We took a drive down to Stoke to visit the Trentham Estate. Predominantly a gardens, the Estate also has a small shopping village and a choice of eateries. After the drive down we opted for brunch at the Garden Tearoom. Now this isn’t Northern Quarter brunch vibes, but it’s got all the egg-based options and the coffee’s good.
Parking is free but entry into the Estate isn’t, it’s £12 entry, but with the fairly recent and on-going support and restoration of the Gardens you can see why.
We had an overcast crisp spring day and really enjoyed the walk around the gardens and lake, from here on out as the weather dials up this place will be fantastic to stroll around.
The Italian Garden planting is designed within the historic framework of Sir Charles Barry’s original Italianate Garden of the 19th Century. There are show gardens, a floral labyrinth and rivers of grass to enjoy on your stroll, stunning views all round and plenty of Instagram friendly moments.
There’s an area at the top of the gardens where the Old Hall has fallen into disrepair, the remains of Trentham Hall including the sculpture gallery and clock tower. Demolished almost a century ago, this former seat of the Duke of Sutherland was once one of England’s grandest country houses.
The lake circular is great and there’s a café at the bottom end to rest and refuel as a half way point. It’s worth noting that it stocks some great Staffordshire Oat Cakes.
The gardens contain a series of sculptures and most notably the fairy / nymph wire works. Their slightly “over sexy” style did make me think of some kind of fantasy gamer’s idea of heaven, but I’ll leave you to make your own critique and it’s fun to spot them all, including the 2 in the lake – be sure to look out for them ones!
Depending on what time you arrive and leave you may be able to squeeze in time to visit Wedgwood just 10 mins away. We swung by for late afternoon tea and cake in the café and loved it.
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