May is a wonderful time to see stunning displays of Rhododendrons and Azaleas throughout the British Isles. Many plants were brought to this country by Victorian plant hunters who travelled to places like China and Nepal. Many of the original plants survive today and can be seen in our selection of places for you to visit.

Benmore Botanic Garden near Dunoon, Scotland 
Situated on the West Coast of Scotland this is one of the most scenic gardens in Britain with stunning displays of Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and Magnolias in May. You will also see brilliant displays of Meconopsis, the Himalayan blue poppies in their natural setting. The Garden has probably the finest avenue of Giant Redwoods in the country. Dog Friendly on leads, Café. Partial Disabled Access. 

Bowood Rhododendron Garden, Chippenham, Wiltshire
This is one of the best Rhododendron Gardens in the South of England. As the visitor walks along the rides, each step opens up a new vista of breathtaking beauty, from the minute details of the individual flowers to the grand sweep of colour formed by hundreds of rhododendrons, Azaleas and Camellias which are amongst a carpet of bluebells.
Dog Friendly on leads, Light refreshments. Partial Disabled Access 

Glendurgan Garden near Falmouth, Cornwall (National Trust)
This is truly a great garden set in a 30 acre woodland valley created in around 1826, it enjoys a very mild climate due to its fine sheltered position and has fine views to the Helford Estuary. During the years, many exotic and rare trees and shrubs have been collected and grown here. In Spring camellias, azaleas, magnolias, bluebells, and wildflowers all feature giving beautiful displays and colours.
Dog Friendly on leads, Café. Partial Disabled Access 

Himalayan Sculpture Garden near Ripon, Yorkshire
The Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park is set in 45 acres of woodlands, with gardens and an arboretum, as well as three tranquil lakes. It is home to over 20,000 plants, including what is considered to be the North's largest collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias. Over 90 striking sculptures are set amongst the gardens.
Dog Friendly on leads, Café, Partial Disabled Access. 

Isabella Plantation, Richmond Park, London
Here you will see an amazing kaleidoscope of colour just a few miles from the centre of London. There are many paths amongst 40 acres of lawns and glades, streams and ponds with stunning collections of rhododendrons and azaleas that will take your breath away. The gardens are very busy at weekends and best visited on weekdays.
Dog friendly on leads, Café in Car park. Partial Disabled Access 

Leonardslee Gardens, near Horsham, Sussex
Discover the magnificent and beautiful Grade I listed Leonardslee Gardens set in 240 acres of woodland in Sussex described as 'The Finest Woodland Gardens in England'.
Paths bordered by Azaleas lead you amongst giant Rhododendrons, alongside lakes and by drifts of bluebells. First planted in 1801, the Grade I Listed gardens features outstanding scenery throughout the year, but especially so in May.
Dog Friendly on leads. Restaurant, Café. Partial Disabled Access 

Sherringham Park, Upper Sherringham, Norfolk – National Trust
This is a wonderful Humphrey Repton Landscape with sea views. It has a fine collection of over 80 species of rhododendrons and azaleas best in May and early June, plus woodland and wildlife walks. There is a tower at tree-top height from which you can gain 360° views across the surrounding countryside and over the park.
Dog Friendly on leads, Café. Partial Disabled Access 

For further details of these gardens and over 100 more places to see Rhododendrons click here.