Goodnestone Park Gardens

Goodnestone Park Gardens is a peaceful and romantic garden with historic connections to Jane Austen. The estate has been home to the FitzWalter family for over 300 years, making it one of the loveliest and most enduringly charming gardens in the county. Covering approximately 14 acres, the gardens combine formal design, woodland walks, and sustainable landscaping, offering a serene retreat for visitors.

A Garden of History and Tranquillity

The formal planting around the mansion includes a small box parterre, planted to celebrate the millennium, and carefully curated beds that provide year-round colour. The gravel garden, once a tennis court, leads visitors into the woodland area and the Golden Arboretum, planted in 2001 to celebrate the Golden Wedding of the late Lord and Lady FitzWalter. Walled gardens with a reflective water feature add to the estate’s atmosphere of calm, framed by views of the village church tower.

Wildlife, Sustainability, and Natural Diversity

At the heart of Goodnestone Park Gardens is a commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable gardening. The estate supports a wide range of plants and animals, ensuring that biodiversity thrives alongside carefully designed formal areas. Visitors can enjoy strolling through tranquil woodland paths, discovering hidden corners, and experiencing the harmonious blend of nature and design.

Artisan Café and Visitor Amenities

The former dairy at the garden entrance has been transformed into a welcoming café, offering courtyard seating and a delicious menu of brunch, lunch, and traditional cream teas. Using locally sourced ingredients, including produce from the gardens themselves, the café prepares everything fresh on-site, from bread and pastries to cakes, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the estate.

A Heritage Garden Experience

Whether drawn by its historic connections to Jane Austen, its stunning formal plantings, or its peaceful woodlands, Goodnestone Park Gardens offers a heritage experience rich in charm and character. Ideal for families, garden enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a serene escape, the estate invites visitors to explore, unwind, and enjoy centuries of horticultural tradition.