Surrounding a picturesque manor house, in the vibrant Cotswolds village of Miserden, is a nature lover's dream.
One of the most stunning elements of Miserden estate's garden is its location, with views stretching over the magnificent Golden Valley.
With the garden bursting with life from the beginning of spring right through to the end of autumn, there's lots to see and plenty of space to wander.
SoGlos has rounded up 10 highlights to enjoy whatever the season.
Glorious gardens
Miserden gardens host a range of unique and beautiful plants, ranging from a 400-year-old mulberry tree to meticulously mixed borders. The landscaping was laid out in the 17th century, with the structural planting, including yew hedges influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement.
Recent additions include a secret garden and dahlia cut-flower garden which glows with wonderful colour right through to early November.
Gorgeous Glasshouse Cafe
Located on the edge of the garden with a superb spread of food and drinks, choose from refreshing teas and locally baked cakes to ice cold prosecco and light lunches. Housed in the estate's original 1920s greenhouses, the cafe is a pretty place to unwind after a long walk.
The newly refurbished Glasshouse Cafe is open from 10am to 5pm from Wednesday to Sunday, including bank holidays.
Scrumptious sundowners
Keep an eye on Miserden's social media (@miserden), because as soon as the long-range weather forecast is looking brighter, the team is organising an evening in the Glasshouse Cafe in aid of cancer support charity Maggie’s.
Expect a really relaxed evening with Stroud Brewery beers and When in Rome wines. There'll be scotch eggs and sausage rolls to enjoy while soaking up the summer evening sun and super-chilled vibes.
Sizzling supper club
On Friday 25 and Saturday 26 August 2023, The Camp Kitchen is returning to the Glasshouse Cafe for fusion dishes inspired by cuisines from around the globe. Bringing together a colourful mix of traditional foods with its own signature combinations, the combined experience in the culinary world and Michelin training makes this event one of the highlights of the year.
The wine list is sourced from local merchants Haynes, Hanson and Clark and guests will gather together on long tables. This fantastic evening is one that shouldn't be missed.
Cool candle making
Try out the traditional craft of candle making on Saturday 9 and Saturday 23 September 2023 at a workshop with the founder of Highworth Candles. Nesren Aldiek takes great inspiration from nature to formulate delicate natural fragrances with vegan oils.
In keeping with Miserden's commitment to sustainable living, the ingredients are all handmade in the United Kingdom. Tickets include all workshop materials, full guidance with Aldiek, lunch in the cafe and two Highworth candles to take home.
Jazzy jewellery workshop
On Saturday 16 September 2023, Stina Richardson from Viola Blu jewellery is teaching a group workshop on the intricate design of sterling silver jewellery with beautifully embedded semi-precious stones, in the beautiful Glasshouse Cafe.
Richardson makes necklaces, bracelets and earrings from gold and silver, decorating with pearls and gemstones with distinct patterns of simplicity and elegance. The workshop includes materials, tea or coffee in the cafe as well as light treats and free entry to the garden on the day.
Children’s cooking morning
The Cotswold Cookery School is hosting a fun and practical cookery session for children in the Glasshouse Cafe on Saturday 2 September 2023 to give youngsters an engaging introduction to culinary skills. This workshop shows children the foundation of good food and healthy eating, as well as making a delicious and enjoyable meal for four.
For adults accompanying children attending the workshop, there is free entry to the garden whilst the workshop is under way, as well as refreshments.
Fizzing fireworks night
Soak up a warm and lively atmosphere at Miserden's fireworks night on Saturday 4 November 2023. Gather around a large bonfire at this family-friendly evening. With a range of high quality food from local vendors and beers from Stroud Brewery, this year’s celebration is shaping up to be one of its best yet.
Gates open at 4.30pm and the firework display starts at 7pm. All profits help to raise money for the Miserden Primary School’s water infrastructure repair project.
Awesome autumn walks
In the autumn, the grounds burst with yellow and orange leaves from shedding trees which makes for a very special sight — especially with the reflections on the crystal clear lake surface, one of the most popular spots around the park.
It’s a perfect opportunity to escape day-to-day life for a few hours or to catch up with old friends. Enjoy a gentle wind-down in the Glasshouse Cafe afterwards, which is open on weekends only after the end of September 2023, for a smooth hot chocolate to warm up during colder weather.
Retail therapy in the Potting Shed
Browse for gifts, cards, trinkets and all kinds of lovely goodies. The beautiful gift shop, next door to the Glasshouse Cafe, is brimming with handmade crafts as well as stylish homeware and interior decorations.
A trip here is sure to inspire if you ever feel stuck on just what to buy for a loved one — a quick peek and your shopping basket will be full!
