13 gorgeous gardens to visit in Surrey this spring

The Best Spring Gardens to visit in Surrey: Where to See Stunning Blooms This Season

Longer days, warmer weather, and a burst of colour—spring is the perfect time to explore Surrey’s most beautiful gardens!  As daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms begin to bloom, it’s time to swap winter walks for vibrant floral displays and picturesque landscapes.

Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Surrey offers some of the most breathtaking spring gardens in the UK.  From historic estates with manicured flowerbeds to hidden gems bursting with seasonal charm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best gardens to visit in Surrey this spring, along with must-see flower festivals showcasing tulips, orchids, and more.  So, if you’re searching for the perfect spring day out in Surrey, let these stunning gardens inspire your next outdoor adventure!

*contains affiliate links

First on our list of the best spring gardens in Surrey is the Valley Gardens at Virginia Water, one of our family favourites.

Located within Windsor Great Park, these pretty gardens have spring flowers from as early as February, when you can see snowdrops in the Heather Gardens.

By March you’ll be greeted with a carpet of golden daffodils, alongside stunning magnolias and camellia, adding a vibrant splash of colour.  As spring reaches its peak, the gardens transform into a breathtaking display of rhododendrons and azaleas around the Punch Bowl.

With such dazzling scenery, it’s easy to see why the Valley Gardens are among the best places to see spring flowers in Surrey.

To extend your visit, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Virginia Water Lake, where you can soak in stunning views and enjoy the fresh spring air.

• Read more:  Springtime at the Valley Gardens in Windsor Park
• Location:  Virginia Water Car Park, GU25 4QF
• Admission:  free

Another of the very best places to see spring flowers in Surrey has to be the breathtaking Hampton Court Palace Gardens.

As you’d expect from a historic royal palace, these gardens are nothing short of spectacular.  Covering 60 acres of formal gardens, they feature ornate fountains, serene ponds, magnificent yew trees, and even the oldest vine in the world!

From early crocuses and golden daffodils in the wild meadow (once Henry VIII’s orchard) to a dazzling display of tulips in April and May, Hampton Court Gardens is a must-visit for flower lovers.  Follow the Tulip Festival trail through the courtyards and gardens, where thousands of blooms create a stunning kaleidoscope of colour, an annual tradition dating back to Queen Mary II (1662-1694).

Beyond the flowers, Hampton Court Palace is perfect for a family day out.  Kids will love exploring one of the UK’s best mazes and the Magic Garden adventure playground, while history enthusiasts can marvel at one of the most famous Tudor palaces in the world.

If you’re looking for a spectacular spring garden in Surrey, Hampton Court Palace should be at the top of your list!

• Read more:  Tulip Festival at Hampton Court Palace
• Location:  Hampton Court Way, Molesey, KT8 9AU
• Admission: Hampton Court Palace

Just south of Guildford, Loseley Park is a stunning Surrey country estate known for its breathtaking walled gardens.  Set beside the grand Loseley House, this 2.5-acre garden is one of the most beautiful historic gardens in Surrey, meticulously cared for over hundreds of years.

Within its ancient walls, you’ll discover five themed garden rooms, each offering a unique floral experience.  Wander through the Rose Garden, be inspired by the Flower Garden, explore the Vegetable Garden, breathe in the scents of the Herb Garden, and admire the elegance of the White Garden—a true hidden gem in the Surrey countryside.

Spring is an exciting time to visit Loseley Park, as it hosts the annual Loseley Garden Show.  This three-day event, running from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st April 2024, is a must for gardening enthusiasts.  Expect expert talks, hands-on activities, and an opportunity to shop for plants, tools, and garden décor.

If you’re looking for a picturesque garden in Surrey with historic charm, Loseley Park’s walled garden is not to be missed!

• Location:  Loseley Park, Guildford, GU3 1HS
• Admission:  Loseley Park

Nestled in the heart of Guildford, the Guildford Castle Gardens offer a peaceful retreat just moments from the bustling High Street.  Opened in 1888 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, these charming gardens provide a picturesque escape with beautifully maintained floral displays that change throughout the seasons.

In spring, vibrant daffodils surround the ancient Norman keep, while colourful flowerbeds which change with the season.  Whether you’re looking for a tranquil spot to relax on a park bench or a scenic stroll through historic surroundings, this hidden gem is one of the best free gardens to visit in Surrey.

At the rear of the castle, you’ll find a bowling green and a whimsical Alice in Wonderland statue, a tribute to Lewis Carroll, who once lived nearby.

For those seeking a historic garden in Surrey with stunning spring flowers, Guildford Castle Gardens are well worth a visit!

• Read more: Finding Alice in Wonderland in Guildford
• Location:  Castle Street, Guildford, GU1 3SX
• Admission:  free

As one of the UK’s most renowned gardens, RHS Wisley is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves plants, flowers, and beautifully designed landscapes.  Spanning an impressive 240 acres, this world-class garden is home to an extraordinary collection of plants, shrubs, and trees, offering endless inspiration for gardeners of all levels.  Without a doubt, it ranks among the best gardens to visit in Surrey.

