Introduction: Why Visit Rose Gardens with the 2-for-1 Gardens Card?
Few things capture the beauty of summer like a rose garden in full bloom. From climbing ramblers to perfumed hybrid teas, roses have an unrivaled charm that makes them the centerpiece of many historic gardens. The 2-for-1 Gardens scheme is the perfect way to experience these horticultural treasures without stretching your budget. With just one entry card, you and a companion can explore some of the most romantic rose gardens in the UK at half the cost.
As we enter peak rose season, the timing couldn’t be better. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a lover of history, or simply searching for a tranquil day out, these rose gardens offer unforgettable experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore five stunning rose gardens—each included in the 2-for-1 scheme—that promise not only breathtaking displays but also unique stories, architecture, and landscapes.
1. Powis Castle – Roses Against Historic Ramparts
Location: Welshpool, Wales
Highlights:
- Italianate terraces with rose-covered balustrades
- Historic Edwardian Arts and Crafts bothy
- Famous rose-colored ramparts and sculptural landscapes
Perched high on a hill, Powis Castle is more than just a historic landmark—it’s a showcase of romantic garden design. The terraces, inspired by Italianate styles, spill downwards with roses winding gracefully around classical balustrades. The scent of roses mingles with the visual drama of billowing yews and statues that recall a bygone era of art and culture.
Accessibility & Visitor Information
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: £7.50 (or £5.50 off-peak)
- Refreshments: Hot food and light snacks available
👉 Tip: Visit in June or July to see the roses at their most fragrant, and don’t forget your 2-for-1 Gardens card to maximize your savings.
2. Coughton Court – Tudor Knots and Rose Labyrinths
Location: Warwickshire, England
Highlights:
- Tudor knot garden inspired by Elizabethan design
- Rose Labyrinth with hidden arches and surprises
- Historic ties to the Gunpowder Plot and Throckmorton family
At Coughton Court, history and horticulture intertwine. The Tudor knot garden recalls England’s Renaissance elegance, with roses adding fragrance and color to its geometric design. For something more whimsical, the Rose Labyrinth invites visitors to wander beneath rambling arches, each turn offering a new burst of floral beauty. It’s a garden that rewards curiosity and appeals to both casual visitors and seasoned plantsmen.
Accessibility & Visitor Information
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: £7.50
- Refreshments: Hot food and light snacks
👉 Tip: Pair your rose garden visit with a tour of the estate to fully appreciate Coughton’s role in English history.
3. Carolside Garden – Scotland’s Rose Haven
Location: Scottish Borders, Scotland
Highlights:
- Home to rare gallica and Damask roses
- Informal planting style full of texture and color
- Historic rose varieties dating back to Empress Josephine
Carolside Garden is a paradise for rose lovers. Unlike the strict symmetry of formal gardens, Carolside embraces naturalistic planting. Roses tumble among campanulas, lupins, and lime-green Alchemilla mollis, creating a painterly effect. Historic rose varieties are the stars here, from gallicas cultivated by Empress Josephine to Damask roses brought back from the Crusades.
Accessibility & Visitor Information
- Disabled access: Full access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: Not available
- Refreshments: Not available
👉 Tip: If you love fragrance, plan your visit during peak bloom in mid-June when the Damask roses are at their aromatic best.
4. The Alnwick Garden – Roses Among Legends
Location: Northumberland, England
Highlights:
- Over 3,000 English shrub roses and climbers
- The famous Poison Garden with deadly plants
- The world’s largest wooden treehouse café
Best known for its Poison Garden, The Alnwick Garden is equally renowned for its expansive rose collection. Over 3,000 roses create an unforgettable display, blending traditional shrubs with climbing varieties. Delphiniums, reaching over two meters tall, add drama to the Ornamental Garden. After exploring the roses, visitors can dine in the iconic wooden treehouse—an experience unlike any other.
Accessibility & Visitor Information
- Disabled access: Full access
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Single visitor discount: Not available
- Refreshments: Hot food and light refreshments
👉 Tip: Time your visit to enjoy both the rose garden and the delphinium displays in early summer.
5. Borde Hill Garden – Romance with Aphrodite
Location: West Sussex, England
Highlights:
- Central statue of Aphrodite in the rose garden
- Lavender borders adding fragrance and color
- Intimate garden rooms including the Italian Garden and Round Dell
Borde Hill Garden brings romance to life with its rose garden centered around a statue of Aphrodite. Roses carefully chosen for their fragrance mingle with rows of lavender, filling the air with a heady scent. Beyond the roses, garden “rooms” offer varied experiences—from the warmth of the Italian Garden to the shaded pathways of the Round Dell.
Accessibility & Visitor Information
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Permitted on the lead
- Single visitor discount: £9
- Refreshments: Light refreshments
👉 Tip: Visit during the golden hours of evening for magical photographs of roses glowing in the soft light.
Why Roses Make the Perfect Garden Visit
Roses are more than just flowers—they’re cultural icons. Throughout history, they’ve symbolized love, beauty, and resilience. From Empress Josephine’s rose collections at Malmaison to Shakespeare’s verses, roses have captured imaginations for centuries. Visiting rose gardens with the 2-for-1 Gardens card connects you not only to nature but also to this rich heritage.
Benefits of Visiting Rose Gardens
- Affordable entry with the 2-for-1 scheme
- Opportunity to see rare and historic rose varieties
- A perfect day out for families, couples, or solo garden lovers
- Seasonal experiences that change from June to September
Tips for Planning Your 2-for-1 Rose Garden Visit
- Check Bloom Times – Most roses peak in June, but repeat-flowering varieties extend the season.
- Bring the Right Gear – Comfortable shoes and a sunhat are essential for exploring large estates.
- Look for Refreshments – Many gardens feature charming tea rooms or cafés—perfect for a break.
- Photography Ready – Early morning or evening light captures roses at their best.
- Support the Gardens – Purchases at gift shops or cafés help preserve these historic landscapes.
Conclusion: Romance, Roses, and Real Savings
The 2-for-1 Gardens Roses scheme is more than a discount—it’s your ticket to experiencing the romance of Britain’s finest gardens. From the historic terraces of Powis Castle to the fragrant labyrinths of Coughton Court, the wild charm of Carolside, the expansive rose beds of The Alnwick Garden, and the romantic intimacy of Borde Hill, each garden offers something unique.
So, grab your 2-for-1 Gardens card, plan your itinerary, and immerse yourself in the colors, scents, and stories of these unforgettable rose gardens. The only regret you’ll have is not visiting sooner.