The historic UK town with the largest Japanese cherry tree orchard in the world
ALNWICK’s world-famous garden receives over 350,000 visitors every year.
This is in part thanks to its 328-strong cherry orchard, which come spring transforms into a sea of white.
Rivalling the spring blossoms of Mount Fuji and Tokyo, Japan, The Alnwick Garden is the ideal location to capture the tree’s brief flowers.
Whether it be for romantic walks or pictures for Instagram, the orchard is one of the UK’s most popular cherry blossom locations.
The orchard’s type of Taihaku cherry tree named Great White is known for its snow-coloured flowers that can grow up to 6cm in width.
Visit in autumn, and the tree’s leaves turn a deep copper.
The Taihuka cherry trees have an unusual history, having become extinct in Japan.
This was until Captain Collingwood Ingram recognised the cherry tree from a Sussex garden (which had previously been imported from Japan).
He reintroduced the tree to Japan and to this day every Taihuka cherry tree in the world is related to the one from that Sussex garden.
The Japanese tradition of flower viewing or ‘Hanami’ as it is called in Japan is typically associated with admiring cherry blossoms.
The best way to do this is to gather friends or family and (if it’s allowed) have a picnic under the cream-coloured cherry branches.
Part of the cherry tree’s appeal is that they only blossom for up to two weeks, making their presence short and sweet.
The best time to capture their beauty is during the end of April and the beginning of May – although this time differs depending on the weather.
A good way to save you from arriving too early or late is The Alnwick Garden’s blossom watch which is a live webcam hooked up to view the cherry trees.
It is worth keeping an eye on the garden’s social media as they will make an official announcement when the flowers reach full bloom.
Best places in the UK to see cherry blossoms
- Kew Gardens, Richmond
- Greenway, Devon
- Sizergh Castle, Cumbria
- The Stray, Yorkshire
- Dyffryn Gardens, Wales
- Blickling Estate, Norfolk
- Hinton Ampner, Hampshire
- The Alnwick Garden, Northumbria
- The Stray, Harrogate
- Bute Park, Cardiff
The Alnwick Garden was constructed in the 1750s and improved in the 1850s.
However, following the Second World War, the picturesque garden fell into disrepair.
It wasn’t until 1996, that the Duchess of Northumberland Jane Percy saw potential in the abandoned grounds and initiated its redevelopment.
In 2001, the 12-acre plot was opened to the public but the work didn’t stop there.
Countless additions have been made since then – including the record-breaking cherry orchard.
These days the site welcomes over 350,000 visitors a year, according to The Alnwick Garden Trust.
During Easter entrance to The Alnwick Garden starts from £16.50 and is free for up to 4 children (per adult).
From April 15, tickets cost £18.50 for adults and are still free for up to 4 children (per adult).
There are plenty of other things to appreciate about the garden.
The infamous Poison Garden contains some of the world’s most toxic plants.
Visit at your own risk as guests have occasionally been known to faint while walking around the plot.
Understandably, you cannot smell, touch or taste any of the plants.
The Alnwick Garden’s Grand Cascade is a magnificent fountain that stretches across the park and it is also worth visiting the otherworldly bamboo labyrinth.
What to do in Alwnick
Alnwick is not just known for its spring blossoms.
The small Northumberland market town has picturesque cobbled streets and historical landmarks.
Alnwick Castle – a monolithic 11th-century building – is famous for being the set of Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
Originally built to protect the border, the castle now offers tours and events.
Children can even attend Broomstick training sessions where Harry took his first flying lesson in the film Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
The cherry tree orchard is also not the only world record-breaker in Alnwick.
Beside The Alwnick Garden is the world’s largest wooden tree house.
Held up by 16 trees this unique build has been the host of numerous weddings and events.
One particular highlight is the magical Tree House Restaurant, which offers cosy £20 two-course meals with stellar views.