The gardens at Wisley are divided into distinct themed areas, each offering a unique horticultural experience.  Some highlights include the Rock Garden, the scenic Lavender Hill Viewing Point, and the breathtaking Glasshouse, which houses exotic plant species from around the world.

For families, RHS Wisley is one of the best Surrey gardens to visit with children.  The Glasshouse is a favourite among young visitors, while the new adventure play area and vast green spaces provide plenty of room for kids to run, explore, and enjoy nature.  It’s an ideal place to meet with friends.

If you’re searching for the best places to see spring flowers in Surrey, RHS Wisley is a top choice, offering a spectacular seasonal display and a fantastic day out for all ages!

• Location:  RHS Wisley, Woking, GU23 6QB
• Admission:  RHS Wisley (Admission is free for RHS members.  Click here for details of RHS membership.)

For those who love a diverse collection of plants and flowers, The Savill Garden is a must-visit.  Part of Windsor Great Park, this breathtaking 35-acre ornamental garden is home to an extraordinary variety of seasonal displays from around the world, making it one of the best gardens to visit in Surrey this spring.

Springtime at The Savill Garden is a true spectacle, with vibrant daffodils, tulips, and magnolias in full bloom.  The Conifer Lawn transforms into a sea of colour with thousands of crocuses, while rare and exotic plants add to the garden’s charm.

Families will love visiting The Savill Garden, especially now that the new Adventure Play area is open. (Please note that there is an additional admission charge for the playground.)

With beautifully landscaped grounds, diverse plant collections, and plenty of open space, this is the perfect place for a spring day out in Surrey.  You can also combine this with a visit to Virginia Water Lake.

• Location:  Wick Lane, Englefield Green, Egham, TW20 0UJ
• Admission:  The Savill Garden

One of the prettiest spring gardens in Surrey, Ramster Gardens in Chiddingfold is a true hidden gem.  Covering 25 acres of mature woodland, this enchanting garden is a must-visit for those seeking spectacular seasonal colour and a peaceful countryside escape.

Reopening on 22nd March 2025, Ramster Gardens bursts into life with a breathtaking display of azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias at their peak in early May.

As you wander through the winding pathways, you can also enjoy a collection of outdoor sculptures, showcased as part of the Surrey Sculpture Exhibition.  This is a unique event that blends art and nature in a stunning setting.  The family-friendly sculpture exhibition runs from 2nd May to 1st June 2025, and entry is included with garden admission, making this a fantastic spring day out in Surrey for both nature lovers and art enthusiasts.

• Read more:  A visit to Ramster Gardens, Surrey
• Location:  Petworth Road, Chiddingfold, Godalming, GU8 4SN
• Admission:  Ramster Gardens

For a stunning early spring garden in Surrey, Gatton Park near Reigate is a must-visit.

Designed by the landscape architect Capability Brown, Gatton Park is historic parkland offers sweeping views of the Surrey countryside.

Gatton Park is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month, providing an opportunity for the public to visit.  In early spring, visitors can enjoy Snowdrop Days, when the Rock Garden is transformed by a delicate blanket of snowdrops, creating a truly magical seasonal display.

If you’re looking for one of the best Surrey gardens to visit in early spring, Gatton Park’s historic charm, scenic landscapes, and beautiful seasonal flowers make it a perfect choice!

• Location:  Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW
• Admission:  Gatton Park

Dunsborough Park in Ripley is a stunning stately home set within 100 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.  The gardens are divided into distinct garden rooms, each with its own theme of flowers.  Among the most popular areas are the Mediterranean Garden, the Old Rose Garden, and the walled garden.

In spring, the gardens come alive with a vibrant kaleidoscope of tulips, making it one of the best spring gardens in Surrey to visit.  The array of colours and floral displays are truly spectacular, making it a must-see for flower lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Dunsborough Park is open to the public on select days as part of the National Garden Scheme.  This year, you can enjoy the Spring Garden Open Days on 16th, 19th-20th, and 25th-26th April 2025.  The gardens are open from 11am – 4pm, but be sure to book in advance as these dates can fill up quickly.

If you’re looking for one of the best spring gardens in Surrey, Dunsborough Park is a hidden gem not to be missed!

• Location: Ripley, nr Woking, Surrey (Use Sat nav ref:  GU23 6BZ)
• Admission:  Dunsborough Park

Just over the border from Surrey, Kew Gardens in southwest London is a world-class botanical garden and one of the best UK gardens to visit year-round.  With one of the world’s largest and most diverse plant collections, Kew Gardens offers an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colour, thanks to a dedicated team of gardeners who ensure spectacular displays in every season.

