Spring is a magical time in Surrey, with blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, and longer days inviting you to explore the picturesque landscapes. If you’re planning a getaway to embrace the beauty of spring, look no further than Staylets Serviced Apartments in Egham. Nestled in the heart of Surrey, Egham offers the perfect base to experience the charm of spring in this idyllic county. In this blog we take a look at some of our favourite gardens and open spaces to enjoy all that Spring has to offer. We have picked seven in total – enough for one a day and a week long stay.
Hampton Court Palace Gardens – 11 miles from StayLets Egham
The world-famous gardens of Hampton Court Palace include 60 acres of spectacular formal gardens and 750 acres of parkland, all set alongside the River Thames. The gardens are home to the world’s oldest puzzle maze (Planted in 1768 it’s now over 250 years old), a record-breaking grape vine, three National Plant Collections and a huge variety of wildlife, including the descendants of Henry VIII’s deer herd. The gardens come to life in spring with over one million flowering bulbs in the wilder gardens and a riot of colour in the formal gardens.
The Sculpture Park, Churt – 31 miles from StayLets Egham
The Sculpture Park is something of a hidden gem. Lose yourself for hours along a winding 2-3 mile trail through 10 acres of enchanting woodland and water gardens. More than 800 large outdoor sculptures all of which are for sale, are displayed throughout these stunning gardens. The park is teeming with wildlife and plants which are ever-changing throughout the seasons and there are plenty of places to sit and take in the views. The Sculpture Park does not have parking, but it has an arrangement with the pub opposite (The Bell & Dragon) to park.
The Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park – 3 miles from StayLets Egham
Originally named the Bog Garden, The Savill Garden is a 35-acre haven of gardens, woodland and seasonal displays. The garden was commissioned by George V and created by Eric Savill in 1932. In exceptional years, spring can begin as early as late February with the appearance of magnolias, or it might be as late as April before the drifts of crocus followed by thousands of dwarf daffodils are at their best in the Alpine Meadow. The Garden is awash with its National Collection of Magnolias and award-winning rhododendrons. The stunningly beautiful flowering Japanese cherry trees are also not to be missed.
On first leaving the Savill building, look out for a mature Magnolia loebneri ‘Merrill’, smothered with ice-white flowers.
RHS Garden Wisley – 14 miles from StayLets Egham
RHS Garden Wisley is the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society and widely regarded as one of the great gardens of the world. Across the garden are beautiful cherry trees are smothered with clouds of pink and white blossom. Stealing the show in mid-spring is the breathtaking avenue of 140 Yoshino cherries in the Welcome Landscape. As spring takes hold, drifts of golden daffodils carpet many areas of the garden. To see some of the best displays be sure to visit the Pinetum, where cheerful cyclamineus group daffodils bring dazzling colour under the magnificent pines, and Oakwood, where there are heirloom cultivars to discover, such as charming ‘Rip van Winkle’ with its quirky twisted petals.
Wisley is well renowned for its rhododendron collection, bringing a touch of the exotic to Battleston Hill and Oakwood. From small mound-forming shrubs to medium sized trees in every colour imaginable, seek out the magnificent Rhododendron ‘Halopeanum’ in Oakwood – one of our oldest specimens, with Champion Tree status.
Polesden Lacey – 25 miles from StayLets Egham
The genius of the garden is its setting with glorious views of Ranmore Common and rolling 1,600 acre parkland. A landscape virtually unchanged since medieval times. Daffodils fill the lawns in spring, whilst the summer highlights are the abundant Rose garden and stunning herbaceous borders. Deckchairs on the South Lawn make it easy to take in the far-reaching views; perfect for picnics or to grab a scoop of local dairy ice cream. This is a garden for all seasons. Autumn offers golden colour across the landscape and from December the winter garden brings colour and fragrance. Polesden Lacey also has ancient woodlands and wildlife habitats that are home to rare birds and butterflies. Highlights include the walled rose garden, herbaceous border, and the Graham Stuart Thomas-inspired winter garden.
As well as the gardens, there is the house itself. The house was the Edwardian country retreat of socialite, Margaret Greville and it houses her extensive collection of paintings, ceramics and fine French furniture. The future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother also spent part of their honeymoon at Polesden Lacey in 1923.
Ramster Gardens – 34 miles from StayLets Egham
Ramster Garden are renowned for its rare trees and a kaleidoscope of blossoming shrubs. This historic woodland garden, which spans 25 acres, is famous for its extensive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas that burst into a breathtaking spectacle of colour with the arrival of spring. Wander along the winding paths, whilst enjoying views of lakes and hillsides filled with colour and interest. Discover sculptures and natural carvings, including the Red Dragon, a bench carved from a fallen Californian Redwood. You can complete your visit with morning coffee, lunch, or afternoon tea at Ramster Tea House, which has indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Runnymede and Ankerwycke – 2.5 miles from StayLets Egham
Seen by many as the birthplace of modern democracy, this open landscape beside the Thames was witness to King John’s historic sealing of the Magna Carta over 800 years ago, on 15 June 1215. As well as a monument to the legacy of the Magna Carta, you’ll find further memorials to John F. Kennedy and the Commonwealth Air Forces, and a series of art installations, including unique works by Hew Locke and Mark Wallinger. This peaceful stretch of countryside is home to rolling hills, open meadows and a variety of wildlife. On the other side of the Thames, you’ll find Ankerwycke, a hidden gem with secrets to discover among the woods and fields. Look out for the ruins of a Benedictine priory and the oldest tree in the National Trust’s care, a 2,500-year-old yew where Henry VIII is rumoured to have courted Anne Boleyn.
After a day of exploration, return to your cozy serviced apartment at Staylets and unwind in comfort. Whether you choose to cook a delicious meal in your own kitchen or relax with a movie in the spacious living area, our apartments provide the perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing. Our apartments are designed to provide you with a home away from home experience, offering spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and modern amenities to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. We’re committed to ensuring your spring break in Surrey is unforgettable. With our comfortable accommodation, convenient location, and personalised service, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Book your stay with us today and experience the beauty of spring in Surrey firsthand.