Walmer's gardens have continually evolved under successive Lords Warden. The Queen Mother's Garden takes their evolution further by providing a contemporary feature to sit alongside the older surrounding designs. Enjoy the subtle features and exquisite design of this jewel-in-the-crown of Walmer's historic gardens.
The Garden
The Queen Mother's Garden is designed along classical lines reflecting Penelope Hobhouse' interest in Islamic gardens. The result is a tranquil combination of still water, rich planting and cool shade.
An elegant arched pavilion is reflected in the still water of the central rectangular pool. It is surrounded by deep borders with sculptural plants such as tall, purple headed cardoons, deep blue Agapanthus, purple Verbena, scented roses and mauve alliums. In the late spring large terracotta pots are full of brightly coloured tulip varieties, such as 'Rem's Favourite', and the 'Paul's Scarlet' Hawthorn trees around the outside are full of rich red blossom.
The Designer
A prolific and highly regarded garden designer and author, Penelope Hobhouse is also a renowned garden historian. Over her successful career she has designed gardens across the world, and won significant accolades for bringing historic gardens into the public imagination. Her work has seen her receive the Victoria Medal of Honour, the highest award presented by the Royal Horticultural Society.
Setting a Trend
The opening of this garden in July 1997 was the first new garden created by English Heritage. It sparked a design programme of other contemporary gardens at English Heritage properties such as Lincoln Medieval Bishop's Palace and The Governor's Garden at Portland Castle in 2000 and 2002 respectively. More recently, 2009 saw the creation of the Princess Beatrice garden at Carisbrooke Castle, designed by former Gardener's World presenter and award winning garden designer Chris Beardshaw. The latest English Heritage garden to be unveiled was at Mount Grace Priory, and was also of his design, interpreting the arts and crafts garden that existed at the site historically.
Find an Historic GardenRediscover the Gardens
In 2019, we installed new displays and interpretation as part of the project to rediscover Walmer's lost pleasure grounds. As well as improving accessibility, the new tactile exhibits share the story of the gardens as never before, and explain the work of Walmer's gardeners. You can also learn about the Walmer's wildlife, and discover the biodiversity of the surrounding area.
Continually improving and evolving, there is always something new to see and enjoy at Walmer. Visit the castle and experience these award winning gardens for yourself.
Plan your Visit
Explore Walmer's Gardens
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The Broadwalk
See one of the glories of Walmer; the magnificent Broadwalk.
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The Kitchen Garden
Explore the fruit trees, vegetable beds and glasshouses of Walmer's Kitchen Garden.
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Seasonal Garden Highlights
From spring sowing to autumn pumpkins, discover the best of Walmer's growing season.
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Re-Discovering Walmer's Pleasure Grounds
Find out more about the £2.3m project to revive and reunite parts of Walmer's historic gardens.