The Easter Bank Holiday is the perfect time for a day trip, and if you’re looking for last-minute inspiration, this ‘magical’ park makes an excellent choice for the whole family
A stunning UK park has attracted attention after tourists compared it to something out of a fairy tale. The Easter Bank Holiday is upon us, and families up and down the country will be looking for unique ways to spend their extra days off.
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle over the coming days, this quiet Surrey village might be exactly what you’re after. Located just 50 minutes from London, Painshill Park in Cobham, Surrey, boasts a gorgeous crystal grotto, picturesque ruins and views over the Serpentine Lake. According to its website, Painshill Park is “a fantastic day out for all the family that’s full of heritage, beauty, adventure and outdoor fun.”
“Created in the 18th century by Charles Hamilton as a living painting, Painshill invites you to walk around a work of art and discover dramatic follies, calming waters and stunning views,” a description reads.
“Painshill is regarded as one of the foremost and finest examples of the English Landscape Movement. A style of landscape design that has been described, by architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner, as ‘Britain’s greatest contribution to the visual arts’.”
Visitors seem to agree. Taking to Instagram, travel bloggers Weesh and Nada shared a glimpse of their own visit to Painshill, writing over a video: “Just 50 minutes from London [is] a fairy tale park with a magical crystal grotto.”
They captioned the post: “If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Painshill Park is one of the most beautiful parks near London, featuring a fairy tale crystal grotto, romantic ruins, and stunning lakeside views.”
Of the crystal grotto, the Painshill website states: “On the lake in the centre of Painshill is a magical Crystal Grotto. It is a feature of the 18th century landscape and has been painstakingly restored.”
Visitors who have worked up an appetite exploring the grotto and grounds can visit Mr Hamilton’s Tea Room in the Visitor Centre. Here, indulge in pastries, cakes and snacks, or grab a quick bite – light lunches such as sandwiches and soups are on offer.
The park is currently open every day from 10am until 6pm, with last entry at 4pm. In the winter and spring, Painshill shuts at 4pm and 5pm respectively. Last entry is at 3pm in winter and 4pm in spring.
The crystal grotto is closed on Mondays for maintenance (excluding Bank Holidays) and shuts half an hour before general closing from Tuesday to Sunday. Mr Hamilton’s Tea Room is open Monday to Sunday, between the hours of 10am and 3.30pm from November to January and from 10am to 4.30pm throughout the rest of the year.
Painshill is a ticketed garden and visitors are advised to book online to save money and avoid disappointment. Adult tickets are £12.50 (plus a £1 booking fee) via the Painshill website or £15 on the door.
Concession tickets are £11.50 (or £12.50 on the door), children between the ages of five and 16 can enter for £7.50, and kids under five go free.