Highlights
- The Punch Bowl, a natural amphitheatre ringed with rhododendrons and azaleas
- National Collections of magnolias, rhododendrons and Glenn Dale azaleas
- Himalayan and Chinese birches
- Walks through undulating wooded valleys running down to Virginia Water
About the Valley Gardens
The Valley Gardens were started in the 1940s by Eric Savill, Deputy Ranger of Windsor Great Park and creator of the neighbouring Savill Garden, working with head gardener Hope Findlay. Gardeners from around the country donated shrubs, and the planting has continued to develop since.
The gardens spread over 250 acres of rolling, wooded valleys on the northern side of Virginia Water. Unlike the Savill Garden, they are open and free to walk into, so you can simply walk in from the surrounding park. With the Savill Garden, they are Grade I listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens and are managed by the Crown Estate.
What to see
- The Punch Bowl: a natural bowl in the hillside lined with rhododendrons and azaleas, at its most colourful in spring.
- National Collections: magnolias, rhododendrons and Glenn Dale azaleas.
- Trees: Himalayan and Chinese birches among the mixed woodland.
- Valley walks: paths dipping through the folds of the land towards the lake.
Planning your visit
The Valley Gardens have no public car park of their own. The nearest pay car parks are at the Savill Garden (TW20 0UJ) and Virginia Water (GU25 4QF), each about a mile's walk away; payment is by card only, and Blue Badge holders park free. The Wick Road car park is for members only. Food, drink and toilets are available in the gardens. Dogs are welcome on a lead, but cycling is not permitted. AccessAble publishes an access guide to the gardens. Parts of the estate sometimes close for operational reasons, so check the Windsor Great Park visitor updates before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Valley Gardens free to visit?
Yes. Windsor Great Park, including the Valley Gardens, is free to enter. You pay only for parking, from £3.20 for up to an hour to £16 for four hours or more, by card.
Where do I park for the Valley Gardens?
There is no public car park at the Valley Gardens. The Savill Garden car park (TW20 0UJ) and Virginia Water car park (GU25 4QF) are each about a mile's walk away.
Can I take my dog to the Valley Gardens?
Yes, dogs can be walked in the Valley Gardens but must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife. Cycling is not allowed.