Fodor's Expert Review Plantation Garden

Abandoned and overgrown for more than 40 years after World War II, these beautiful Victorian gardens have been painstakingly returned to their former glory by a team of volunteers. Originally planted in 1856, the 2-acre site, dotted with fanciful Gothic follies, includes original features like an Italianate terrace and a huge rockery. It's a particularly tranquil spot when the spring and summer flowers are in full bloom—bring a picnic if the weather's good, or have a bite in the café. The entrance is somewhat hard to find; look for the little gate next to the Beeches Hotel. There's no car park, but you can use the lot at the nearby Black Horse Pub.