Gardens in Lincolnshire: Beautiful Gardens & Estates near Washingborough Hall

Classic estate gardens and stately homes for year-round wow factor

Some of the most special gardens in Lincolnshire belong to historic houses and estates that have evolved over centuries. These places are especially appealing as they combine impressive architecture, remarkable landscape design and maintained land. 

Doddington Hall and Gardens, just outside Lincoln, is one of the county’s most admired estate gardens. The gardens include formal lawns, a long herbaceous border and a productive kitchen garden that supplies the estate cafe and farm shop. 

In spring the gardens begin to bloom, filling with snowdrops and daffodils, while summer brings a pop of colour from roses and mixed borders. There is ample parking onsite and estate walks through surrounding parkland.

Another popular garden destination is Gunby Hall, a National Trust property on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. 

Here, you can explore the 17th Century house before wandering through the Victorian walled garden and orchard. Seasonal highlights include early spring bulbs and summer planting displays while an onsite tearoom provides classic English refreshments and sweet treats.

For those who enjoy both landscape and history, Belton Estate near Grantham is another National Trust estate worth visiting. The formal gardens and surrounding parkland offer long walking routes, woodland paths and wide lawns, creating a wonderful estate experience.

Walled gardens, formal gardens and “planty” places for enthusiasts

If your interest lies in planting design specifically, borders and horticulture, there are several Lincolnshire gardens that you’ll enjoy.

Easton Walled Gardens, located about an hour from Lincoln, is one of the most celebrated garden restorations in the region. 

It was once part of a lost country house estate and today, the gardens have been carefully rebuilt with sweeping borders, meadow planting and traditional walled garden areas. 

Another recommended location is Burghley House Gardens, where the grand estate landscape includes formal terraces, sculpture gardens and quiet woodland walks. The grounds here combine traditional landscaping with contemporary planting, creating a garden that changes through the seasons.

Hidden gems and privately opened gardens

You’ll also find further gardens to explore that are owned privately and available to visit during selected hours via the National Garden Scheme.

The scheme allows garden owners to welcome visitors, often in support of charitable causes. Though smaller in size, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that such a visit offers a more personal experience, with imaginative planting, cottage-style borders and carefully tended spaces that reflect the owner’s passion for gardening.

It’s best to consult the National Garden Scheme directory before planning a visit. The listings include details on access, parking and whether refreshments are available.

You may discover compact town gardens, rural cottage gardens or larger country properties with orchards and wildlife areas. They offer a different perspective on gardens in Lincolnshire and are often among the most memorable places to visit.

Practical planning from Washingborough Hall

Staying near Lincoln places you within comfortable driving distance of many of the best gardens in Lincolnshire. From Washingborough Hall, you can easily explore several garden areas across the county.

To the east, the Lincolnshire Wolds offers estates and countryside gardens surrounded by rolling farmland. To the south and west, the landscape opens into The Fens, where large historic estates sit within wide, flat countryside. 

Around Lincoln itself, you will find a selection of gardens and parks that make ideal half day outings.

If you’d like more garden and estate ideas near the hotel, explore our guide to houses and gardens for additional inspiration.

A garden-lover’s stay at Washingborough Hall

For guests who enjoy beautiful landscapes and peaceful surroundings, Washingborough Hall offers an ideal base for discovering the many gardens in Lincolnshire.

The hotel itself sits within attractive grounds just outside the historic city of Lincoln. Its countryside setting allows you to begin the day with a relaxed breakfast before setting out to explore nearby estates, formal gardens and countryside walks.

After a day visiting Lincolnshire gardens, returning to the calm atmosphere of our house is the perfect way to wind down. You’ll be greeted by a comfortable four-star room and excellent dining options, providing a real sense of relaxation.

Check availability online and book a stay that allows you to experience the changing seasons across the county’s most beautiful Lincolnshire gardens, from spring bulbs and summer borders to peaceful autumn walks.

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