As the first blush of spring paints the UK in vibrant hues, Swindon’s Town Gardens has been crowned the nation’s favourite spot for cherry blossom viewing. This delightful news comes from a recent study by travel experts LateRooms.com, which analysed data from Instagram tags and Google searches during the peak of the 2023 cherry blossom season.
The Town Gardens, a verdant oasis nestled in Swindon’s historic Old Town, garnered a staggering 28,740 Google searches for ‘Swindon Town Gardens Cherry Blossom’. The park’s Instagram popularity also soared, with countless photos and tags celebrating its breathtaking beauty. This impressive fan base helped Swindon’s gem outshine other renowned locations, including London’s Greenwich Park and Wavertree Botanic Garden.
The Town Gardens’ victory is not only a win for Swindon but also for the South West, as it was the only park from the region to feature on the list. The park’s allure lies in its stunning Victorian bandstand, a sea of pink petals, and the dedicated efforts of the South Swindon Parish Council. Since taking over the park’s management from Swindon Borough Council in 2019, the Parish Council has invested significantly in restoring the gardens to their former glory, including a £70,000 renovation of the listed garden gates.
Locals have always cherished the Town Gardens, with one resident remarking, “What the parish council have done with the place in recent years is absolutely magnificent, and it really is a little pocket of beauty in Swindon.” The park’s charm and community spirit are evident in the array of events it hosts throughout the year, from the vibrant Holi celebration of colour to the enchanting Christmas lights trail.
As the Town Gardens prepares to celebrate its 130th anniversary in 2024, the summer season promises a line-up of exciting performances. Visitors can look forward to a rendition of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, a comedy night at the Bowl, and a ‘supersonic’ Queen tribute band, among others.
This accolade is a testament to Swindon’s Town Gardens’ enduring appeal and the community’s commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural beauty. So, as the cherry blossoms bloom, why not take a stroll through the UK’s top spot and experience the magic for yourself?
Image credit: Newsquest
