beauty of the garden
- Shop in our gift shop for unique items made by local artisans
- Tell your friends and family about your wonderful experience at Stowe Landscape Garden
Other Places Nearby
Stowe Landscape Garden is just one of many places you can visit when in the area, below are six other things to do nearby.
1. Buckingham Chantry Chapel, Buckinghamshire
The tranquil Stowe Chantry Chapel was built into the side of a hill and is an enchanting place for quiet reflection. The chantry is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a Grade I listed building.
2. Claydon, Buckinghamshire
The 18th century home of the Temple family, Claydon House is now open to the public. The house has been restored to its former glory with beautiful period rooms and furniture on display.
3. Canons Ashby, Northamptonshire
The romantic ruin of Canons Ashby is set amongst picturesque Northamptonshire countryside and makes for a beautiful day out. The house is managed by the National Trust and features interesting landscaped gardens in which you can wander around, enjoying the deer roaming freely.
4. Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire
The lavish Waddesdon Manor is a 19th century Rothschild estate that has been lovingly preserved. The manor is now open to the public and boasts an impressive art collection, exquisite architecture, and beautiful gardens.
5. Boarstall Duck Decoy, Buckinghamshire
This delightful duck decoy is a place where you can come and watch wild ducks up close. The decoy is a network of lakes and canals where the ducks come to feed and is a great place for birdwatching.
6. Boarstall Tower, Buckinghamshire
This imposing tower was built in the 14th century as part of the Boarstall estate. The tower is open to the public and offers wonderful views of the Buckinghamshire countryside. source
Conclusion
There is a wide range of activities that you can enjoy while visiting Stowe Landscape Garden. Whether you want to take a guided tour, explore on your own with maps and brochures available at the Visitor’s Center, purchase plants or trees from our nursery, sign up for one of our upcoming workshops (classes fill quickly!), have some delicious food afterward in the Garden Café, relax in the courtyard or shop in our gift shop for unique items made by local artisans – there is something for everyone! If you’re looking to visit another area as well but don’t know what else lies nearby- we’ve got six other things to do nearby including Buckingham Chantry Chapel which is just one of many places you can visit when in this part of England.
Learn more about Stowe Landscape Garden