‘Hidden’ UK gardens ranked among the world’s best by experts

Two of Wales’ gardens have been recognised among the world’s finest. InsureandGo compiled a list of the top 15 botanical gardens globally, considering factors such as the number of recorded plant species, the density of botanical gardens, Instagram posts of flowers and plants, and Google search demand for gardens in each country.

These elements were combined to give each country a “botanical bliss” score.

Over 100 botanical garden reviews worldwide were analysed, with rankings based on the highest percentage of four and five-star reviews. North Wales boasted two sites in the top ten.

The top spot was claimed by Arizona’s Boyce Thompson Arboretum, home to over 3,200 different plant species and lush gardens amidst the arid Sonoran Desert landscape.

However, hot on its heels with 97.5% of reviews above four stars was Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens near Menai Bridge on Anglesey. The gardens feature a series of grottos, follies, dark tunnels and four waterfalls, reports Wales Online.

There’s a walled garden, a “jungle”, and an avenue of yew pyramids. For panoramic views, there are belvederes overlooking wild woodlands and the rising peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) in the distance.

Bodnant Gardens in the Conwy Valley also made it to the list, securing the sixth spot. The garden, established in 1874 by scientist, businessman and politician Henry Pochin, is a treasure trove of plants collected by renowned global explorers like Ernest Wilson, George Forrest and Harold Comber.

Now under the stewardship of the National Trust, the garden is open to visitors throughout the year. It boasts towering trees and a stunning variety of flowers.