Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens
Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens
Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens
5
About
Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens have undergone a spectacular transformation and are being restored to their former glory. First laid out in 1804 in the 'picturesque' style of Humphry Repton, the famous Victorian landscape designer, the gardens had become derelict by 1996. There are 10 acres of gardens, included a 2 acre Walled Garden, fantastic valley gardens packed with unusual and interesting plants, flowering shrubs and trees; river and waterfalls. Home made cakes are served in the traditional Tea Room. Visitor Centre describing the history and restoration of the gardens. In 2017 open 12noon-5pm on Weds/Thurs/Suns in April; Tues/Weds/Thurs/Suns May-Sep; Weds/Thurs/Suns in October. Pre-booked private group tours by appointment.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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5.0
642 reviews
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531
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94
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7
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7
Terrible
3
Trek337264
Kingston-upon-Hull, UK8 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Most of their focal visitors are of the mature 50/60 age group and above. Sadly disabled and those bad on their legs… maybe this isn’t a great choice for a visit.
If you’re able bodied. Fit & healthy. Great place to visit. Sadly the disabled are not catered for and carer giver is charged only 50P less than normal rate. We only get a lawn to view. Lovely as that was. 10 minutes was enough. I wanted to explore more. We tried but steps & very steep inclines made it impossible.
We were approached by a manager - we did not approach him. He asked if everything was ok. We said we were disappointed. He said my carer was welcome to leave me and wander the rest of the gardens… which may have taken an hour or two. Just thought that was stupid thing to say. What did he expect me to do. We have carers for a reason. In a medical emergency. What would we do. Then rudely told me I should have read the leaflet. Had no leaflet. Got one. It mentions nothing of the kind. I’ve checked the website since. That briefly mentions it. But we followed a tourist sign post.
So sadly … this is my review. If he had not made such rude comments. I would have quietly left and not made a review. Oh hum. We were made to feel very unwelcome as a disabled person & carer.
If you’re able bodied. Fit & healthy. Great place to visit. Sadly the disabled are not catered for and carer giver is charged only 50P less than normal rate. We only get a lawn to view. Lovely as that was. 10 minutes was enough. I wanted to explore more. We tried but steps & very steep inclines made it impossible.
We were approached by a manager - we did not approach him. He asked if everything was ok. We said we were disappointed. He said my carer was welcome to leave me and wander the rest of the gardens… which may have taken an hour or two. Just thought that was stupid thing to say. What did he expect me to do. We have carers for a reason. In a medical emergency. What would we do. Then rudely told me I should have read the leaflet. Had no leaflet. Got one. It mentions nothing of the kind. I’ve checked the website since. That briefly mentions it. But we followed a tourist sign post.
So sadly … this is my review. If he had not made such rude comments. I would have quietly left and not made a review. Oh hum. We were made to feel very unwelcome as a disabled person & carer.
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and allowing us the opportunity to address you formally.
The Valley Gardens are not suitable for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility which is why we offer a discounted entry rate (less than half our rate for concessions) and make it as clear as we can that the gardens are not best suited for visitors with limited mobility: this is highlighted in three sections of our website where a detailed access statement is also downloadable; our leaflet highlights that areas have steep paths; an A-board by the entrance states that “Access for wheelchairs and mobility scooters is limited to the Walled Garden area”; and our Visitor Centre staff hand out a free map on entry and highlight appropriate routes.
Our staff often check in on visitors in the garden to ensure they are enjoying themselves and the member of staff you refer to was trying to be helpful and was not made aware that the gentleman with you was your carer; we welcome many visitors in wheelchairs and scooters who visit with friends and family and sometimes explore the gardens independently of one another.
We care deeply for our visitors, but also for our staff and the staff member who wished to be as helpful as possible is deeply offended by your comments having been on the receiving end of your rudeness. I also would like to note that once you had expressed your displeasure, you were given a refund.
Written 16 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stay29542028887
2 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
The entire route to the garden and view inside the garden is amazing. One should definitely plan to visit this place to have a unique experience.
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. The experience is certainly intended to begin once visitors turn up the driveway and we're delighted that you enjoyed exploring the gardens and grounds. The autumn colour is really starting to take hold now, adding its rich brown, orange and red hues to the palette.
Written 16 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bev B
Blackburn, UK672 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Even though we visited on a rainy day which got worse and worse we had a thoroughly enjoyable time.
We would have taken much more time than the hour and a half to linger and thoroughly appreciate these stunning gardens which really reminded me of a smaller version of Bodnant Gardens.
It was so bad we were given a laminated map of the grounds, what a marvellous idea.
Wish I could have bought some plants, but just wasn't practical for us being so wet and being on a mini break in Angelsey.
Gardeners World 2 for 1 are only accepted on certain days, so check GW website 1st.
We would have taken much more time than the hour and a half to linger and thoroughly appreciate these stunning gardens which really reminded me of a smaller version of Bodnant Gardens.
It was so bad we were given a laminated map of the grounds, what a marvellous idea.
Wish I could have bought some plants, but just wasn't practical for us being so wet and being on a mini break in Angelsey.
