Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, Bowood House & Gardens should be at the top of every budding photographer’s list of places to visit – or even for those of you who want to take some stunning pictures for your own social media. With over 2,000 acres of sprawling lawns, a gorgeous Capability Brown landscape, and beautiful Georgian architecture to behold, here are just some of the many spots you should think about capturing during your visit to Bowood House & Gardens…
One of the most photographed natural features at Bowood House & Gardens is the Cascade Waterfall.
Located just a short walk from Bowood House, and towards the breath-taking Bowood Lake, the waterfall is idyllic for those looking to capture the beauty of nature in motion.
The sound of the water cascading over the rocks creates a peaceful and tranquil setting — the spring sun casting a magical, golden glow over the water is a beautiful sight.
The rippling water and stunning lighting, make for the most beautiful photos from almost every angle.
Another natural beauty that can’t be missed at Bowood is the Woodland Garden. Filled with stunning plants, including a glorious display of rhododendrons, it’s a must-do during your visit. Open from 14th April for 6 weeks, the gardens are an everchanging floral delight, with stunning vistas opening up from behind every turn.
The Woodland Garden features a collection of hybrid plants that were previously thought to be extinct and creates a floral paradise that is considered one of the most exciting gardens of its type in the UK.
With an abundance of wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, there are even plenty of opportunities for nature photographers amongst us to capture some amazing shots.
The lake at Bowood Hotel & Gardens is a magnificent feature that offers photographers the perfect opportunity to capture natural beauty combined with impressive Georgian architecture. The East Terrace provides a gorgeous view of the lake, amongst the beautiful flowers in bloom; the perfect backdrop for a beautiful selfie!
The lake is home to a variety of water birds, including swans and ducks, making it a perfect spot for bird photography and a chance to explore along the edges of the water.
On the far side of the lake, sits the Doric Temple, giving you the opportunity to take in the stunning views across the lake and up towards Bowood House in the distance.
The Italian-inspired garden outside Bowood House is a stunning and picturesque location that provides the perfect backdrop for photography. With its carefully crafted symmetry, immaculate lawns, and elegant water features, this garden transports visitors to the romantic landscapes of Tuscany.
The garden is designed to offer a sense of serenity and harmony, with neatly trimmed hedges, and ornate flower beds placed throughout. The vibrant colours of the plants and flowers create a striking contrast against the neutral colours of the surrounding architecture, making it nearly impossible to take a bad photo.
The Private Walled Gardens is a hidden gem and a true marvel of horticulture, only accessible on selected tour dates. These gardens are surrounded by centuries-old walls that provide a sense of seclusion and privacy, making them the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat. The gardens are split into several smaller sections, each with its unique theme and design. Visitors stroll through the rose garden, bask in the floral oasis, and relax in the herbaceous borders.
The exotic plants and shrubs are expertly arranged, creating a kaleidoscope of colours and textures that are truly mesmerizing. With its peaceful atmosphere, delightful scents, and stunning vistas, the Private Walled Gardens at Bowood House & Gardens offer photographers an idyllic location to capture the beauty and tranquillity of nature.
The Arboretum is a fantastic spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of trees and foliage.
Featuring over 700 species of trees, the changing colours of the leaves throughout the seasons provide a stunning background for a family photo. This is particularly the case when the cedars stand tall and the sunlight creates a warm red glow — a sight not to be missed for budding photographers!
As well as plenty of exquisite walking routes, Bowood has a variety of outlets where you can stop for refreshments after your walk. These include The Treehouse Café, situated by admissions, The Stables Pantry, located within Bowood House, and the ice cream kiosk, which you’ll find in the Adventure Playground.
If you’ve been inspired to pick up your camera, come and visit our grounds and gardens this spring. We’d love to see you; book your tickets here!
Alternatively, why not read our previous blog to discover our spring walks?
