Gardens in Bushy Park

The gardens of Bushy Park

In Bushy Park, you’re never far from water. From a woodland stream or a cascade, to the landmark Diana Fountain.

These are gardens to slow down in. Wander the pathways, reconnect with nature, and lose track of time.

The woodlands and water gardens of Bushy Park

Gardens play a huge role in our emotional wellbeing. Walking in them, tending to them, watching them change through the seasons. The peaceful surroundings of the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens and Upper Lodge Water Gardens in Bushy Park are perfect places to relax and unwind.

The Waterhouse Woodland Gardens are a shady oasis of glades, criss-crossed by streams and little bridges. It’s said that the Park Superintendent, Joseph Fisher created the winding pathways by trailing a stick through the woods. The gardens were designed in the late 1940s around the remains of the gardens of an 18th century manor house and a 19th century woodland walk and plantation, and are good examples of 20th century garden design. 

Don’t miss the azaleas and camellias that flower between October and May, or the Silver Birch Glade which turns a glorious golden yellow in autumn.

The Upper Lodge Water Gardens

If you need a peaceful setting where you can escape the everyday for an hour or two, head for the elegant 18th century Upper Lodge Water Gardens. This beautiful water garden combines Baroque ornamental pools, basins and cascades, in a historic setting. The Upper Lodge Water Gardens all but disappeared in the 20th century. As a charity, we've worked to extensively restored them. 

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome everywhere in Bushy Park except the Woodland Gardens. You’ll need to keep them on a lead across the park when it’s deer birthing time from May-July – we put notices round the park to give you plenty of warning.