A wintery walk around beautiful gardens followed by a good homemade afternoon tea…the perfect way to spend any day I think.

Away from hustle and bustle, Barnsdale Gardens is located in Rutland. It has Britain’s largest collection of individually designed gardens! It truly is an inspiring place to visit whether you have a passion for gardening, photography or just nature.

Though you may not have all the bloom and blossoming this time of year, the gardens are still lovely. I particularly liked the Japanese one. Expect to find seasonal vegetables growing, creative garden designs, different plants and plenty of birds.

The Gardens hold monthly events and courses, some of which are free with garden entry. You can buy an annual membership too for you and the family.

There is a Chelsea Gold Medal award winning nursery and a small shop on site too.

Walking around the gardens whilst listening to nature is therapeutic on its. Having a tea room alongside and tucking into homemade food makes it even more enjoyable.

Helenium Tea Room

Within the gardens is Helenium Tea Room. The tea room is licensed and overlooks the gardens. Expect to be served locally sourced food & drinks in the converted shed. Staff provide a great service and add to the warm ambience.

They have a selection of items you can have on the day as well as Afternoon Tea (* afternoon tea needs to be pre-booked*)

The afternoon tea they served was traditional. Nothing fancy. Just tasty homemade scones, sandwiches and cakes. We got a selection of sandwiches on soft bread, two pieces of pork pie, two little mason jars with Eton mess, a few Oreo thins, 2 huge traditional raisin scones and a slice of cake each of our choice. It is a very generous afternoon tea. We could not manage the cakes and took them home with us.

At the moment Barnsdale Gardens & Helenium Tea Rooms have a winter special. Buy afternoon tea and get free entry to the gardens. That’s £32.95 for two which is a bargain!