Cholmondeley Castle Gardens
The life's work of Lavinia, Marchioness of Cholmondeley.
Malpas, Cheshire, SY14 8AH
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Facilities for children
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Free parking
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Garden only
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Pet friendly
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Picnic area
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
The Cholmondeley Family have resided in this part of Cheshire since the Norman times. The gardens were originally laid out in the early 19th Century using architectural elements from the formal gardens of the Old Hall.
When Lavinia, Marchioness of Cholmondeley came to live at Cholmondeley in 1947 together with her husband the 6th Marquess she set about creating ‘a garden of great romance’ introducing many specimen trees and shrubs, including rare magnolias, camellias and rhododendrons. Her legacy is continued today with new developments in the Rose, Temple Water Garden and Folly Gardens together with the creation of a 100m long double herbaceous border, a fitting tribute to Lady Cholmondeley’s life and work in the gardens.
Tower Hill offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a woodland ramble amongst interesting shrubs and trees under planted with many wild flowers and bulbs, whilst the Deer Park Mere and nature trail offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings with magnificent views of Cholmondeley Castle.
The Cholmondeley Family Chapel of St. Nicholas lies to the north-east of the Castle. The oldest surviving part of the Chapel dates from the 15th Century and the Chapel is well worth a visit to enjoy is tranquil atmosphere, and the fine 17th Century carved oak screen and rare examples of early Flemish stained glass. The Chapel is still used for services and family occasions.
Discover the romantic Temple and Folly Water Gardens, 100m double herbaceous bordered Lavinia Walk, Glade, Arboretum, and the ornamental woodland upon Tower Hill. New for 2023 is the Cholmondeley Rose Garden with the creation of two very different Rose rooms between old and new with over 800 new plantings.
Visits are offered to the gardens only.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens offers a variety of attractions and events throughout the year. Below is a detailed summary of their opening times, prices, and special events:
Opening Times
The Gardens reopen on Sunday, 1st March and are open Sundays only throughout March. From Good Friday, 3rd April, the Gardens are open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays until the end of October. The opening hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:00 PM.
In November, the Gardens are open Sundays only, and the last day of opening for the year is Sunday, 28th November.
Admission Prices
- Advance Tickets: Adults £9, Children (5-15 years) £4.50, under 5s free.
- On-the-day Tickets: Adults £10, Children (5-15 years) £5, under 5s free.
- Summer Holidays: Children go free from 19th July to 31st August (excluding events).
- Membership: Seasonal Membership is £50 per adult, with children accompanying members free (excludes certain events).
Special Offers
- Historic Houses Members: Free entry with a valid card.
- RHS Members: Free entry in May and September (excludes event days).
- Blue Light Discount: Buy one adult ticket, get one free with valid ID.
Accessibility
Accessible toilets and parking are available. Some areas may not be suitable for wheelchairs or mobility aids. A signed wheelchair route is provided through the Temple Garden. Visitors are advised to wear sensible footwear and exercise caution due to uneven ground and water hazards.
Dog Policy
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads at all times.
Events
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens hosts a variety of events, including seasonal festivals, plant fairs, and themed days. Notable events include:
- Mothering Sunday: 15th March - Free posy for women and card crafting for children.
- Cherry Blossom Celebration: 29th March - Explore the Cherry Blossom trail.
- The Great Cholmondeley Easter Adventure: 5th April - Family-friendly Easter activities.
- Four Seasons Rose Garden Festival: 7th June.
- Halloween Festival: 25th October.
For group visits, guided tours and lunch options are available upon request.
For further details, contact Cholmondeley Castle Gardens at 01829 720 203 or [email protected].
Free for Historic Houses members. No need to book, simply turn up with your membership card.
Adults £8.50 in advance, £9 on the gate on the day
Children £4 in advance, £5 on the gate on the day.
Under 5’s free.
Event prices vary, please refer to website
Head Gardener Tours available upon request
For group visits please contact the Estate Office 01829 720203 or [email protected]
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
Getting here
Malpas, Cheshire, SY14 8AH
Located off the A49 Whitchurch Tarporley Road, conveniently near Chester, Nantwich and Whitchurch.
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