Winterbourne House and Garden

Winterbourne House and Garden is a botanical garden spanning about 7 acres in Edgbaston with Mediterranean plants, woodland areas, flower borders, and glasshouses containing tropical and carnivorous species. The University of Birmingham manages the site and displays different gardening styles throughout.

The garden was created in 1903 for wealthy couple John and Margaret Nettlefold, drawing inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement and designer Gertrude Jekyll's approach. During the 1930s it expanded with added features including a Japanese bridge.

The garden reflects how the wealthy arranged their homes and grounds according to artistic ideas of the early 1900s. Walking through the different sections shows how they designed spaces for both display and everyday enjoyment.

The garden is open daily and is best explored on foot, as the different sections are well connected by pathways. Some areas have steps and uneven ground, particularly in the wooded section, so wear comfortable shoes.

A distinctive feature is the tunnel-shaped nut walk, a covered passage that visitors pass through while exploring the grounds. Combined with the curved stone steps, this passage creates an unusual journey that guides visitors through different garden areas in an unexpected way.

Location: Edgbaston

Inception: 1903

Operator: University of Birmingham

Part of: University of Birmingham

Website: https://winterbourne.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.45370,-1.92484

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44