In early spring, visitors can enjoy vibrant blooms of crocuses, snowdrops, and daffodils, followed by the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms and magnolias later in the season. These stunning displays make Kew Gardens one of the best places to see spring flowers near Surrey.

Aside from its formal gardens, Kew Gardens also features an incredible natural play garden for children, complete with a canopy walk, making it a family-friendly attraction.

If you’re visiting before spring, don’t miss the annual Orchid Festival (from 1st February to 2nd March 2025).  Held in the Princess of Wales glasshouse, this special horticultural event showcases amazing displays of Peruvian plants and animals.  Admission to this orchid spectacular is included with entry to the gardens, but a time slot you must book a time slot in advance.

For a beautiful garden near Surrey, Kew Gardens is a must-see, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers of all ages!

• Location:  Kew Gardens, Brentford Gate, Ferry Lane, TW9 3AF
• Information:  Kew Gardens

Just over the borders of Surrey, Leonardslee Gardens is one of West Sussex’s finest gardens in the region.  This Grade-1 listed garden is renowned for its stunning collection of rare species from around the world, as well as its beautiful ancient trees and vibrant spring flowers.

In spring, the gardens come to life with an incredible array of colourful blooms, making it one of the best gardens near Surrey to visit during this time of year.

In addition to its horticultural delights, Leonardslee Gardens is a fantastic family-friendly destination.  The estate is home to free-roaming wallabies, a fascinating sculpture trail, and even a Doll’s House Museum.  For younger visitors, there’s a new adventure playground, ensuring that the whole family has a great time.

For a unique garden experience near Surrey, Leonardslee Gardens offers a mix of nature, art, and fun for all ages!

• Read more:  Leonardslee Gardens & Lakes
• Location:  Brighton Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PP
• Admission:  Adults from £15.50 and children from £9

Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit the Isabella Plantation, a stunning 40-acre woodland garden nestled in the heart of Richmond Park.  Known for its breathtaking display of azaleas and rhododendrons, the gardens come alive in late spring.

Located just outside of Surrey and easily accessible by train from London, the Isabella Plantation offers visitors a peaceful escape in a Victorian-style garden. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic place to unwind, the Isabella Plantation provides the perfect setting to enjoy the beauty of spring.

For those looking for a stunning spring garden near Surrey or London, the Isabella Plantation is an absolute gem!

• Read more:  Exploring Richmond Park in London
• Location:  Richmond Park, TW10 5HS
• Admission:  free

Nestled beside the River Thames near Richmond, Ham House is a stunning 17th-century estate with elegant gardens.  Styled by the Duchess of Lauderdale, who once lived there, the gardens are a delightful place to visit year-round.

In spring, the gardens come alive with colour from thousands of crocuses, tulips, and muscari carpeting the lawns.  This vibrant floral display makes Ham House one of the best spring gardens near Surrey.

As the season progresses, visitors can enjoy the formal lavender displays that begin in mid-June.  Ham House also boasts a charming kitchen garden, where seasonal flowers, fruits, and vegetables are grown. These fresh ingredients are used to supply the Orangery Café, offering visitors the chance to enjoy delicious seasonal produce.  On a warm day, you can sit outside the café to enjoy the stunning garden views.

If you’re looking for a spring garden near Richmond or Surrey, Ham House offers a perfect mix of history, beautiful blooms, and scenic surroundings.

• Read more:  A visit to Ham House & Gardens
• Location:  Ham House, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RS
• Admission: free to National Trust members

Another fantastic place to embrace spring is the Woodland Gardens in Bushy Park.  Located opposite Hampton Court Palace, this royal park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly features, making it an ideal spot for all to ages to enjoy.

As spring unfolds, you’ll find vibrant displays of daffodils, camellia, azaleas, and rhododendrons, creating a colourful backdrop at the park.  The Woodland Gardens features both formal areas with streams and water features, as well as natural play areas for kids.  This makes it a popular choice for local families.

On the other side of the park, you’ll find a large children’s playground, adding to the park’s family-friendly appeal.  Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the hundreds of deer that roam freely through the park.  Alternatively,  cross the park to visit the royal gardens at Hampton Court Palace.

Whether you’re seeking a spring garden near Surrey or a family day out, the Woodland Gardens in Bushy Park provides the perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and fun!

• Read more:  10 Best things to do at Bushy Park
• Location:  Bushy Park, TW11 0EQ
• Admission:  Free

Here’s a map to help you find the best gardens in and around Surrey:

Have you been to any of these gorgeous gardens in Surrey?  We’d love to hear your comments below.

You may also like:

• A visit to West Green House Gardens in Hampshire
• A visit to Snowshill Manor & Gardens, Cotswolds
• Our 9 best walks in the Surrey Hills
• 7 fantastic outdoor places in Surrey to take kids
• A family visit to Batsford Arboretum, Cotswolds

Pin for later:  13 gorgeous gardens you must visit in Surrey this spring

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn some money at no cost to you if you click on one. (Read our full Disclosure Policy)