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Picture of the gardens showing a pathway with trees and flowers on the sides

About the Garden

The 30-acre garden is the product of nearly 200 years of careful cultivation and includes a park, lake, fountains, sculptures and more. Much of the flora and fauna have been kept under careful control over time to in order to preserve them as they used to be back in the 19th century.

The person that laid the foundation of these gardens was none other than George Stephenson, who had a great passion for gardening and exotic plants.
Most of the garden and park trails and pathways offer access to people with disabilities and places to rest while the park also allows for picnics.

Image of the lake with a wooden pond in the foreground and trees around the lake in the background

The lake

The lake is one of the biggest points of reference in the Stephenson's Gardens and is located in the middle of the park area, being the home of many unique in this region species of flora and fauna. It had undergone modifications over time and has been extended to its current size in the 1980s in order to provide more space to growing flora and fauna as they were competing for space.

The pond allows for a greater view of the lake and the park surroundings, making it a great place to relax.
It is highly recommended to pay attention while walking on the pond, especially with children, as its surface can get slippery in rainy weather and in the winter.


Described by Rolt as a generous man, Stephenson financially supported the wives and families of several who had died in his employment, due to accident or misadventure, some within his family, and some not. He was also a keen gardener throughout his life; during his last years , he built hothouses in the estate gardens, growing exotic fruits and vegetables in a 'not too friendly' rivalry with Joseph Paxton, head gardener at Chatsworth House, twice beating the master of the craft.