STODY LODGE GARDENS

Stody Lodge Gardens: the perfect destination for tour groups in May 2021

Even non-garden lovers are stunned by the dazzling array of colours at Stody Lodge Gardens near Holt in north Norfolk. Open all Sundays in May from 1pm – 5pm and mid-week by appointment, these 14-acre rhododendron and azalea gardens are renowned for their magnificent blooms, warm welcome and delicious homemade teas.

Stody Lodge Gardens is well known for its intense colour scheme, with wonderful pinks, whites, yellows, oranges and deep purples planted closely together. This palette is softened by beautiful magnolias, camellias, ornamental and specimen trees, late daffodils and bluebells. As well as expansive lawns and wide-open spaces, the gardens also offer visitors quieter areas and woodland pathways for visitors to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty around them.

Stody Lodge also boasts a little-known national treasure: its exceptional four-acre Azalea Water Gardens which is widely believed to be the largest single planting of vividly coloured azalea mollis (over 2,000 plants) in the UK. This garden was created in the 1920s and is accessible via a 5-minute walk from the main gardens around Stody Lodge. It has a beautiful lake which reflects the colours of the azaleas around it, all overseen by a 150-year-old Cedar of Lebanon.

London architect Walter Sarel was commissioned to design Stody Lodge and its gardens in 1932 by the 1st Viscount Rothermere, the British newspaper proprietor and founder of the Daily Mail and Daily Mirror. The gardens’ original design have been protected as much as possible whilst developing new areas, deepening the herbaceous borders and adding interest around the Lodge.

Visitor information

In May 2021, Stody Lodge Gardens will open to the public on Sunday 2nd, Sunday 9th, Sunday 16th, Sunday 23rd, Monday 17th – Friday 21st, Sunday 23rd, Sunday 30th and Bank Holiday Monday 31st 2021.

Midweek groups and coach tours welcome by appointment. Please call 01263 863994 or email enquiries@stodyestate.co.uk

Entrance is £8, children under 16 free. Groups can pre-book a cream tea on midweek days only (not Sundays) for £14 per person which includes entrance to the garden.

Coach drivers to the gardens are always treated to a free cup of tea and cake to fuel them for their return journey.

There is also a plant stall by the local award-winning Edgefield Nurseries on Sundays and good wheelchair access to most areas of the garden. Dogs on leads are welcome.

For all opening times and visitor information, please visit: www.stodylodgegardens.co.uk