The Elizabethan Gardens
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a stroll along the English gardens much like the nobility of ye olden times? Imagine flowers growing in every bush and paths designed for leisurely walks. Think about romance in every sculpture and fountain and ladies with full frocks and dainty umbrellas.

Well, you don’t have to keep imagining anymore for right in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a garden just waiting to be discovered. The Elizabethan Gardens, as it is aptly called, serves as a living memorial to the first English settlers in America. It boasts of many different varieties of flora and fauna, attracting even serious horticulturists.

As soon as you walk past the entrance, you will immediately realize that the Elizabethan Gardens is no ordinary garden. A gatehouse purposely built to resemble a 16th century orangery greets you from the very moment you choose to enter. Aside from serving as a gift shop, it also boasts of antique furniture dating back to the early 1500’s. You can almost feel the hands of the clock turning back time.

However, don’t let yourself be distracted for too long. The Elizabethan Gardens has more delights in store for you. As you continue walking further, you will notice that the garden is divided into many sections. Some of them include the Shakespearean Herb Garden, the Sunken Garden and the Overlook Terrace. Each section promises a burst of color that is sure to brighten anyone’s day. Many people have also held their weddings here, taking advantage of the lush environment and natural romantic setting. It’s the perfect place for couples to have their “happily-ever-afters.”

In fact, such is the beauty of this garden that Queen herself gave it a sample of Queen Elizabeth Roses—the same roses that grow in the royal gardens of Windsor Castle. And as further homage to the glory of the English royals, a bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth I is also found here. It is said to be the largest bronze statue of the famous Queen in the whole world.

Another extraordinary feature of the Elizabethan Gardens are the sculptures from the Whitney Collection. It doesn’t take an art expert to admire and appreciate the beauty and elegance they give the whole garden.

Don’t get me wrong though… Kids can also have fun with some of the smaller sculptures. There is a mini garden with lots of gnomes and other figures hiding behind some plants. There is even a frog pond where they can enjoy nature all the more. There is most definitely a sense of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland here.

The Elizabethan Gardens is open all year round, seven days a week. Take advantage of this beautiful landscape and plan your trip now! What better place is there to create new memories?

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