Designed by Piet Oudolf in 2004 as part of the gardens’ major early-2000s redevelopment, these striking planting schemes invite visitors to immerse themselves in swathes of tall grasses and wander through a maze of vibrant, evolving flowers. Still thriving today, they stand as a lasting testament to Piet Oudolf’s visionary design and enduring planting.
The Rivers of Grass create a feeling of intimacy as visitors move through broad sweeps of grasses and punctuating herbaceous perennials. Plant forms flow freely, changing character with the seasons and responding naturally to light, wind and weather.
Selected for their resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, the planting demonstrates how naturalistic design can be both beautiful and sustainable. With picnic benches positioned nearby, this is also a peaceful place to pause, sit and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
The Floral Labyrinth is a web of gently winding paths that lead through tall perennial planting across 30 individual beds. Bold colour, structure and scent unfold as you move through the space, encouraging exploration and offering new perspectives with every turn.
Spring brings early bulbs, followed by peak perennial displays from mid-summer. Seed heads are retained into winter, extending visual interest while supporting wildlife and creating striking scenes for photographers.
Set in historic setting, the planting is framed by notable trees, including ancient yews, a tulip tree and a Cappadocian maple with the largest girth in the British Isles. The deep shadows of the Cedar of Lebanon provide a dramatic contrast to the lighter, flowing drifts of herbaceous planting below.