Top Seven Spots to Experience Cherry Blossoms in the UK This Spring

The cherry blossom season in the UK generally commences in late March and extends into late April, contingent upon the variety of trees and prevailing weather conditions. This year, the branches are particularly resplendent, adorned with vibrant pink clusters. While city trees primarily serve ornamental purposes, native cherry trees in the UK typically yield fruit, attracting bees and other pollinators as they buzz from bloom to bloom during this vibrant season.

In Japan, where enjoying this seasonal beauty holds significant cultural value, terms like ‘sakura’ for blossom and ‘hanami’ for the act of appreciating it with loved ones emphasize the enjoyment of the flowers from the first burst of bloom to their inevitable fall. Here’s a curated list of the finest locations across the UK to see cherry blossoms while they are in their prime.

1. Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

This historic estate, located just six miles west of Lincoln, has recently witnessed the blooming of its first cherry trees. A diverse range of varieties promises a delightful display that could last well into Easter. Established in 1595, Doddington Hall features six holiday cottages, cafes, a restaurant, and the grand Elizabethan manor house, which is reopening this weekend. There’s even a children’s workshop on April 17 focused on the Japanese art of hapa zome, where participants can create impressions of flowers on fabric.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London

Although many parks in London showcase cherry blossoms, Kew Gardens stands out for its dedication to these beautiful trees. The Cherry Walk begins at the back of the Palm House, featuring the beloved Yoshino cherry with its delicate pink blossoms. Daily guided tours highlight the cherry blossoms at 12:30 PM until the end of April, included with the admission price. Nearby, the Coach & Horses pub offers accommodations and meals just steps away from the gardens’ entrance.

3. Keele University, Staffordshire

For those seeking variety, Keele University is home to an outstanding arboretum featuring over 240 types of cherry trees, ensuring a prolonged blossom season. Originally planted in the 1940s, this arboretum is now recognized as a National Plant Collection. Visitors can explore maps of the different species and their respective flowering periods. The Courtyard Keele hotel is conveniently located next to the university’s Science & Innovation Park.

4. Barfield Farm, Offham, Kent

Founded by the Malcolm family in the 1930s, Barfield Farm specializes in cultivating edible cherries, producing an impressive 12 tonnes each year. During the bloom, visitors can see a dozen varieties, including commercial and traditional English cherries. Although access to the farm is limited, nearby camping pods provide a unique opportunity to experience the cherry blossoms up close. The Kings Arms in Offham village serves excellent meals, and the National Trust property Ightham Mote is a short drive away, featuring its own cherry trees.

5. The Stray, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

In 1953, an avenue of cherry trees was planted in Harrogate to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s coronation, and The Stray is now one of the premier locations for cherry blossom spotting in the UK. This expansive park features numerous varieties, offering a display that typically lasts about 14 days and often coincides with the blooming of daffodils and crocuses at ground level. Free to enter, The Stray boasts 200 acres of picturesque parkland.

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

In Edinburgh, the Royal Botanic Gardens feature the iconic Yoshino cherry tree, expected to bloom within weeks. Additionally, a dedicated avenue of cherries with abundant deep pink flowers attracts crowds, particularly in the Meadows on Edinburgh’s south side. This area offers stunning views of Arthur’s Seat and is a favorite spot for picnics when the weather is favorable.

7. National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire

Established for the Chelsea Flower Show in 2001, the Japanese garden at the National Botanic Garden of Wales has flourished over the years. An additional 100 cherry trees have been planted nearby, including the impressive Tai Haku variety, known for its large blooms. Fferm Glanyrynys, just a short drive from the garden, offers lovely farm accommodations for visitors.

Have we overlooked any great spots? Feel free to share your recommendations in the comments!