Belvoir Castle

About the garden

Owned by

Emma Rutland and David Manners

Designed By
Capability Brown

Behold, Belvoir Castle, nestled upon a solitary hill, graced by the artistic hand of 'Capability' Brown, embracing the grandeur of Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire in its scenic panorama. Over 3,000 acres of nature's design, wherein Brown allotted 26 acres of delightful gardens, awaiting the touch of Duchesses to make their mark on the beautiful 17,000-acre estate. Elizabeth, the 5th Duchess, dutifully adhered to Brown's vision, while Violet, the 8th Duchess, engaged the talents of Edwardian designer Harold Peto. Remarkably, Frances, the 10th Duchess, proved herself a plantswoman of extraordinary prowess. And in our era, Emma, the 11th Duchess, spearheaded a decade-long restoration endeavour, clearing over 13 acres of woodlands and replenishing them with rare arboreal treasures: the magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas, Enkianthus and Styrax, to grace the estate. 

Etched into the castle's steep incline, a formal Rose Garden beckons, unveiling enchanting views of rhododendrons adorning the statue garden and parterre. The Japanese woodland stands adorned with camellias, Prunus and acers, while August blesses it with the resplendent hues of beautiful blue hydrangeas. The horseshoe-shaped Spring Gardens, nestled securely against the western winds, play host to a plethora of plants, including Tetrapanax, Melianthus and Euphorbia mellifera. A root and moss house, crowned with a thatched roof, gazes upon the regal, terraced herbaceous borders, once graced by the presence of Queen Victoria herself. 

In 2013, the seven-acre Hermits Garden emerged from its slumber, adorned with rare, ericaceous-loving trees and shrubs. This theme found its continuation within the verdant embrace of the five-acre Carlisle Wood, ensconced among the sequoias and majestic candelabra pines. Belvoir's topography bestows a unique charm upon these gardens, revealing picturesque vistas at every turn, adorned with lakes, statues and champion trees. Abundant undisturbed enclaves invite wildlife to frolic and flourish. 

We encourage all visitors to wear study footwear and leave ample time to savour the beautiful gardens.

Please note: this garden is partially accessible.