Affordable days out – great value visits & children go free

July 2026

Providing access to often exclusive private gardens with the added benefit of friendly and helpful advice from knowledgeable garden owners, visits to National Garden Scheme gardens have always represented good value for money. The average admission price in 2026 to a National Garden Scheme garden is £6.37 (up just 24p on 2025) for an adult and, in most cases, children under 16 go free.

“From the first opening in 1927, when admission was a shilling a head, the National Garden Scheme has always endeavoured to provide affordable access to gardens for all,” says Chief Executive, Dr Richard Claxton. “Compared to many other gardens open to visitors in the UK – some of which can set you back a lot more – our gardens remain very affordable.”

Many gardens also have plants and produce for sale at prices below the usual nursery price, and homemade cakes and teas also offer excellent value for money.

“Exploring gardens with children can be hugely rewarding,” adds Richard Claxton. “There is so much for our senses to enjoy; the scents, sounds and colours of nature, and time outside gives everyone a much needed break from the screens that dominate our modern lives, allowing nature to help steady our minds and ease anxiety.”

The best value for money are National Garden Scheme group gardens where an average ticket – which could provide you with access to between three and ten gardens – is just £7.45 (up just 15p on 2025). In a time when we are all tightening our purse strings it’s good to know that you can still enjoy a day out in a beautiful garden without breaking the bank. And, knowing that any admission you do pay goes to some of the UK’s best-loved nursing and health charities really is the icing on the cake.

You can view all our group gardens by clicking here or find a garden near you with our Find a Garden search tool here