It’s officially that time of year – we’re just three weeks away from the official start of spring (though it’ll be a while longer than that before it feels like it here in the Granite State) and we’re all daydreaming of sunshine, flowers, and birdsong. As soon as the blossoms start to open, you’ll want to head straight to these gorgeous gardens for some flower therapy – and in the meantime, these pictures may just hold you over.
1. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Site, Cornish
This stunning property was once the home of famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and for fans of sculpture it's worth a pilgrimage. But we think it's the gardens that really stand out here – they're absolutely unbelievable, full of gorgeous flowers and studded with historic sculptures. You'll feel like you're at the home of a member of the aristocracy here. Learn more
This historic botanical garden, which was once part of a seacoast estate, is right next to the ocean. You'll be awed by the stunning rose garden, tropical conservatory, and Japanese garden. Visit at 10 Willow Avenue, North Hampton, NH 03862.
Also known as the Hays Estate, the Fells was the property of a prominent 19th century politician. Today, the estate is open for exploration, and the gardens are the highlight. You'll truly feel like you're in the Secret Garden as you step through a door in the stone wall to scenes of the most gorgeous and carefully curated flowers. Learn more here.
Kirkwood Gardens, part of the Squam Lake Natural Sciences Center, is located on the grounds of what was once the historic Holderness Inn and is now part of the science center. The garden isn't huge, at about an acre, but it's beautiful and teeming with butterflies – plus, you can get lunch at the Kirkwood Hotel at the old hotel building. Visit at 23 Science Center Road, Holderness, NH 03245.
Pickity Place inspired the illustrations for Little Red Riding Hood, and this cozy little restaurant grows many of the ingredients used in its lovely lunches. You might not realize, though, that you can also wander through their beautiful flower gardens – they're incredibly peaceful and you'll feel like you've stepped right into a fairy tale. Learn more 6. Tarbin Gardens, West Franklin
An English farming family purchased this beautiful property in 1973 and spent years transforming it into a series of perfect gardens. It's now open to the public, and you can even enjoy a classic English tea in the garden. Learn more here.
Looking for something to do to hold you over until the flowers bloom? How about checking out some New Hampshire breweries?
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