Gardeners World 2 for 1 are only accepted on certain days, so check GW website 1st.
Written 30 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We have had some very wet days recently and are glad that you enjoyed the gardens despite the weather. We do what we can to ensure our visitors can enjoy and explore the gardens no matter the weather and we are glad that you found the laminated map useful.
Written 2 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
holtimes
Chesterfield, UK129 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
This is a stunning garden, really beautiful, very well tended. It is obvious that the place is loved.
The planting is lovely and there are some unusual shrubs, trees and ferns.
The areas by the stream/river are so tranquil.
The cafe is clean and airy and the food tasty.
We would highly recommend a visit.
The planting is lovely and there are some unusual shrubs, trees and ferns.
The areas by the stream/river are so tranquil.
The cafe is clean and airy and the food tasty.
We would highly recommend a visit.
Written 22 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. The restoration of the gardens has absolutely been a labour of love and the staff care deeply about the gardens and visitors' enjoyment of them, so we are delighted that you enjoyed your time in the gardens and tea room.
Written 25 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elaine W
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Couples
Had looked online before visit to plan times etc. Very easy to locate. Plenty of parking and entry hall was full of information boards. On the day we visited ..a Wednesday.. visitors can use Gardeners World 2 for 1 card.
There was delicious honey for sale too. After our walk around the different parts of the garden we had a delicious lunch bought from the cafe but eaten outside.
There was delicious honey for sale too. After our walk around the different parts of the garden we had a delicious lunch bought from the cafe but eaten outside.
Written 12 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you found the gardens a pleasure to visit. The delicious honey is produced locally using honey collected from hives at Plas Cadnant and I can't get enough of it! The Gardeners' World 2-for-1 card is a great way to find and explore new gardens and it has been a delight to welcome so many GW readers.
Written 14 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Margi S
Leicestershire, UK7 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Fabulous hidden garden with impressive approach and interesting history now being sympathetically restored by passionate owner. Very sunny day so lovely to stroll through the woodland walk to the river. Only disappointment was the fact that hot food is only available til 2pm so from 1.30 large queues built up and slow service. Cake and hot drinks served 12 til 5pm.
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We are delighted that you enjoyed exploring the gardens and are sorry that you were disappointed that light lunches are only served until 2.30pm. I have spoken with the catering team who confirm that despite additional staff, it was a busy afternoon. They did however highlight that just before 2.30pm a member of staff checked whether each customer in the queue wished to purchase any light lunches and none did. This is their standard practice when there are queues at 2.30pm as they do not wish for any customers to miss out due to queuing. The recent fine weather has been wonderful and we are glad that you were able to visit during the sunshine.
Written 11 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
richard b
leeds80 contributions
Aug 2023
After visiting Bodnant the day before we expected Plas Cadnant to be the poor relation.
But not a bit of it. It is a delight. The walled garden is relatively small but nevertheless it is full of interesting herbaceous plants. The walks through the woods down to the river are fabulous - gorgeous hydrangeas everywhere.
We were lucky to visit on a day when head gardener Chris took visitors on a two hour tour of the whole garden area including the woodland area not normally open to the public. We loved every minute of the tour.
The cafe offered simple but delicious food and all the staff, including Anthony himself, were brilliant.
But not a bit of it. It is a delight. The walled garden is relatively small but nevertheless it is full of interesting herbaceous plants. The walks through the woods down to the river are fabulous - gorgeous hydrangeas everywhere.
We were lucky to visit on a day when head gardener Chris took visitors on a two hour tour of the whole garden area including the woodland area not normally open to the public. We loved every minute of the tour.
The cafe offered simple but delicious food and all the staff, including Anthony himself, were brilliant.
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. Anthony and the gardening team have planted the gardens to ensure there is plenty of interest throughout the season and August is most certainly the best time to see over a hundred varieties of hydrangea planted throughout the gardens. I will pass on your kind comments to Anthony, Chris and the team who will be very pleased that you enjoyed your visit.
Written 31 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jon W
Stevenage, UK3 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
A beautiful setting with amazing flora and fauna! Perfect to wander with a surprise at each turn. A fascinating history - great that it has been beautifully rediscovered and nurtured into something so very special. A stunning experience! Great cafe too with tea from a silver tea pot and generous slices of delicious cake. Well worth the visit!
Written 17 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind review. The surprise at each turn was a key feature of the Picturesque movement that inspired the gardens' design; offering a vista or point of interest where you don't necessarily expect one. We are thrilled that you enjoyed exploring the gardens and our catering team will be delighted that you enjoyed the homemade cakes and tea.
Written 17 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pierre B
5 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
A charming garden that resembles (but is smaller than) the nearby Bodnant gardens. Highly recommended
Written 3 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We are delighted that you enjoyed visiting us. We have recently been shortlisted for "The Nation's Favourite Garden" and we enjoy sharing the gardens with our visitors.
