Half-price family days out: The card unlocking over 360 of the UK's most beautiful gardens

The summer holidays are well and truly underway, and if you're running out of ideas for what to do with the kids, we've got just the ticket. For the price of a magazine, you can get your hands on a card that unlocks 2-for-1 entry to over 360 of the UK and Ireland's most beautiful gardens. 

Introducing: the 2-for-1 Gardens card. One card for unforgettable family days out all summer and beyond.

We know it's often easier to parent outside the home, especially during the school holidays. And with the glorious British weather we've been having, spending time outdoors has never been more appealing. Now is the perfect moment to pencil a few garden trips into your summer schedule - and make a few savings too.

From the team behind BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, here's everything you need to know about the 2-for-1 Gardens card.

What is the 2-for-1 Gardens card? 

The 2-for-1 Gardens card is a reusable discount card that offers access to over 360 beautiful gardens across the UK And Ireland until March 2027.

Many of the gardens already offer free or reduced rates for children under 16. With this nifty card, two adults can visit for the price of one. Heading out solo with little ones? Don’t worry, 168 of the gardens also offer a single-visitor discount too.

With some of the entry fees hitting £20+, BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine estimates you can save up to £38.50 on a single visit thanks to the reusable card - making it a genuinely budget-friendly family day out.

How do I get a 2-for-1 Gardens card?

This year, the 2-for-1 Gardens card has gone digital, making it easier than ever to access. All you need to do is download the free 2-for-1 Gardens app and purchase a digital card directly through it for £9.99. This will give you 2-for-1 tickets to visit over 360 gardens throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales with unlimited visits until 24 March 2027.

Get your card at: gardenersworld.com/2-for-1-gardens

What are the best gardens to visit?

With gardens across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales on the Gardens card, you’re sure to find one not too far from home. Many also have adventure trails, kids’ play areas, castles, immersive tours and restaurants, so you can turn a garden visit into a full day out for the whole family. Our garden highlights include:

Hever Castle, Kent - England

Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle & Gardens offers family fun for all ages with activities that bring the beauty and history of this spot to life. At its heart is Tudor Towers - a nine metre tall wooden play castle with its own moat, drawbridge, slides, underground tunnel and three turrets. There’s also a natural play area, obstacle course, and water maze. If the weather turns, head indoors to see the miniature model houses and the Military Museum where soldiers' stories come to life. We recommend lining up your visit with one of the many family-friendly events throughout the summer, from dragon meet-and-greets to falconry displays and immersive experiences where kids can become Knights-in-Training and learn under the guidance of King Arthur’s Court.

Alnwick Garden, Alnwick - England

Built around a dramatic central water feature, The Alnwick Garden in the heart of Northumberland is another great spot for families this season. Kids can cool off in the Serpent Garden with its playful water sculptures or discover the deadliest plants in the world in a guided tour of The Poison Garden - a hit with older children! Time your visit with one of the seasonal events, from music sessions to face painting. To finish off your day out, nestle into the treetops at The Treehouse Restaurant for a magical dinner setting serving contemporary British food with a dedicated kid’s menu.

Brodie Castle & Estate, Moray - Scotland

Brodie Castle is a real standout for families, exploring the history of the Brodie family who once called the estate home for over 400 years. In The Playful Garden, children can explore the woodland adventure playground and even play in a mini version of the historic castle. Throughout the summer, you’ll also find the Sports Zone for family races; Nature Zone where kids can try their hand at gardening; Imagination Zone complete with dress-up props; Beach Zone for building sandcastles, and Chill-Out Zone for a moment of R&R in mini tipis. Lunch is available in the Victorian kitchen and café, with sweet treats and ice cream served at The Playful Garden café. 

Penrhyn Castle & Garden, Bangor - Wales

Penrhyn Castle & Garden in Bangor offers something for the whole family. With over 60 acres of gardens and woodland surrounding the castle, plus views of Snowdonia’s summits, this National Trust spot is a true show-stopper. Best of all, it’s perfectly catered to families during the school holidays. This summer, visitors can enjoy five play zones focused on making the most out of the great outdoors. Every Tuesday throughout the summer holidays, kids can unleash their inner artists with Crafty Tuesday sessions led by volunteers. There are also plenty of nature trails for burning off some energy while taking in the stunning scenery.

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