Ladew Topiary Gardens - Monkton, MD

Duration: 1 Day | Monkton, MD | Meals Included: Lunch

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Ladew Topiary Gardens

Recognized by Architectural Digest as one of the “10 Incredible Topiary Gardens Around the World,” Ladew Gardens is far more than a beautifully manicured landscape. It’s a place of delight, imagination, and quiet wonder. Spanning 22 enchanting acres, the gardens reflect the playful spirit and artistic eye of their creator, Harvey S. Ladew. Inspired by his travels through England and a whimsical topiary of hounds chasing a fox, Ladew brought this sense of charm and storytelling to life in America.

 

As you wander through the gardens, expect moments of surprise and joy at every turn, sculpted hedges that spark smiles, vibrant seasonal blooms, soothing fountains, and intimate garden “rooms” that invite reflection. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow, conversations soften, and you can’t help but feel a sense of childlike wonder mixed with refined elegance.

 

Ladew Manor House

Stepping inside the Manor House feels like being welcomed into Harvey S. Ladew’s personal world, a home filled with warmth, wit, and exquisite taste. Originally built in 1749, the house was lovingly transformed into a living legacy that reflects Ladew’s flair for drama, humor, and timeless elegance.

 

Each room tells a story, layered with beautiful antiques, unexpected details, and treasures gathered from Ladew’s travels around the globe. Visitors are especially captivated by the Oval Library, complete with a hidden door, more than 2,500 books, and architectural elements dating back to the 16th century. As you explore, you’ll feel less like a visitor and more like a guest invited to linger, admire, and connect with the personality and creativity of a truly unforgettable host.

 

Meal Information:

 

A boxed lunch is included at the gardens. Choices are:

• Seasonal Berry Salad: A blend of arugula, spinach, and baby field greens topped with seasonal berries, chèvre crumbles, house-made spiced walnuts (served on the side), and a blueberry honey vinaigrette.

• Ladew Chicken Sandwich: Oven-roasted chicken on ciabatta, topped with arugula, brie, roasted garlic schmear, and cranberry-onion marmalade, served with a bag of chips.

Lunch includes a bottle of water and a cookie for dessert.

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Due to the historic nature of the Manor House, a visit requires climbing of stairs.

• The gardens mostly consist of outdoor pathways (gravel, grass, and natural terrain), which means steps and uneven ground may be encountered.

• Every Eyre trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• An Eyre Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

 

Accessibility:

• This tour is not recommended for those who rely on wheelchairs or any other form of mobility assistance.

• Eyre has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.