Written 10 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lucy N
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Family
It was a beautiful garden we loved it. We spent £39 to get in. After we had looked around it began to rain so we went into the lovely tea room and spent £16 for coffee. We had our own picnic and when I asked if we could eat our sandwiches in the shaded area in the courtyard as it was pouring down ( not in the cafe ) we were told NO! No one else was there, we would have cleaned up after ourselves and I had my elderly parents and young children with us. We were very unimpressed with the response and we feel this is an oversight for the gardens. We did not feel very welcomed.
Written 30 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We are pleased that you found the gardens beautiful, but are sorry that you were disappointed with not being able to eat you picnic within our tea room area. The courtyard is part of our tea room sitting area and our policy (as is the case for most catering establishments) is that only food purchased from the tea room may be consumed on-site. Visitors are very welcome to enjoy their own picnics in our parkland.
Written 3 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Can I buy the tickets on site or prior to visiting?
Graham J
Nuneaton, UK1,902 contributions
We bought them when we arrived. Don't know if you can pre-book.
gerald l
Chester, UK7 contributions
Hi, can I get around the garden in a power wheelchair ( it is fine on dry/ish grass etc and also gentle sloops)? Also, what are the charges? We are thinking of visiting in a week or two.Any advice would be very welcome. Many thanks Gerald
21cyndyc
Holyhead, UK263 contributions
The smaller part of the garden is wheelchair friendly but the best parts are down steep rugged paths. Super cafe there.
Adrian V
Meopham, UK6 contributions
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
piscatorial
manchester8 contributions
Part of it is, but a lot of pushing. Cafe is fine for access.
Alison L
Cheshire, UK10 contributions
Is it dog friendly?
Gill W
Bangor, UK58 contributions
The Plas Cadnant website states the following:
"We are sorry that other than assistance dogs, dogs are not allowed in the gardens. You are welcome to exercise your dog in our parkland (on a lead as we have sheep). We have shady parking and water is provided. Thank you for your understanding."
best wishes
Gill W
Danroyd
Shaw, UK49 contributions
Please coyld you give me th cost per adult and per child. Thanks
Mike S
Chester, UK8 contributions
Hi, the price for adults is £7.50
April - October
Adults: £7.50
Concessions: £7 (60+)
Children (6-16 years): £2
Children 5 and under: Free
Disabled visitors: £3.50
Family: £18
Hope that helps
Lorrainexoxo
Liverpool3 contributions
Are you allowed to bring a dog on the lead?
busterSolihull
Birmingham, UK1,386 contributions
Sorry No They Don’t Accept Dogs In The Gardens, Only Assistance Dogs.
You can exercise them in the parkland, also on a lead as there are sheep
Regards
Bustersolihull
Lorrainexoxo
Liverpool3 contributions
Are you allowed to bring a dog on the lead?
Chris R
Anglesey, UK130 contributions
No dogs allowed on this site.
suebriangriffiths
Bromsgrove, UK2 contributions
I would like to know if dogs are allowed in Hidden gardens
PlasCadnantGO
Menai Bridge, UK
Hello,
Visitors are welcome to exercise dogs on a lead in our extensive parkland - they need to be kept on a lead as we have sheep and lambs on the land. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the gardens and Tea Room. Our historic gardens have feature topiary which is vulnerable to dog urine, so for this reason we regret we do not allow dogs within the Hidden Gardens.
Parking is available in the shade of trees (to the right of the main parking area as you approach) and we provide water by the entrance.
happybuddy2016
Leeds, UK3 contributions
Are dogs allowed?
victor w
Anglesey, UK28 contributions
I Don,t think so.
Would a couple of doddery eighty year olds be able to walk around? They're not very good with steep slopes.
Thanks in advance.
Mark
PlasCadnantGO
Menai Bridge, UK
Hi Mark,
The Gardens are situated in a valley, so much of the land is sloping to a degree, but the Walled Garden is accessible to all and the Upper Valley has a few slightly steeper slopes that can be avoided. The Lower Valley is the steepest area of the Gardens and I would advise avoiding if slopes are difficult, but we do have a few viewpoints overlooking the Lower Valley that can be reached by gently to moderate slopes.
We do offer a half price rate (£3.50) for visitors with limited mobility. We do advise visitors to explore the Gardens at their own pace and we have benches placed at regular intervals throughout the Gardens.
I hope the above information is helpful and please don't hesitate to contact us should you require any further assistance.
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Claim your listingPLAS CADNANT HIDDEN GARDENS: Tickets, Tours & Tips (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens
- Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens is open:
- Sun - Sun 12:00 - 16:00
- Wed - Wed 12:00 - 16:00
- Thu - Thu 12:00 - 17:00
- Hotels near Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens:
- (0.03 mi) Plas Cadnant Holiday Cottages
- (0.43 mi) Maen Hir Guest House
- (0.80 mi) Y Bwthyn Llwyd Menai Bridge
- (1.17 mi) Ashbrook, Bangor Boutique Bed and Breakfast
- (0.32 mi) 2 bedroom accommodation in Llandegfan, near Menai Bridge
- Restaurants near Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens:
- (0.78 mi) Sage Kitchen
- (0.75 mi) Freckled Angel
- (0.70 mi) Theodore's
- (0.75 mi) Sosban and The Old Butchers Restaurant
- (0.72 mi) Spice Island Menai Bridge