How and when to enjoy the enchanting spectacle of Alnwick Garden’s Taihaku cherry blossom trees.
Cherry blossom marks the arrival of spring. And, in Japan, these delicate flowers – known as ‘sakura’ – are a symbol of renewal and the fleeting nature of life.
Here in the North East, you don’t have to venture far to see these fragrant blooms for yourself.
Alnwick Garden has an orchard of 329 Taihaku cherry blossom trees – the world’s largest collection outside of Japan.
Since 2008, this cherry orchard has been welcoming visitors all over the region and beyond, with #BlossomWatch now an annual fixture in people’s diaries.
These ice-white flowers are short-lived but ever so pretty, and this yearly bloom in the heart of Northumberland is something you must experience at least once!
When do the trees bloom?
The trees bloom together around the end of April and start of May, lasting up to two weeks.
However, last year, they bloomed a little earlier than usual, in mid-April, so it’s best to keep an eye on Alnwick Garden’s Facebook page for an official announcement.
What to expect
A meandering path leads you through the blossom trees, with benches and two-seater wooden swings dotted around the orchard. The swings are particularly popular, so expect to wait for your turn on one of these.
The orchard’s sprawling layout means that, even if it’s busy, you’ll still be able to steal a private moment and capture beautiful photographs.
Try not to feel rushed, as the magic of this place lies in taking your time and connecting with your surroundings.
Stroll beneath the snowy white canopies and admire the branches dancing in the wind, with the ground dappled in layers of petals. It’s such a peaceful sight.
When I visited, I walked through the orchard twice so that I could soak up every moment of this spring-time spectacle. My first foray amidst the trees lasted 45 minutes, meanwhile my second took around half that time. There’s no time limit, so enjoy it at your own pace.
Planning your visit during cherry blossom season
Once you know the trees are in full bloom, my advice is to check the weather forecast and book online via Alnwick Garden’s website as soon as you can.
Choosing a time slot first thing, as soon as Alnwick Garden opens, will increase your chances of exploring the orchard with fewer people around.
On the day, you’ll have to arrive at your selected time slot. It’s then up to you whether you want to visit the orchard straight away or enjoy the other gardens first before making your way to the blossom trees.
Your admission into Alnwick Garden includes access to the cherry orchard at no extra cost.
Making the most of your time at Alnwick Garden
The cherry blossom orchard is just one of the many beautiful blooms, plants and water features you can see during your visit.
Escape into Alnwick’s Garden’s tranquil Ornamental Garden, Rose Garden and Bamboo Labyrinth, or if you’re brave enough, join a guided tour of its infamous Poison Garden.
The Grand Cascade – a tumbling mass of water with fountains reaching 6m tall – is the centrepiece to this popular visitor attraction.
There’s also has a lovely cafe, restaurant and on-site gift shop.
If you love nature and getting outdoors, there’s plenty to see here alongside the cherry blossom trees, meaning you can really make the most of your visit this spring.
For more information about Alnwick Garden’s cherry blossom orchard, visit: www.alnwickgarden.com.
