Ride a lakeside miniature train, cross the water on the Miss Elizabeth and use the talking pipes to get through the maze on this vast and picturesque estate.
The lake, nature trails and floral mazes of Trentham Gardens adorn its namesake estate in the peaceful village of Trentham. The site offers activities for the whole family, from its Fairy Trail and Hide and Speak Maze, to the Adventure Playground and Miniature Train. Enjoy the fun activities and scenic views in these landscape gardens.
Watching over the estate is the ghost of Trentham Hall, a now-derelict mansion wrapped by a colonnade. Gaze up at the clock tower, elegant balcony and parish church that survived the 20th-century demolition of the rest of the edifice. Capture photos of the fountain and a tree-lined path that leads away from the house. A dense forest of oak trees fills the backdrop.
Stroll along the pathways of the restored 19th-century Italian Gardens. Manicured hedges and floral labyrinths decorate the garden, in which about 80,000 perennials are planted. As you approach the lake at the southern end of the Italian Gardens, the flowers take on subtler and lighter hues.
Follow the Lakeside Walk for about 2 miles (3 kilometers), stopping for a break at the Lakeside Café. Admire the wood carvings of cute animals. Rent a canoe or kayak from the boat clubs here or take a ride on the 22-person catamaran, Miss Elizabeth. Kids can search for the stainless-steel fairies dotted around the lake area. Bring children to the Adventure Playground for its assault course, sand pits and Altitude Tower.
In winter, wander along the frost-laden paths and tread on the crunchy grass of frozen meadows. Appreciate the absolute serenity, as you survey evergreen plants of sparkling white-gray hues.
The gardens are open daily from morning until late afternoon, with longer hours in summer. Entry tickets are discounted entrance for kids, students and seniors.
Trentham Gardens runs along the River Trent in the Trentham suburb of Stoke-on-Trent. Drive south from the city center for 3 miles (5 kilometers) to arrive in 10 minutes. Visit nearby attractions, including Trentham Park Golf Course, Trentham Monkey Forest and Trentham Golf Club.
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